The keto diet is a high fat, moderate protein, and low carb diet. If you’re thinking about transitioning to it, read this blog: it will give you all the information you need to know about the keto diet, and whether or not it’s right for you! What that blog doesn’t cover, though, is a common side effect of the diet: the keto flu.
The Keto Flu
As a result of switching from a high-carb diet to a low-carb diet, many individuals have reported experiencing what is known as “the keto flu”. This can result in flu-like symptoms such as:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Headache
- Irritability
- Dizziness
- Poor concentration
- Sugar cravings
The keto flu usually shows up within the first few days of the diet, and lasts for about a week. In extreme cases it’s been shown to last 1 month, but that’s quite uncommon! The good news is that there are some tricks to get rid of it faster.
- Drink water. Make sure you stay hydrated!
- Reduce your caffeine intake. Cut back on coffee during the keto flu and try and switch to tea.
- Replace your electrolytes. Focus on upping your salt, potassium and magnesium intake. Try sipping broths.
- Make sure you eat enough fats!
- Light exercise. Don’t go to a HIIT class or anything, but try some gentle exercise like a walk or easy yoga class.
Bottom line: don’t be discouraged by the keto flu — it will pass! And these tips and tricks should speed up the process and make it more manageable. Once it goes away, you can go back to enjoying your new diet.
If you’re looking for some tasty keto recipes, be sure to try out our Chocolate Avocado Keto Chia Pudding, Creamy Keto Cauliflower Dip, or our Easy Homemade Keto Vegan Seed Crackers!