Intermittent fasting and the ketogenic diet are two of the most popular diets today. There are many similarities between them, but also some important differences you should know about before deciding which one is best for you. Here’s a breakdown of intermittent fasting vs. keto:
Intermittent fasting is a pattern of eating in which you cycle between periods of fasting and eating. Popular types of intermittent fasting include Time-Restricted Eating, the 5:2 diet, and the 16/8 method. On the other hand, the ketogenic diet is a high-fat, moderate protein, low-carb plan that puts your body into a state of ketosis. Both of these diets can help you lose weight, but there are some key differences you need to be aware of before you decide which one is right for you.
Intermittent fasting is more restrictive in that it limits your eating window and doesn’t necessarily control what types of food you should eat. With the keto diet, you’ll have more freedom in the foods you choose because the macronutrient breakdown is most important. The intermittent fasting does not have a set macronutrient breakdown, so it is easier for some people to eat more unhealthy foods, leading to weight gain instead of weight loss. Keto also changes the way your body uses energy, as it forces your body to use fat for energy instead of carbs. This changes your metabolism, and some people find it difficult to transition to a high-fat diet.
In terms of results, intermittent fasting can be more effective if done correctly, as it limits the overall amount of calories consumed per day. However, the keto diet can be beneficial if you’re looking to lose fat, as the high-fat intake helps keep you satiated and may help reduce hunger. Additionally, the keto diet can boost your metabolism even more than intermittent fasting as it lowers insulin levels and can help your body burn fat more efficiently.
In the end, it’s important to find the diet that works best for your lifestyle and goals. Intermittent fasting vs. keto may provide similar results in terms of weight loss, but they require different lifestyles to maintain and there are some clear differences between the two. Consider the pros and cons of both and speak with a doctor before making any major changes to your diet.