There are various reasons why one can want to lose weight and just as many techniques to shed the excess kilos. Out of these, the keto diet is one of the more popular methods individuals tend to opt for. This high-fat, low-carb diet promises to keep your hunger satiated throughout the day and regulate blood sugar levels. The keto diet is based on the principle that when the body does not get carbohydrates to source its energy, it will burn fat to fuel itself. If you’re thinking of following this diet, here are a few keto diet dos and don’ts for you to follow.

• Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables

Without adequate carbohydrate intake, you may face constipation and other gastrointestinal issues. To prevent this from happening, you should eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables to get the required amount of fiber.

• Do not follow this diet if you are at risk of heart disease

A dirty keto diet is rich in proteins and animal fats. This can have a negative effect on cardiovascular health and increase the risk of high cholesterol and hypertension. Thus, if you or if anyone in your family has a history of heart disease, this is not a diet you should follow.

• Maintain your electrolyte levels

One of the important keto diet dos and don’ts is that you should maintain your electrolyte levels. But, this should be done without relying on sugary energy drinks. Chicken broth or bone broth is ideal for this.

• Don’t eat starchy vegetables

Choosing the right vegetables is important with respect to keto diet dos and don’ts. Starchy vegetables such as potatoes, turnips, and carrots should be avoided as far as possible. Eating these vegetables will have the same effect as eating other carbohydrates.

• Look for healthy fats

Not all fats are good for the body. When you follow keto, you should look for healthy fats. This includes extra virgin olive oil, coconut oil, butter, avocadoes and avocado oil, and animal fat from grass-fed animals. This fat will act as a source of energy to help you get through the day. Avoid unhealthy fats like vegetable oil, corn oil, and soybean oil.

• Don’t eat refined sugar

Sugar has zero calories and does no good for your body. Instead, you should use healthier alternatives like honey or stevia.

• Eat home-cooked food

Fast food is not healthy and is packed with preservatives and chemicals. For this reason, it should be avoided as far as possible. Even salads made by fast-food chains use dressings that may have hidden sugars, oils, and tend to use artificial cheeses.

• Don’t eat low-fat foods

You can’t follow a keto diet and a low-fat diet simultaneously. A ketogenic diet is based on high-fat content and depriving your body of them can lead to adverse effects. when on the plan, you should eat full-fat cheeses and full-fat dairy products. Even food like yogurt should be chosen with care.