There is no doubt that a ketogenic diet can be optimal for health, but is now the right time to switch or “get back on the wagon” so to speak….?
Is now a good time to start a keto diet?
KETO DIET AND PROTECTIVE ΓΔT CELL RESPONSES AGAINST INFLUENZA INFECTION
You may have seen this study that has been going around which talks about the influence a ketogenic diet has on protective γδT cell responses against influenza virus infection.
Firstly, this study was done on mice, and it was studied within the influenza virus infection (e.g. flu). Honestly, to say this also applies to the human body is a stretch.
IS NOW A GOOD TIME TO START A KETO DIET?
The stress of changing diets at a time like this is unnecessary.
If you’re already following a ketogenic diet, then, by all means, stick with it.
If you’re wondering if you should start a keto diet, I’d suggest instead focusing on eating real food, not going strictly ketogenic.
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO INSTEAD?
So, what do you do instead? I would suggest going back to basics. This doesn’t have to be a ketogenic diet, this is just about eating real food (if you can). Read more about this HERE
I would also like to bring your attention to your daily step count, which according to this study, a greater number of daily steps is significantly associated with lower all-cause mortality.
The magic number is between 8,000 and 10,000. Anything more might be somewhat beneficial, but ensuring you reach that number (even in isolation) is important.
Here are some key takeaways that you can implement right now to ensure you are best prepared whilst taking it back to basics.
- Eat a simple diet, mostly containing real food
- Turn off TV/phones 1 hour before bedtime
- Eat at caloric maintenance, either by tracking or by using the hunger system.
- Get 10,000 steps any way you can.
- Try not to consume alcohol.
We will all get through this. Remember to practice social distancing where you can. Together we can get through.