If you have recently started the keto diet, or are considering it, you may have heard about the keto flu. So, what exactly is the keto flu? What can you do to prevent it or lessen the effects, and how can you can speed up the recovery process.
What is The Keto Flu
The Keto Flu is a term that has been given to describe a feeling of sickness some individuals feel after starting the keto diet. This may start after just a few days of starting the diet.
The most common symptoms experienced are:
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Chills
- Dizziness
As you can see, this is a pretty basic list of “flu like” symptoms. Hence the name keto flu.
What Causes the Keto Flu
No one really knows the exact cause of the “keto flu.” You can find research claiming it is attributed to a general “detox factor” or simply a sugar withdrawal. Then similar research will show it may be attributed to carb withdrawal. I have also read studies showing it could be related to the change in gut microbiome.
Keto Flu Prevention and Recovery
First, although the symptoms are similar to the flu and it shares the name, it is not the actual flu and you do not need to treat it as such. However, if you feel very ill and are concerned about your health, consult with your healthcare provider.
The keto flu is usually short lived and should pass within about a week. This may vary for some. Although there is no magic cure to prevent yourself from experiencing this, there are a few things you can do to help lessen the effects.
- Drink Plenty of Water
- Decrease Your Carb Intake Slowly
- Increase Your Electrolytes
- Add In More Salts and Mineral Rich Foods
- Increase Your Fat Intake
Not everyone will have the same experience. Some people may never even have any symptoms of the keto flu, while others may feel like they are dealing with the worst of it. Just remember why you decided to start on this journey and stick with it, it will get better.
I can tell you from my own personal experience, the health benefits I have gained have far outweighed the week I went through feeling like crud.
If you have had your own experience dealing with the keto flu and want to share what has or hasn’t worked for you, I would love to hear about it in the comments below.
