Doctor! Doctor! Give Me The News! Do I Have Keto Flu?
Signs, Symptoms & Survival Guide
What is Keto Flu?
After switching to the ketogenic diet, many people experience flu-like symptoms. The keto flu occurs within the first couple of days of ketosis and can vary in length and intensity per individual. The more sedentary the lifestyle prior to starting the ketogenic diet, the more chances of developing keto flu. For those who have a higher metabolism and workout several times a week, their symptoms might be less or even nonexistent.
The term “keto flu” is a bit of a misconception. These symptoms of drowsiness, body aches, nausea, dizziness, carb cravings, and irritability aren’t because of ketones, being in ketosis or the actual flu at all. This is the body’s natural reaction to carbohydrate restriction.
This annoying “faux flu” can discourage those starting the ketogenic diet. Some give up and return to eating carbohydrates to curb the symptoms, which is the complete opposite reaction necessary if you’re interested in following a ketogenic diet. The keto flu symptoms are temporary and disappear once your body adapts to using fat as its new energy source.