Diet fads come and go. However, there are two in particular that are creating significant buzz. The ketogenic diet or “keto” diet, and the paleo diet or “caveman” diet are having millions of American’s asking themselves which one is better? No right answer works for everyone. It is essential that you choose the diet regimen that will help you stick with it for life. Here are some facts on both diets to help you decide which one is right for you.

 

What Is The Keto Diet?

The keto diet is similar to the Atkins diet where you will consume fat primarily. Dieter’s will consume 70-90% of their calories from fat. The other 10-30% is divided between protein and carbohydrates. By limiting carbs, your body goes into a state of ketosis and burns fat for fuel. It seems counter-productive to consume high amounts of fat on a diet. However, this diet has proven to show results if you can stick with it. Many physicians prescribe the keto diet to treat epilepsy and other disorders.

This doesn’t mean you can consume high-fat foods such as French fries, or ice cream. Many healthy fruits and vegetables are eliminated from the diet if they are high in carbohydrates. During the early stages of the diet, some individuals experience mood swings, dizziness, and extreme fatigue.

 

What Is A Paleo Diet?

The reason people call this the caveman diet is because it mimics the eating style of our prehistoric ancestors. The diet focuses on consuming only unprocessed or whole foods. The menu includes seafood, nuts, grass-fed meat, non-starchy fruit and vegetables, and eggs. You cannot consume potatoes, grains, vegetable oils, and legumes. People love the paleo diet due to the healthy macronutrient balance. Eliminating processed food from your diet can also reduce your risk of disease and improve your overall health. Many people find this diet hard to follow because it can be expensive purchasing grass-fed and organic meat and produce. You are also reducing your consumption of calcium-rich dairy and fiber.

 

What Are The Main Differences?

Paleo is more restrictive when it comes to eating fruit and starchy vegetables. The ketogenic diet requires you to consume a significant amount of healthy fats to turn your body into a fat burning machine. Paleo is more focused on eliminating processed foods and refined carbohydrates.

Before deciding which diet is right for you, it’s best that you consult with a dietician or physician. Your medical history may play a negative or positive role in the foods you can and cannot eat.