The Keto Diet: Glycogen Depletion vs. Fat Loss
The Ketogenic (Keto) diet is a high-fat, low-carbohydrate eating style designed to put the body into a state of ketosis, where it burns fat for fuel instead of glucose. When starting a keto diet, people often experience rapid weight loss in the first week. It is important to recognize that this initial drop is primarily water weight released as the body depletes its glycogen stores.
Understanding Keto Weight Dynamics:
- Glycogen Bound Water: Every gram of glycogen in your muscles holds 3 to 4 grams of water. Restricting carbs flushes this water out.
- True Fat Loss: Long-term fat loss on keto still requires a calorie deficit; ketosis does not override thermodynamic laws.
- Satiety Control: High fat and moderate protein intake naturally suppress appetite, making it easier to stick to a deficit.