Experts say there is no question that ketogenic diets work as a means of achieving fast weight loss

Ketogenic diets can also provide the principles for maintaining a healthy shape long term, and be part of a sensible weight loss plan.

Ketogenic diets were originally created for medical purposes to treat epilepsy in children. However, it was soon identified for its ability to help achieve fast weight loss.

The ketogenic diet is high in fat, low in carbohydrates, and is designed to provide adequate protein and calories for a healthy weight.

The essential aim of the diet is to prompt the body to burn fat instead of carbohydrate, which has the effect of fast weight loss.

Some people recoil from the idea of a diet high in fat, as we have come to associate fat with ‘bad’ and ‘unhealthy.’ However, this can be misguiding. Healthy, ‘good’ fats are essential to a nutritious diet.

Ketogenic diets prompt the body to turn to fat for energy, starting the process of ketosis (where the body burns fat.)This happens within a matter of days, resulting in the fast shedding of excess weight.

Ketogenic diets excludes high carbohydrate foods such as starchy fruits and vegetables, bread, pasta and sugar, while increasing high fat foods such as cream and butter.

A typical meal might include fish or chicken with green vegetables, followed by fruit with lots of cream. Breakfast might be bacon and eggs, a snack cheese with cucumber.

In addition to being an effective route to fast weight loss, the principles of the low carb diet can be adopted as part of a healthier lifestyle to maintain a slim shape in the long term.

Part of the success lies in the fact the diet includes delicious meals, no portion control and therefore no sense of being hungry or ‘deprived.’

When the body has adapted to a new lifestyle many find it easier to sustain, as pose to traditional diets which can leave the person feeling resentful and yo-yoing back to old ‘bad habits.’

Those who have introduced ketogenic diets to their weight loss plan often report increased energy levels. They therefore experience improved overall quality of life.