Finally, a Dietitian Answers *All* of Our Questions About Keto—and If It’s Worth the Hype

Got questions about keto? This video has all the answers.

If there's anything more consistently controversial than a new Kardashian product launch, it's the ketogenic diet. The trendy high-fat, low-carb diet blew up in 2018, and it continues to inform all kinds of new products (hello, MCT oil everything) while dominating the wellness conversation.

However, for every doctor, biohacker, and celebrity who swears by the keto diet for healthy weight management, increased energy, and mental clarity, you'll find an equal amount of skeptics (from acupuncturists to registered dietitians) who argue that the eating plan is overly restrictive without a ton of compelling research to support its supposed benefits. So... what is everyone freaking out over exactly? We asked our favorite nutrition expert, Tracy Lockwood Beckerman, RD, to break it all down for us in the latest episode of You Versus Food.

"The purpose of this diet is to switch our bodies from using its preferred fuel source, carbohydrates, to using fat for energy," says Beckerman. This is achieved by sticking to very precise macros (lots of fat, moderate amounts of protein, and minimal carbs), which kicks your body ketosis, a metabolic state where fats are broken down into compounds called ketones that can be used for energy. Advocates argue that this unique metabolic state is responsible for the eating plan's benefits.

As for whether the buzzy diet lives up to its lofty promises or not... well, you'll have to watch the video to get Beckerman's full analysis. But it's safe to say you'll probably want to talk to a trusted health expert before drinking the (sugar-free, low-carb) Kool-Aid.

Keto not quite your thing? Here's what to know about the Paleo and Mediterranean diets.