The ketogenic diet is a nutritional strategy that focuses on high fat intakes, moderate protein intakes, and a low carbohydrate intake. The low intake of carbohydrates simulates a metabolic state that resembles fasting, leading to a higher use of fat as a fuel source. This process produces ketones and gives the diet its name.
Most frequently, the ketogenic diet approach aims for 50 grams of carbohydrates per day (or less) from vegetable sources. Some people might require less than 50 grams to cause ketosis, and other people might be able to consume slightly higher amounts of carbohydrates and still maintain a ketotic state.[1][2]