Which Diet is Better Keto or Intermittent Fasting?
When it comes to weight loss, both the keto diet and intermittent fasting are popular strategies. But which one is better? Our expert weighs in with the pros and cons of each diet plan to help you decide which approach is right for you.
Keto vs Intermittent Fasting: The Big Difference
The biggest difference between keto and intermittent fasting is that intermittent fasting diets tell you when you can eat, whereas keto diets focus on what you should eat. With intermittent fasting, you may eat all your meals during a certain window of the day or only a certain number of meals per day. On the other hand, a keto diet requires you to reduce your carb intake and increase your fat intake to achieve a state of ketosis.
The Verdict: Keto and Intermittent Fasting are Both Effective
The verdict? Looks like it’s a tie, because our expert says, “Both the diets will lead to weight loss. But, individually, they are both suitable for different body types and lifestyles.” The typical keto diet normally contains about 70% fat, 20% protein, and only 10% carbs, although some people prefer to go even down to 5% carbs.
Which Diet is Right for You?
Intermittent Fasting and Keto diet are two effective ways to lose weight. However which way is better? Read my in-depth article to find out. The last thing, and the main reason that I recommend intermittent fasting versus the keto diet, is because it’s very, very sustainable. You can follow it for weeks or even months without feeling bored or deprived.
One of the things that also happens towards the end of a fast is that the body produces ketones, similar to a keto diet. Yet, eating a normal diet keeps the body’s metabolic processes running smoothly and helps to prevent the potential side effects of a keto diet such as dizziness, headaches, and fatigue.
Benefits of Intermittent Fasting over Keto Diet
- No need to track macronutrients
- More sustainable in the long-term
- Less restrictive compared to a keto diet
- Good for mental clarity and focus
- Improves digestion
Intermittent fasting is less restrictive than a keto diet, and it doesn’t require you to track macronutrients. It’s also more sustainable in the long-term because it doesn’t require you to drastically change your eating habits. Plus, intermittent fasting has been linked to mental clarity and focus, improved digestion, and even some anti-aging benefits.
Benefits of Keto Diet over Intermittent Fasting
- More rapid weight loss
- Improves insulin sensitivity
- Reduces inflammation
- Provides more energy
- May reduce symptoms of certain chronic diseases
A keto diet may be more effective for rapid weight loss, particularly for those who are overweight or obese. It also helps to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation, and many people report feeling more energetic on the keto diet. Plus, it may reduce symptoms of certain chronic diseases.
The Bottom Line
In the end, the choice between keto and intermittent fasting is a personal one. Both can help you lose weight, but one may be better suited to your lifestyle and body type than the other. Be sure to talk to your doctor before starting any new diet to make sure it’s the right choice for you.
Does intermittent fasting have the same benefits as a ketogenic diet?
Studies have indicated that individuals can observe a decrease in their weight within two to three weeks while they are following a keto diet, while it may take a month or more to see any changes with intermittent fasting. [1,4]
What are the benefits of intermittent fasting compared to the keto diet?
Intermittent fasting may enable your body to enter a state of ketosis faster than relying on the keto diet alone. This is because while fasting, your body preserves its energy balance by shifting its primary source of fuel from carbohydrates to fats – the same concept behind the keto diet (11).
Is it possible to shed pounds by utilizing intermittent fasting without following a ketogenic diet?
Intermittent fasting without the keto diet can be a great way to get your body accustomed to using ketones for energy without having to track your carbohydrate intake. Both intermittent fasting and the keto diet can be effective for weight loss as they both reduce the amount of decision-making and willpower required to stay on track.
Do you think it would be better to begin with a ketogenic diet or intermittent fasting?
Experts such as Fung believe that it is possible to begin both a keto diet and intermittent fasting concurrently. Nonetheless, it is recommended to first do some research and become accustomed to fasting before starting.
If you’re interested in learning more about fasting and how it can help you achieve your health goals, be sure to check out Fasting Books. Our website offers a wide selection of resources including books, guides, and courses that are tailored to fit any lifestyle or dietary preference. Whether you’re new to fasting or a seasoned pro, Fasting Books has everything you need to succeed.
