Feb 12, 2018
If you have questions about the Keto diet...go no further. Our guest today is pretty much the Keto science guy. Dr Dominic D'Agostino is a professor in molecular pharmacology and physiology at the University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine as well as a Visiting Research Scientist at the Florida Institute for Human and Machine Cognition.
Dr D'Agostino tells us how he found his way into the filed of ketosis. He combined interests in nutritional and neuro sciences. From there, Dom developed a deep expertise in underwater medicine and oxygen toxicity seizures where he made the connection with ketones and the brain.
What is Nutrtional Ketosis
Ketones - more specifically ketone bodies- are chemical produced by our livers. Ketone bodies are produced by avoiding most carbohydrates in the diet (eg sugars, breads, fruits, and certain vegetables). A much higher percentage of healthy fats are eaten during a ketogenic diet. When someone follows this diet the body begins to make and utilize ketones more so than on it's typical energy source - glucose. Nutritional ketosis is the sustained elevation of ketones in the blood. To be clear, as long as someone isn't completely lacking insulin (eg Type 1 diabetic), this low-level of ketosis is NOT the dangerous state of ketoacidosis which develops from having a lack of insulin.
What are the benefits of Nutritional Ketosis
Lower states of brain inflammation. Better insulin sensitization and use of ketones for energy in the brain.
What are good foods to stay on the Ketogenic
How Do I know if I am "in Ketosis"
There are a few things you can buy. Dr D'Agostino recommends: