What characterizes a ketogenic diet?

A ketogenic diet is characterized primarily by its high-fat and low-carbohydrate approach. This dietary pattern typically emphasizes fat intake, which can make up a significant portion of daily calories, while drastically reducing carbohydrate consumption to induce a metabolic state known as ketosis. In ketosis, the body becomes more efficient at burning fat for energy instead of relying on carbohydrates, which can lead to various health benefits, including weight loss and improved blood sugar control.

The foundation of a ketogenic diet is built on the principle that by limiting carbohydrates, the body will utilize stored fat as its primary energy source. This shift not only affects metabolism but also can influence hunger hormones, often leading to reduced appetite. Additionally, ketogenic diets may include moderate protein intake, but protein levels are not the primary focus compared to fat.

In contrast, the other options do not reflect the defining characteristics of a ketogenic diet, as they propose alternative macronutrient distributions that are not aligned with the typical ketogenic framework.