What characterizes a ketogenic diet?

A ketogenic diet is characterized by its low carbohydrate and high fat content. The principle behind this diet is to shift the body's metabolism away from relying on carbohydrates for energy and instead use fats. When carbohydrate intake is significantly reduced, the body enters a metabolic state known as ketosis. In ketosis, the liver converts fatty acids into ketone bodies, which serve as an alternative energy source for the brain and other tissues.

This dietary approach encourages the consumption of healthy fats such as avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil while drastically limiting sugars and starches found in many foods. The moderate intake of protein is also a key aspect, which helps to maintain muscle mass without spiking insulin levels, a hormone that can hinder fat oxidation.

While the other choices may have some merits in different dietary contexts, they do not capture the defining attributes of a ketogenic diet, which hinges fundamentally on the specific macronutrient distribution of low carbohydrates and high fats.