The Energy Blueprint Podcast Why Keto Works for Weight Loss But Fails for Performance with Dr. Mike T. Nelson
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Aug 23, 2025 Dr. Mike T. Nelson, a health science expert and exercise physiology guru, tackles common misconceptions about the ketogenic diet. He reveals why keto may hinder athletic performance, noting it can reduce power output by up to 8%. The discussion unearths the myth that Inuit populations were in ketosis and underscores the importance of metabolic flexibility over strict dieting. With insights on exogenous ketones and their cognitive benefits, Dr. Nelson provides a nuanced perspective that challenges trendy diet beliefs and emphasizes personalized nutrition approaches.
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What 'Keto' Actually Means
- A ketogenic diet is very low carb (≈<50 g/day), high fat, and low-to-moderate protein to raise blood ketones to ~0.5 mmol.
- Ketones (mainly β-hydroxybutyrate) act as efficient brain and muscle fuels produced when insulin is low.
Medical Roots And Safety Record
- Ketogenic diets were first used clinically for epilepsy and reliably reduce seizures in many patients.
- That long safety record partly explains modern interest and clinical acceptance of ketogenic therapy.
Why Keto Became Viral
- Keto's popularity grew because it suppresses appetite and allowed people to 'eat fat' while losing weight.
- Early dramatic water-weight loss (glycogen depletion) magnified perceived rapid results.