The Difference Between the Keto Diet Vs. Paleo

As a in-home personal trainer, I've traditionally encouraged my clients toward a paleo lifestyle as much as possible. But recently, I've been intrigued by the Keto diet and the results some of my clients are seeing with this eating plan.  If you're wondering whether you should make the jump to Keto, read on for an overview of the major differences. 

What is the Keto diet? 

Originally developed to prevent and treat seizures, the keto diet can help you burn fat more efficiently by entering a metabolic state called ketosis. The benefits of keto include dramatic weight loss and improvement of blood sugars for those with Type 2 Diabetes. The diet follows a strict ratio of 75% fat, 20% protein, and 5% carbs. Dieters eliminate carbs and sugars and replace them with healthy fats and sometimes dairy. 

What is the paleo diet? 

The paleo diet, on the other hand, focuses on eating whole, unprocessed foods and is a grain and dairy free eating plan.  Unlike Keto, paleo can provide a more balanced macro nutrient balance with 35 % fat, 35 % carbohydrate and 30 % protein  Paleo focuses on support for digestive gut health and can improve autoimmune conditions, blood sugar imbalances and help with weight loss. 

What are the primary differences between the two eating plans? 

The differences reside in the macro nutrient consumption. Keto tends to be a targeted approach eliminating foods most people crave. From your everyday carbs to some fruits and vegetables, your intake on keto is limited.  

I like to tell my clients that Keto is much more precise (hitting your marks on macros each day), and less forgiving (no cheats or bonus meals!). But is also better for fat loss. Paleo is better for anti-inflammatory (assuming dairy in the keto plan), and I think it is easier to maintain overall. 

So which plan is for you? 

It depends on you! Each plan has benefits for health and weight loss goals. The plan that will work for you is the plan you can stick with. Your eating plan is part of a healthy lifestyle and should be a plan you can maintain for lasting changes. 

Still unsure? Healthy Obsession is here to help.  Contact Adam to get started with in-home personal training.