So it’s no surprise that, as the popularity of the ketogenic diet soared over the past couple of years, keto products began flooding the market – especially over the past year. A keto product recently aired on the hit TV show Shark Tank: entrepreneurs seek funding and partnerships with a panel of these investors, who turn down many pitches on the series. The keto product pitched was a way to speed up and improve ketosis, which would rapidly help people lose weight and be healthy.

Keto on Shark Tank: The Hype vs. Reality

After the episode aired, eager viewers jumped on the keto bandwagon, and there are still plenty of intrigued consumers curious about the benefits of the keto product and excited to see results quickly. But, as with any product that has aired on Shark Tank, a bit more due diligence is essential.

You could be forgiven for not remembering – this is Shark Tank, after all, a television programme. Even if the entrepreneurs had provided the latest research showing the value of the keto diet, and even if they had brought keto success stories before them, it would still be bathed in the light and music of the tube. The sharks aren’t necessarily choosing what they think is the best product (that doesn’t always equate with profitability) but rather the best pitch.

Understanding the Keto Diet

Before you try out any new diet or weight loss product, it is important to have a grip on the principals of the ketogenic diet, also known as the keto diet. This is a low-carb, high-fat diet and eating programme that helps in achieving ketosis, in which the body utilises fat as a source of fuel instead of carbohydrates. By severely reducing intake of carbohydrates in the diet and increasing the fat intake, the body switches gears from a carb-burner to ketone-burner mode, as the liver produces ketones to be used as a fuel.

Although the keto diet has been hailed for its weight loss results and increased energy, its adherence is fairly challenging, not everyone has the stomach for its carb restrictions and the dreaded keto flu, which can manifest as fatigue, dizziness and cravings. Anytime you decide to change your diet drastically, please consult with a health care professional.

The Truth About Keto Products

With that in mind, when you see keto whatever on Shark Tank or any other platform, proceed with caution. Some keto products really could help people (and some people you might know are using them and swearing by them). But others are just hype and marketing. Buyers, do your homework. Read reviews from someone other than the company itself. Ask someone in a white coat.

Just know that there is no magic pill or elixir that can compete with a healthy diet and lifestyle. Eating whole, unprocessed, nutrient-rich foods; moving your body; and getting enough sleep are the cornerstones of any healthful weight-loss strategy. Keto products can be convenient and supportive – but by no means is a shaker bottle of MCT oil a meal or a bar an efficient delivery system for vitamins and energy when you’re on the run.

Final Thoughts on Keto as Showcased on Shark Tank

I hope the example above helps you scan the carefully curated keto landscape. As you read the slick ‘before-and-after weight-loss’ testimonials the next time you visit the Just Keto website, or something like it, keep your genes in mind and realise that, as enticing as promised fat loss might appear, the only sure way to a healthier you is with a sustained and active health-promoting lifestyle that has no beginning and no end. That includes days spent doing synchronised water eggbeater kicks on a paddleboard.

Check out some of our FAQs on the ketogenic diet, Shark Tank and keto merchandise below.

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