Yes, you've read that correctly and wasn't supposed to be written as “Keto”. The Mito diet is the newest dietary approach that quickly gained popularity and recognition amongst those trying to maintain a healthy weight while improving their cognitive function. Think of it as a less restrictive and easier-to-follow (and digest) cousin of Keto, where you'll still be focused on protein and fats, but without eating a block of butter for every single meal. Here's what you need to know.
What is the Mito Diet?
First and foremost, let's deal with the basics—Mito stands for mitochondria, the small structures in every cell in our bodies that are considered to be the main fuel that keeps our cells running. Also known as the “energy powerhouse of the cell” mitochondria uses oxygen and nutrients and converts them into a small molecule called adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is the source of cellular energy.
The Mito Diet (also sometimes called the Mito Diet Plan) helps support mitochondrial health and focuses on specific nutritional strategies that optimize their function within each cell. That helps lower inflammation, boosts energy levels, supports cognitive function, and promotes healthy aging.
The Main Principles of the Mito Diet
The Mito Diet consists of specific nutritional pillars that when combined, create a wonderful synergy of health-boosting and longevity-promoting results. Here are the key principles of the Mito Diet:
- Low in carbohydrates and therefore, sugars - Mitochondria favor fat over sugars as fat oxidation generates a greater yield of ATP molecules. This naturally makes the Mito Plan favor healthy fats over carbohydrates. The carbohydrates that are “allowed” must be low on the glycemic index, meaning they have a lower impact on your sugar levels. This helps maintain stable energy and prevent mitochondrial stress.
- Moderate protein intake - as the main building blocks of our body, an adequate amount of protein is extremely important to support muscle mass and mitochondrial health. Going overboard on protein can make your body break it down and turn into sugars, which is why keeping it in moderate amounts is the best way to go.
- Focus on healthy fats - the Mito Diet encourages the intake of high-quality fats such as olive oil, nuts, seeds, and avocados, which are essential for optimal mitochondrial function and the creation of ATP molecules.
- Gluten-free - on top of being low in carbohydrates and sugars, the Mito Diet puts an emphasis on gluten-free grains in order to minimize inflammation. In fact, where possible, it encourages a grain-free approach, which is why it can often be cycled with the Paleo Diet as well.
Benefits of the Mito Diet
The main benefits of the Mito Diet are a direct result of supporting and optimizing mitochondrial health and function:
- Lowered inflammation and oxidative stress throughout the body
- Healthy weight loss
- Improved cognitive function
- Increased energy production
- Improved hormone function
- Increased muscle mass
Difference Between Mito and Keto
Although similar to the popular Keto (or ketogenic) diet, Mito offers a bit more flexibility and less restrictions. It's oftentimes used as an alternative dietary approach for those who struggle with following the Keto diet, but it can also be cycled with it.
The principles of the Keto Diet focus on high amounts of fat, moderate amounts of protein, and really low amounts of carbohydrates so that your body enters the state of ketosis—where it primarily uses fats for fuel. The ketogenic diet is more strict than the Mito Diet and basically forbids most carbohydrates, which makes it hard to sustain for longer periods of time. It has also been a topic of controversy due to its impact on female hormones and reproductivity, which is why it's often recommended to those with severe diseases such as Type 2 diabetes, obesity, and heart disease.
The Mito Food plan includes a broader spectrum of foods and doesn't shy from antioxidant-rich fruit and vegetables. In fact, the Mito diet encourages 8-12 servings, which would take you over the keto-allowed carbohydrate intake per day. This is why it's easier to follow and turn into a lifestyle, rather than a season.
Conclusion
The Mito diet offers a unique approach to supporting your mitochondrial health and promises great results. However, it's important to be aware that individual health needs require a personalized dietary plan. Whether the Mito diet is the right approach for you depends on many factors, so it’s always best to consult with your doctor before jumping on board.
