NEW HAVEN, Conn. (WEHT) – A new study from Yale University has found yet another reason to cut back on the carbs: it may keep you from getting the flu.
Researchers say that a ketogenic diet, which is essentially no carbs and high fat and protein intake, can help overcome the influenza virus.
The “keto,” diet works like this: after eating virtually no carbs for a few days, the human body runs out of blood sugar to use for energy, so instead, it begins burning protein and fat to produce energy.
This metabolic state, called ketosis, can result in fairly rapid weight loss.
According to the study’s authors, a ketogenic diet activates a group of cells found in the lungs.
This activation causes enhanced mucus production among airway cells, making them better equipped to trap the flu virus.
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(This story was originally published on Nov. 19, 2019)