Keto is where the body burns fat instead of other fuels, like carbs (sugar) and alcohol. Those other fuels are easier to break down; and the body will grab them first. So to force the body to burn fat; you have to starve it of carbs & alcohol; so that it doesn't have any choice but to use fat.

It takes 2-3 weeks for the body to switch; but once it does; it runs differently. While you're switching; it's important to be stringent, cut back on carbs as much as possible; and fight the cravings that will continue until it's readjusted.

Once the body has gone into a keto (fat-burning) mode, you can introduce a little low-glycemic carbs (vegetables, a few whole grains, ) - and especially high-protein ones (turkey jerky, beans, nut-based cheese, etc.). And once it's burning fats, it seems to stay in that groove. I can even have a whiskey every couple of weeks.

I try to get as close to 0gm carbs a day while switching over. But once I'm in maintenance, I can stick with it keeping under 50gm carbs a day.

Not only do you have to cut carbs/alcohol; you also have to give it good fats to burn. Note that fats are something you have to have; not something to avoid. I think fats make up 20% of my daily caloric intake. But find what works for you.

I eat "good" fats - I cook with olive oil and eat poultry. Tree nuts, peanuts and coconut rule. Avocados are worth their weight in gold. I do not eat dairy or red meat products, which increase bad cholesterol levels. You can get egg cartons that are made from egg whites - no yolks. (But I do, however, eat whole eggs and mayonnaise - my body processes them well. My cholesterol levels are perfect.)

I also need a lot of protein. This provides amazing energy, by the way.

So that's the hard part. Once I switch to keto, it's embarrassing how easy it is. The cravings go away and I don't miss any of that highly processed, high-glycemic, addictive sugar/flour/carb stuff. The yummy savory stuff is so satisfying. And I feel satiated all the time. I also make things out of almond or coconut milk & flour.

In maintenance, I eat primarily vegies (cauliflower sauted in olive oil with salt is yummy), proteins and oils (nuts, protein powder drinks), rice crackers (I need some starch but limit it), soups, chilis, tunafish or egg salad, etc etc etc.... I keep something like a chicken stew (no starchy vegetables) or chicken patties, or turkey deli meat, etc. in the refrigerator to snack on.