Start the keto diet for beginners with this complete 30-day plan. Learn keto macros, foods to eat, how to avoid keto flu, and how to reach ketosis.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many carbs can you eat on keto?
Most people need to stay under 20–50 grams of net carbs per day to enter and maintain ketosis. Strict beginners should aim for under 20g net carbs daily until ketosis is confirmed, then cautiously raise to 50g if needed.
How long does it take to enter ketosis?
Ketosis typically begins within 2–4 days of restricting carbs to under 20–50g per day. The timeline depends on your current glycogen stores, activity level, and individual metabolism. Fasting combined with carb restriction can accelerate the shift to as little as 12–24 hours.
What is the keto flu and how long does it last?
Keto flu is a cluster of temporary symptoms — fatigue, headache, nausea, and muscle cramps — that occur in the first 2–7 days of starting keto. It is caused by electrolyte shifts and glycogen depletion. Staying hydrated and supplementing sodium, potassium, and magnesium can significantly shorten its duration.
What are the best keto macros for beginners?
The standard ketogenic macro split is roughly 70% fat, 20% protein, and 10% carbohydrates. For a 2,000-calorie diet, that translates to about 155g fat, 100g protein, and 50g carbs (or under 20g net carbs).
How much weight can you lose on keto in 30 days?
In the first week, most people lose 2–5 pounds — primarily water weight from glycogen depletion. Over 30 days, a realistic fat-loss target is 4–8 pounds, depending on calorie intake, activity level, and individual metabolism.