How Years of Eating Keto-Style Helped Me Improve Metabolic and Gut Health
by Carmen Désart
For several years now, I’ve been focused on understanding how the food I eat affects my metabolic health and gut function. I’m not here to promise that any diet can magically restore gut health overnight — that’s simply not realistic. But from my own experience, aligning my eating habits with a ketogenic-style approach has helped me reduce body fat, ease digestive discomfort, and maintain more stable energy throughout the day.
Why a Keto-Style Approach?
Ketosis is a metabolic state—not a trend, brand, or single diet. It simply means your body is efficiently using fat as its primary fuel source instead of glucose. While it's often associated with low-carb or “keto” diets, many dietary patterns—vegan, vegetarian, paleo, carnivore, and others—can be structured to support ketosis.
For me, reaching that metabolic state was the turning point. It wasn’t about adopting a strict food identity—it was about finally giving my body the conditions it needed to heal. That meant embracing nutrient-dense, fat-rich whole foods and letting go of rigid plans that left me inflamed, frustrated, or exhausted.
Over time, I’ve prioritized foods that support both metabolism and gut function, focusing less on labels and more on nourishment. It’s not about fat vs. fiber or carbs vs. protein—it’s about what makes you feel strong, steady, and well.
Foods That Make Up My Daily Meals
Here’s a snapshot of the foods that consistently support my well-being:
Fish – Wild-caught salmon and sardines are staples, rich in omega-3s and high-quality protein to support brain, gut, and heart health.
Nuts – Macadamia nuts and walnuts are my go-to for snacking or blending into meals. They provide healthy fats, minerals, and fiber.
Healthy Oils – Extra virgin olive oil is my primary oil for cooking and finishing dishes. It’s packed with antioxidants and supports cardiovascular health.
Eggs – A versatile, nutrient-dense source of complete protein.
Aged Cheeses – I enjoy Pecorino, Manchego, and Roquefort for their bold flavor, healthy fat, and probiotic benefits.
The Role of Fermented Foods and Daily Vegetables
Fermented foods play a key role in supporting digestion and microbiome balance. Instead of traditional pickles, I regularly include naturally fermented horseradish—a spicy, gut-supportive addition that has worked well for me.
I also rely on fresh greens and low-carb vegetables like spinach, kale, bok choy, and celery. These provide essential nutrients and fiber without interfering with my metabolic goals or requiring supplemental fiber.
What I’ve Experienced Over the Years
Reduced Bloating and Distention – I no longer deal with the gut discomfort and visible bloating I once struggled with daily.
Improved Digestion – Meals feel lighter and easier to digest, without the sluggishness I used to feel.
More Sustained Energy – My energy remains steady throughout the day, without the highs and crashes of higher-carb eating.
Better Body Composition – My body fat has steadily decreased in a way that feels natural and sustainable.
No Quick Fix — Just Lifelong Dedication
This isn’t a quick fix or a “hack.” Improving metabolic and gut health takes patience, consistency, and a deep understanding of your body’s signals.
For me, a ketogenic-inspired approach built around whole foods—like fish, nuts, olive oil, eggs, and fermented horseradish—has been profoundly transformative. It’s not about perfection. It’s about feeling good, living fully, and having the clarity to keep going.
Stay strong,
Carmen