April 13, 2025

“Keto, Paleo, or Intermittent Fasting? Choosing the Right Diet for You”

When it comes to losing weight or simply feeling healthier, the number of diets available can be overwhelming. From Keto to Paleo to Intermittent Fasting, each has its own loyal following and promised benefits. But how do you know which one is right for you?

Let’s break down these popular options and help you make a choice that fits your body, your goals, and your lifestyle.

🥑 The Keto Diet – Low-Carb, High-Fat Power

What it is:
The ketogenic (or keto) diet focuses on drastically reducing carbs and increasing fat intake to put your body into a state called ketosis — where it burns fat for fuel instead of carbs.

Pros:

  • Rapid weight loss (especially in the beginning)
  • Appetite suppression
  • May improve insulin sensitivity


Cons:

  • Can be hard to maintain
  • Initial “keto flu” side effects
  • Not ideal for those with certain medical conditions


Best for:

People who don’t mind cutting out carbs and want quick results — especially helpful for those with insulin resistance.

🍖 The Paleo Diet – Eating Like Our Ancestors

What it is:
Paleo emphasizes whole foods like meats, fish, fruits, veggies, nuts, and seeds — while cutting out processed foods, grains, dairy, and legumes.

Pros:

  • Focuses on nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory foods
  • Naturally reduces sugar and processed food intake
  • Often improves digestion and energy


Cons:

  • Can be restrictive
  • May be harder for vegetarians or vegans
  • Eliminates food groups that some people tolerate well


Best for:

Those who want to eat “clean” and whole without tracking macros — and are okay with avoiding grains and dairy.

⏰ Intermittent Fasting – When You Eat Matters

What it is:
Rather than focusing on what you eat, intermittent fasting (IF) focuses on when. Popular methods include the 16:8 (16 hours fasting, 8-hour eating window) or 5:2 (eating normally 5 days, cutting calories drastically for 2).

Pros:

  • No need to count calories
  • May support fat loss and metabolism
  • Flexible with what foods you eat


Cons:

  • Hunger during fasting periods
  • Not ideal for everyone (especially those with blood sugar issues)
  • May require adjustment to energy levels


Best for:

People with busy schedules who prefer structure and can handle short-term fasting periods.

🧠 So... Which One Is Right for You?

It depends on a few key questions:

  • Do you prefer structure or flexibility?
  • Can you handle carb restrictions, or do you thrive on balance?
  • Are you looking for quick results or long-term lifestyle changes?
  • Do you have any health conditions that may be impacted?

Bottom Line: The Best Diet Is One You Can Stick To

At Cornerstone, we believe in personalized health solutions — no one-size-fits-all approach here. Whether you’re looking to burn fat, gain energy, or simply feel better in your own skin, our team can help you find the right path forward.

📞 Book a consultation today and let’s build a plan that works for you.

Written By

Pamela Davis

DNP, APRN, FNP-BC