The ketogenic diet is a very successful weight loss program. It uses high-fat, low-carb ingredients to burn fat instead of glucose. Many people are familiar with the Atkins diet, but the ketogenic plan further restricts carbohydrates.
Because we’re surrounded by fast food restaurants and processed foods, it can be challenging to avoid high-carb foods, but proper planning can help.
Plan menus and snacks at least a week in advance so you don’t get stuck with only high-carb meal options. Research keto recipes online; there are quite a few good ones to choose from. Immerse yourself in the keto lifestyle, find your favorite recipes and follow them.
There are some elements that are basic in a ketogenic diet. Make sure you have these items on hand:
- eggs – Used in omelettes, quiches (yes, heavy cream is keto legal!), boiled as a snack, low carb pizza crust, and more; if you like eggs, you have a good chance of success with this diet
- Bacon – I need a reason? breakfast, salad side, burger dressing, BLT (no bun, of course; try a BLT in a bowl, mixed with mayonnaise)
- cream cheese – Dozens of recipes, pizza crusts, main dishes, desserts
- Grated cheese – Sprinkle over taco meat in a bowl, turned into tortilla chips in the microwave, salad dressings, low-carb pizza and enchiladas
- A bunch of romaine lettuce and spinach – Fill up with the green vegetables; have enough on hand for a quick salad when hunger strikes
- EZ-Sweetz Liquid Sweetener – Use a couple of drops instead of sugar; this artificial sweetener is the most natural and easy to use I have found
- Cauliflower – Bagged fresh or frozen, you can eat this low-carb veggie plain, tossed in olive oil and baked, mashed into mock potatoes, minced/shredded, and used in place of rice under entrees, on low-carb pizza crusts carbs and keto. and much more
- frozen chicken strips – Have a large bag handy; Quickly thaw and grill, sauté, toss with veggies and top with garlic sauce in a low carb flatbread, use in chicken piccata, chicken alfredo, tacos, enchiladas, Indian butter chicken and more
- Ground beef – Make a big burger and top it with all sorts of things from cheese to sautéed mushrooms to grilled onions… or crumble and cook with taco seasoning and use in tacos with provolone cheese; add a plate with lettuce, avocado, cheese, sour cream for a tortilla-less taco salad
- almonds (Plain or Flavored) – These are a tasty and healthy snack; however, be sure to count as you eat, because carbs DO add up. Flavors include habanero, coconut, salt and vinegar and more.
The keto plan is a versatile and interesting way to lose weight, with many delicious food options. Keep these 10 items stocked in your fridge, freezer, and pantry, and you’ll be ready to whip up delicious keto meals and snacks anytime.