Ultimate List of Keto Foods
Let me start off by saying that I’ve been there, done that, and got the too-tight t-shirt to prove it.
A few years ago, I was so lost when it came to choosing the right diet for me. I’d heard so many amazing things about the ketogenic (or keto) diet, but I was frankly overwhelmed by all the info out there.
How do I start?
What can I eat?
I really give up pasta and bread?
But now, having lived the keto lifestyle for a while, I can confidently say that it’s been great for me, and I’ll never go back to my carb-heavy ways again!
I’m so glad I switched and finally took that leap of faith.
Let’s begin by diving into a little background about the keto diet, how it works, and why I (and loads of other folks) swear by it!!
Why I Chose the Keto Diet
To be completely honest with you, my initial motivation for trying out the keto diet was to lose weight. I’d tried so many fad diets before that I didn’t even believe it would work. But then something happened.
Not only did I start shedding pounds, but I also noticed that my energy levels skyrocketed, my skin cleared up, and I felt happier and more focused!
The best part is, I didn’t starve myself or deprive myself of delicious food. Can you believe it? I certainly didn’t. So, I knew I had to share this life-changing experience with all of you, in the hopes that it would help you too!
The Keto Diet Basics: What You Need to Know
Before I reveal my ultimate list of keto-approved foods, let’s go back to the basics for a moment: What is the ketogenic diet?
In a nutshell, the ketogenic diet is a high-fat, low-carb eating plan that makes your body burn fat for fuel instead of carbs.
When your body no longer has enough carbs to burn, it’s forced to convert your fat stores into special molecules called ketones.
This metabolic state known as ketosis is what makes it happen!
My Ultimate List of Keto Foods
Now that’s out of the way, let’s get to the good stuff. Here’s my personal list of keto-approved foods that have made my journey successful, enjoyable, and downright delicious!
Protein
Just to give you a heads up: on the keto diet, you’ll eat moderate protein. Here are some keto-friendly protein options:
- Fatty cuts of meat (like ribeye, bacon, and pork belly)
- Poultry (chicken thighs, duck, and turkey)
- Seafood (salmon, mackerel, sardines, and shrimp)
- Eggs (farm-fresh is the way to go, people!)
- Dairy (cheese, cottage cheese, and Greek yogurt)
Fats & Oils
As the central component of the keto diet, you’ll need plenty of healthy fats.
You might gasp, but yes, fat is your friend. Reach out for butter, ghee, coconut oil, olive oil, avocado oil, and MCT oil (for an extra energy boost!).
- Coconut oil
- Olive oil
- Avocado oil
- Grass-fed butter
- Ghee
- Nuts and seeds
Low-Carb Vegetables
Remember, not all veggies are low-carb! I learned this the hard way. Go for leafy greens like spinach, kale, collards, or cruciferous veggies like broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts.
- Leafy greens (spinach, kale, arugula)
- Broccoli
- Cauliflower
- Asparagus
- Cabbage
- Zucchini
- Bell peppers
Dairy
- Heavy cream
- Full-fat yogurt
- Cheese (hard and soft varieties)
- Cottage cheese (in moderation)
Low-Carb Sweeteners
- Erythritol
- Stevia
- Monk fruit
Nuts & Seeds
Power-packed with nutrients and healthy fats, options like almonds, pecans, walnuts, chia seeds, and flax seeds are a big yes in the keto diet. They’re great for snacking or adding to recipes for that extra crunch and nutrition.
- Almonds
- Pecans
- Walnuts
- Chia seeds
- Flax seeds
Berries: Surprisingly, some berries are low in carbs and fit into the keto diet. They’re my go-to for when I need something sweet.
- Strawberries (in moderation)
- Raspberries
- Blackberries
- Blueberries (in small amounts)
- Beverages: Staying hydrated is key, and there are plenty of keto-friendly options.
- Water (infused with lemon or cucumber for flavor)
- Unsweetened almond milk
- Bone broth
- Black coffee
- Herbal teas
Spices and Condiments
Flavor is essential, and thankfully, many spices and condiments are keto-friendly. Just watch out for added sugars!
- Himalayan pink salt
- Black pepper
- Cinnamon
- Turmeric
- Fresh herbs (like basil, cilantro, parsley)
- Mayonnaise (made with avocado oil)
- Mustard
- Apple cider vinegar
Dealing with Carb Cravings
One of the biggest challenges I faced was dealing with carb cravings. It’s tough, especially in the beginning. But here’s what worked for me:
Find keto-friendly substitutes for your favorite carbs. Cauliflower rice was a lifesaver when I was missing rice, and zucchini noodles (zoodles) are a fantastic pasta alternative.
Snack on high-fat foods. A handful of nuts or a slice of cheese can help keep those cravings at bay.
Stay hydrated. Sometimes, what feels like hunger is actually thirst.
Give it time. Your body needs to adjust to the new way of eating, and it gets easier.
The Benefits I Experienced
Since adopting the keto lifestyle, I’ve experienced so many benefits:
- Weight loss without feeling deprived
- Increased energy levels
- Clearer skin
- Better mental clarity
- Improved digestion
- And let’s not forget the satisfaction of eating delicious, high-fat foods!
Final Thoughts
Embarking on the keto journey has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. It’s not just about weight loss; it’s about feeling better in every aspect of life.
If you’re considering the keto diet, I hope my journey and these tips inspire and guide you. Remember, everyone’s body is different, so it’s important to find what works for you.
Have you tried any of these keto-approved foods?
Do you have any keto hacks or recipes you swear by? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Let’s make healthy living delicious and fun!
