Keto Shoping List For Beginners
Congratulations on starting your journey toward a healthier lifestyle with the keto diet! Whether you’re aiming to lose weight, improve mental clarity, or reduce inflammation in your body, the keto diet offers many benefits. However, making the transition can be confusing and overwhelming, especially when it comes to grocery shopping. Knowing what foods to buy and which ones to avoid is crucial for success on this high-fat, low-carb diet. In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive keto shopping guide for beginners to help make your next grocery shopping trip easier and stress-free. You’ll find tips for understanding the ketogenic diet, creating a shopping list, meal planning, and prepping, reading nutrition labels, and identifying keto-friendly options in every food group!
You can Grab this one right from Canva no email required. If you don’t have an account You can get one here.
- Understanding the Keto Diet
- Shopping Tips for Keto Beginners
- Creating a Keto Shopping List
- Meal Planning and Prepping on Keto
- Reading Nutrition Labels for Keto
- Keto-Friendly Proteins
- Low-Carb Vegetables and Fruits
- Dairy Products for Keto
- Keto-Friendly Oils and Fats
- Nuts, Seeds, and Nut Butters
- Low-Carb Baking Essentials
- Keto-Friendly Snacks
- Beverages for Keto
- Other Keto-Friendly Pantry Staples
- Before You Go
- You Might Also Like
Understanding the Keto Diet
The ketogenic diet is a low-carb, high-fat diet that puts your body into a metabolic state called ketosis. When following this diet, your body breaks down fat into molecules called ketones and uses them as its primary source of energy instead of glucose from carbohydrates.
How the Keto Diet Works
By restricting your carbohydrate intake to 20-50 grams per day, your body begins to produce ketones for energy instead of relying on glucose from carbohydrates. This metabolic shift leads to increased fat-burning and weight loss.
Benefits and Potential Drawbacks of the Keto Diet
Benefits of the Keto Diet | Potential Drawbacks of the Keto Diet |
---|---|
1. Rapid weight loss | 1. May cause nutrient deficiencies |
2. Reduced inflammation | 2. Can lead to bad breath |
3. Regulated blood sugar levels | 3. Difficult to follow and sustain |
4. Increased energy and focus | 4. May increase cholesterol levels |
5. Reduced risk of certain cancers | 5. May cause gastrointestinal issues |
Shopping Tips for Keto Beginners
As a new keto dieter, starting your shopping journey can be a bit intimidating. Rest easy! We’ve compiled some tips to help you navigate the grocery aisle with ease and confidence.
Make A List And Stick To It
Before heading out to the store, take time to prepare a list of keto-friendly foods you intend to purchase. Make sure your list includes all necessary ingredients for your meals and snacks throughout the week. Following a well-organized list will save you potential stress and last-minute purchases.
Shop The Perimeter Of The Grocery Store
Did you know that the freshest produce is located around the perimeter of the store? By sticking to this section, you can easily find high-quality fruits, vegetables, meats, eggs and dairy products that are low-carb friendly. Avoid going down aisles rich in processed foods like granola bars or sugary cereals which tend not to fit into your diet plan.
Buy In Bulk
Buying in bulk has many advantages such as lower costs and less packaging waste. Additionally, Keto-friendly staples like nuts or meat work excellently when purchased in large quantities since they keep well both frozen and refrigerated. Stocking up on go-to items means having everything on hand when it’s time to cook dinner or whip up breakfast smoothies.
Check Nutrition Labels
Nutrition labels are an essential tool for ensuring what you’re buying aligns with your dietary goals. Scan them carefully checking for total carbs per serving size while also keeping an eye open for hidden sugar sources such as dextrose or maltodextrin. Moreover, comparing nutrition information from different brands of similar items may reveal huge differences in terms of nutrient values.
Choose Fresh Over Processed Foods
While packaged goods may be convenient for busy times, it’s best to incorporate plenty of fresh whole foods into your Keto diet plan instead of relying too much on processed options. Getting clean wholesome vegetables, fruits, nuts, and meats as much as possible not only maximizes your vitamin consumption but also gives you variety for cooking something new.
By following these tips, you’re equipped with the necessary tools to master a keto-friendly shopping spree. Next let’s dive into creating a comprehensive Keto shopping list that will make meeting your dietary needs even more manageable.
Creating a Keto Shopping List
Are you new to the keto diet and feeling lost at the grocery store? You don’t have to be! Having a keto shopping list can make all the difference in keeping you on track with your dietary goals.
Benefits of Having a Keto Shopping List
Why is having a keto shopping list so important? For starters, it saves time and minimizes stress by taking the guesswork out of what to buy at the supermarket. Additionally, it helps you avoid temptation by sticking to only keto-friendly foods that align with your dietary restrictions.
How to Make a Keto Shopping List
Making a keto shopping list may sound overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! It’s as simple as breaking down your meals into categories such as proteins, vegetables, fruits, dairy, oils/fats, nuts/seeds/nut butter, and beverages. From there, consider which specific items fit within your dietary restrictions and add them to your list.
Additionally, try incorporating batch cooking or meal-prepping ideas into the mix so that you can save time during the week by having meals pre-made ahead of time.
Tips for Sticking to Your Keto Shopping List
Now that you have your keto shopping list completed how do you stick to it while at the store? Here are some tips:
- Grab any necessary meats and proteins last since they typically need refrigeration.
- Shop primarily around the perimeter of the store where fresh produce and perishable products are located.
- Check nutrition labels carefully before purchasing an item – if it contains added sugar or refined carbohydrates then it’s best left off your shopping cart.
- Avoid impulse buying by sticking strictly to only items on your prepared list.
- Buy in bulk when possible (especially for nuts/seeds).
With practice, following these tips will become second nature resulting in less wasted money on unnecessary items or cheating on your diet.
Now that you have your list all made out it’s time to talk about meal planning and prepping on keto so that you can create healthy delicious meals with the items on your keto shopping list!
Meal Planning and Prepping on Keto
If you’re looking to stay on track and stick to your keto diet, planning is key. Meal planning and prepping can save you time, money, and sanity! Having healthy meals ready to go means you’ll be more likely to make healthier choices even on the busiest of days.
Benefits of meal planning and prepping
Meal planning and prepping can help you:
- Save time during the week by having meals ready-made
- Reduce stress around meal times
- Stay on track with your keto goals
- Save money by reducing food waste
- Make healthier choices
Creating a meal plan
When creating a keto-friendly meal plan, think about the macronutrient ratios: 70% fat, 25% protein, and 5% carbs. Plan out meals that fit these ratios while also incorporating a variety of foods so that you don’t get bored.
Some tips for creating a successful meal plan include:
- Pick one day per week to create your plan: Set aside some time every week to make your grocery list, decide on recipes, and prep ingredients ahead of time.
- Focus on simplicity: Choose recipes that are easy to prepare in bulk, such as soups or casseroles.
- Have a backup plan: Life happens! Have some quick grab-and-go meal options available for when things get hectic.
Batch cooking and freezing meals
Batch cooking is an excellent way to save time during the week since it allows you to prepare several meals at once. Simply cook up a big batch of your favorite keto-friendly recipe (such as chili or baked chicken thighs) and portion it out into individual servings for the week ahead. You can also freeze any leftovers for future use.
Prepping snacks and breakfasts
Snacks tend to be where many people slip up when it comes to sticking with their diet goals. By prepping some healthy, keto-friendly snacks ahead of time, you can avoid this common pitfall. Some easy snack ideas include:
- Hard-boiled eggs
- Cheese cubes
- Celery sticks with almond butter
- Jerky or beef sticks
- Nuts and seeds
Breakfasts can also be prepped in advance to save time during busy mornings. Make a big batch of keto muffins or egg cups over the weekend and store them in the fridge or freezer for a quick and easy breakfast.
Meal planning and prepping is an essential part of any successful keto diet. Taking the time to plan out your meals ahead of time will help you stay on track with your goals and make healthier choices throughout the week. In the next section, we’ll dive into reading nutrition labels for keto so you can make more informed choices while grocery shopping.
Reading Nutrition Labels for Keto
Congratulations! You’re on the path to a healthier lifestyle with the ketogenic diet. One important aspect of this diet is making sure you’re consuming low-carb foods, and that means reading nutrition labels like a pro. Here’s how you can do that:
Importance of Reading Nutrition Labels
Reading nutrition labels will help you keep track of your daily intake of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, which are essential nutrients in any diet – especially the keto diet. You’ll also be able to spot hidden sugars and other high-carb ingredients lurking in packaged foods.
How to Read Nutrition Labels for Keto
When reading nutrition labels, focus mainly on the “Total Carbohydrates” section. Look at both the absolute value and the % Daily Value (%DV). Aim for 20-30 grams or fewer net carbs per day (total carbs minus fiber).
Also, note that some products might have added sugar as an ingredient but may not list it directly as sugar. Instead, look for ingredients such as dextrose (glucose), maltodextrin, corn syrup solids, or fructose.
Lastly, it’s important to remember to check portion size so that multiple servings don’t lead to unexpectedly high carb intake.
Understanding Net Carbs and Other Important Metrics
Net carbs are total carbohydrates minus fiber minus certain types of sugar alcohols that don’t affect blood sugar levels much. Because they’re digested differently from regular carbohydrates products can use “net” carbs as a food marketing tactic so make sure to check what kind of sweeteners each product uses before incorporating them into your diet.
Be mindful of protein too; eating too much protein can cause gluconeogenesis – when carbohydrates are produced from protein instead which is counterproductive when following a low-carbohydrate eating pattern like Keto.
Common Ingredients to Avoid on Keto
Some common ingredients found in processed foods need careful attention while shopping. Know which ingredients to avoid, such as:
- Sugar
- High fructose corn syrup
- Wheat flour
- Corn starch
- Soy or vegetable oils
And now you’re ready to rock your keto diet with confidence! Keep reading labels and keep an eye out for sneaky carbs, while also enjoying delicious and nutritious low-carb foods.
In the next section, we’ll explore various Keto-friendly proteins that can help you meet your daily protein goals without surpassing your limited carbohydrate intake.
Keto-Friendly Proteins
When you’re following a keto diet, it’s essential to make sure that you’re consuming enough protein to maintain your muscle mass and overall health. Luckily, there are plenty of keto-friendly protein sources that are healthy and delicious!
Meat
Meat is a great source of protein on the keto diet. When choosing meat, opt for grass-fed meats which contain higher amounts of omega-3 fatty acids than their grain-fed counterparts. Some examples of keto-friendly meats include:
- Beef (steak, ground beef)
- Lamb (chops, ground lamb)
- Pork (chops, bacon)
- Organ Meats (liver, kidneys)
Some of the best cuts of beef include:
Cut | Calories | Fat (g) | Protein (g) | Net Carbs (g) |
---|---|---|---|---|
Ribeye | 330 | 27 | 23 | 0 |
Sirloin | 240 | 15 | 25 | 0 |
Chuck Roast | 250 | 19 | 20 | 0 |
Ground Beef | 300 | 24 | 21 | 0 |
Flank Steak | 220 | 14 | 22 | 0 |
Poultry
Chicken and turkey are excellent sources of lean protein on the keto diet. Skinless cuts are ideal as they’re lower in calories and saturated fat.
Fish and Seafood
Fish and seafood are packed with healthy fats like omega-3s that provide numerous health benefits such as reducing inflammation in the body. They also contain high-quality and readily absorbable proteins essential for building strong muscles.
Some examples include:
- Salmon
- Tuna
- Shrimp
- Crab
Eggs
Eggs pack an incredible amount of nutrition into a small package – they’re rich in vitamins and minerals like choline that aid brain development. They’re also very versatile; scrambled eggs can serve as breakfast while boiled eggs can be eaten as snacks.
Plant-Based Proteins
While animal products contain complete proteins, plant-based foods have a variety of essential amino acids which play vital roles in ensuring optimal bodily functions.
These include:
- Nuts & Seeds such as almonds or chia seeds.
- Legumes like lentils or back beans.
With so many options available choosing from any one of these sources is easy when preparing meals on the keto diet! Up next we’ll introduce some Low-Carb Vegetables and Fruits that’ll be useful to anyone new to keto.
Low-Carb Vegetables and Fruits
Are you a veggie lover but worried about maintaining your low-carb diet? Fear not, because there are plenty of veggies and fruits that fit the bill! These low-carb options will provide fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to keep you healthy and satisfied.
Leafy Greens
Leafy greens are packed with nutrients and fiber while being extremely low in carbs. Spinach, kale, lettuce, chard, arugula – all of these delicious greens can be used in salads, smoothies or cooked dishes. And let’s not forget about the “superhero” of greens – spinach! Just one cup of raw spinach provides seven times your daily value of vitamin K, along with vitamins A, C, E, and folate.
Cruciferous Vegetables
Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts are not only low in carbs but also high in nutrition. They contain compounds called sulforaphane which act as powerful antioxidants. Broccoli is especially beneficial due to its high fiber content providing just 4 grams of net carb per serving (1 cup).
Other Low-Carb Vegetables
There are also plenty of other types of vegetables that can help you stick to your low-carb goals. Zucchini (3 grams net carb), mushrooms (2 grams net carb), bell peppers(4-6 grams net carb), and cucumber (2-3 grams net carb) are all great choices for adding variety without breaking the bank.
Berries and Avocado
When it comes to fruit consumption on a keto or low-carbohydrate lifestyle it’s important to be mindful since most fruits tend to come loaded with sugar.
However, there’s some good news -Berries such as:
- Strawberries (2 grams net carb)
- Raspberries(5-6 grams net carb )
- Blackberries(5-7 grams)
- Blueberries (9–12 grams net carbs)
- And raw avocado (1.5 grams net carb per 100g)
are relatively low in carbohydrates compared to other fruits. Berries can be added to smoothies, salads, and even desserts.
There are many options for incorporating nutritious and delicious low-carb vegetables and fruits into your diet. You’ll get all the great health benefits without sacrificing flavor! But remember always measure your servings so you don’t go over your carb limits. Next – Let’s talk cheese!
Dairy Products for Keto
Are you a cheese lover? Good news, you don’t have to give it up on the keto diet! Many dairy products are low in carbs and high in fat, making them a perfect addition to your keto shopping list. Here are some options to consider:
Butter and Ghee
Butter is a staple in many kitchens, but did you know that ghee (clarified butter) is also an excellent option for keto? Both are high in fat and low in carbs, making them perfect for cooking or spreading on veggies.
Heavy Cream and Sour Cream
Heavy cream can be used as a substitute for milk in many recipes to keep things creamy without adding too many carbs. And sour cream is an excellent topping for eggs or baked goods!
Cheese
If there’s one thing that people worry about missing out on when starting keto, it’s cheese. But lucky for us, most cheeses are low-carb! From cheddar to Brie, the options are endless.
Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt is higher in protein than regular yogurt and is a great addition to smoothies or as a base for dips.
Keep in mind that while dairy products can fit into a keto diet, they should be consumed in moderation as they can add up quickly when it comes to calories. Also, make sure to choose full-fat options instead of reduced fat as they often contain added sugar.
Now that you know all about dairy products for keto, let’s move onto our next section: “Keto-Friendly Oils and Fats”.
Keto-Friendly Oils and Fats
On a keto diet, it’s essential to get your fat intake right. Fats are a significant source of energy for your body and play an important role in keeping you full and satisfied. As such, it’s critical to use oils and fats that are keto-friendly.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a favorite on the keto diet because it contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). MCTs are rapidly absorbed by the body, making them quick energy sources. Coconut oil is also rich in lauric acid, which has antibacterial and antiviral properties. Use coconut oil for frying or as a dairy-free substitute for butter.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is another excellent option for getting healthy fats into your keto diet. It’s high in monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), which have been shown to reduce inflammation and lower blood pressure levels. Use extra virgin olive oil as a salad dressing or in cooking low-heat dishes.
Avocado Oil
Avocado oil is ideal for high-heat cooking since it has a neutral taste, high smoke point, and unique ratio of monounsaturated to polyunsaturated fats, making it incredibly healthy. The oleic acid found in avocado oil contributes greatly to cardiovascular health by reducing inflammation and improving cholesterol levels.
MCT Oil
Medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil is extracted from coconut or palm kernel oil but is more concentrated in MCTs than these sources are themselves. MCT increases ketone production leading to higher energy availability and enhancing mental clarity or cognition during physical activity among other benefits which make MCT perfect for athletes requiring higher energy expenditure or people engaging in intermittent fasting.
Other Keto-Friendly Fats
Other healthy oils include walnut oil known for its anti-inflammatory omega-3 content that helps protect against heart disease; macadamia nut oil with its high concentration of monounsaturated fatty acids; and ghee, or clarified butter, which is ideal for cooking with its high smoke point and intense flavor.
When choosing oils and fats to include in your keto diet always opt for those that are organic, unrefined, cold-pressed, and not hydrogenated. These healthy oils have immense health benefits beyond their contribution to achieving ketosis.
Up next let’s explore a variety of savory nuts that will keep your taste buds satisfied while remaining within the boundaries of the keto diet.
Nuts, Seeds, and Nut Butters
Are you a fan of nuts and seeds? Then you’re in luck – they’re perfect for the keto diet! Nuts, seeds, and nut butter are incredibly versatile ingredients that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. Plus, they’re packed with healthy fats, protein, and fiber to keep you feeling full and satisfied. So let’s dive in!
Type of Nut/Seed | Serving Size (1 oz) | Net Carbs |
---|---|---|
Almonds | 24 nuts | 3g |
Walnuts | 14 Halves | 2g |
Macadamia nuts | 10-12 nuts | 2g |
Chi Seeds | 2 Tabelspoons | 1g |
Flaxseeds | 2 Tabelspoons | <1g |
Nuts
Nuts are a great source of healthy fats and protein. Here are some keto-friendly nuts you can add to your shopping list:
- Almonds: Whether raw or roasted, almonds are a great snack option. They also work well as a crunchy topping for salads.
- Walnuts: High in omega-3 fatty acids, walnuts make a great addition to any keto meal.
- Macadamia nuts: These rich and buttery nuts are high in healthy fats and low in carbs.
Seeds
Seeds offer similar health benefits to nuts and can be easily incorporated into your meals. Here are some keto-friendly options:
- Chia seeds: Rich in omega-3s, chia seeds can be added to smoothies or used as an egg substitute in baking.
- Flaxseeds: Another great source of healthy fats, flaxseeds can be ground up into flour for low-carb baking or sprinkled on top of yogurt.
Nut Butters
Nut butter adds creaminess and flavor to many dishes while also providing healthy fats:
- Almond Butter: A delicious alternative to peanut butter that is perfect for spreading on celery or incorporating into baked goods.
- Sunflower Seed Butter: A nut-free option that works well with both sweet and savory flavor profiles.
Now that you’ve got some ideas for incorporating nuts, seeds & nut butter into your diet let’s look at some low-carb baking essentials
Low-Carb Baking Essentials
Are you a baking enthusiast who’s worried about your low-carb diet? Don’t fret! With these low-carb baking essentials, you can still enjoy delicious baked goods without compromising your keto goals.
1. Almond Flour
Almond flour is a versatile ingredient that can be used in various recipes from bread to cakes to cookies. It’s rich in healthy fats and protein but contains fewer carbs than regular flour. It has a slightly nutty taste and delicate texture, making it perfect for baking.
2. Coconut Flour
Coconut flour is another excellent alternative to regular flour. It’s extremely absorbent, so less of it is needed in recipes. This gluten-free flour is high in fiber and healthy fats while being relatively low in carbs. Keep in mind that coconut flour tends to clump together, so use a sifter when measuring it out.
3. Xanthan Gum
Xanthan gum is an essential ingredient for many low-carb baking recipes as it helps bind the dough or batter together and provides structure and stability. It’s gluten-free and has no net carbs, making it ideal for keto-friendly desserts like cakes, muffins, pies, and more.
4. Erythritol and Stevia
Erythritol and stevia are natural sugar substitutes that are commonly used in low-carb baking recipes. They have negligible effects on blood sugar levels while providing the same sweetness as sugar without all the calories or carbs.
Don’t let your love for baking jeopardize your progress on the keto diet! Stock up on these low-carb essentials today to enjoy guilt-free baked goods whenever you crave them! Incorporating Low-Carb Baking Essentials will surely help you delight with numerous scrumptious yet guilt-free delicacies without compromising flavor or health concerns! Next up: Keto-friendly snacks to amplify variety & health both!
Keto-Friendly Snacks
Snacks are an essential part of any diet, and the keto diet is no exception. But with restrictions on carbs, it can be challenging to find snacks that fit within the guidelines of the keto diet. However, fear not! We’ve got your back with a list of delicious, keto-friendly snacks you’ll love.
Cheese Crisps
If you’re a cheese lover, then these cheese crisps will have you drooling. They’re easy to make and require only one ingredient: shredded cheese. Place small heaps of shredded cheese onto parchment paper and bake until crispy. Pro-tip: sprinkle some herbs or spices before baking for added flavor.
Pork Rinds
Pork rinds are another satisfying snack option and are a great alternative to potato chips. They’re crunchy, salty, and perfect for dipping in guacamole or salsa.
Beef Jerky
When hunger strikes, beef jerky is an excellent snack to keep you going. Opt for low-sugar options since many commercial beef jerkies contain added sugars.
Olives
Olives are a great source of healthy fat for those following the keto diet. They’re packed with nutrients and antioxidants and won’t raise your blood sugar levels like many other snack options.
Pickles
Pickles are low-carb and make a tasty snack when hunger pangs hit home base. Plus they contain electrolytes which help replenish essential nutrients lost during physical activity.
Overall, snacking on the keto diet doesn’t have to be boring or complicated. Give these five keto-friendly snacking options a try., they’ll add a variety of savory tastes and curb those cravings at any time of day or night!
Beverages for Keto
Are you looking for a refreshing drink to quench your thirst on the ketogenic diet? Fear not, there are plenty of tasty and keto-friendly beverages available! In this section, we will cover all the different types of drinks that you can enjoy while maintaining a low-carb lifestyle.
Water
First and foremost, let’s talk about the most important beverage: water. This zero-calorie drink is essential for staying hydrated and can help support weight loss efforts. You should aim to drink at least eight cups of water per day, and more if you exercise or live in a hot climate.
Coffee and Tea
If you’re a coffee or tea lover, there’s good news: both drinks are keto-friendly! Black coffee, brewed tea, and herbal teas contain few or no carbohydrates. Just be cautious when adding cream or sugar as these can add up quickly.
Almond Milk and Coconut Milk
If you prefer something creamier than water, unsweetened almond milk and coconut milk are excellent choices. These dairy-free alternatives contain fewer calories and carbs than cow’s milk but still provide calcium, vitamin D, and other essential nutrients.
Sparkling Water and Sodas
Craving a fizzy drink? You don’t have to give up carbonated beverages entirely on keto – just reach for sparkling water or soda sweetened with natural sweeteners like stevia instead of sugar.
In summary, staying hydrated is crucial on keto so make sure you prioritize drinking lots of water first. However, if you need some variety in your beverage choices then there are tons of delicious options available such as coffee/tea without added sugars or creamers, and almond/coconut milk instead of regular milk which contains more carbs/calories. You could also have some sparkling water or sodas made with natural sweeteners like stevia for fizziness without the carbs/sugar!
Other Keto-Friendly Pantry Staples
Are you getting bored with the same keto foods every day? Want to add more variety and flavor to your meals? Look no further than your pantry! There are plenty of pantry staples that can help you stay on track with your keto diet. Here are some great options for other keto-friendly pantry staples.
Sugar-Free Condiments
Condiments like ketchup, barbecue sauce, and salad dressing can be high in sugar, which is a big no-no on the keto diet. But fear not! There are plenty of sugar-free condiments available that can add flavor to your meals without spiking your blood sugar. Some great options include:
- Mustard
- Mayonnaise
- Hot sauce
- Soy sauce (look for low-sodium options)
- Worcestershire sauce
These condiments are flavorful and versatile, making them a must-have in any keto kitchen.
Bone Broth
Bone broth is an excellent source of collagen and other nutrients that support skin health, joint health, and gut health. It’s also low in carbs, making it an ideal addition to any keto meal. Use it as a base for soups or stews or simply drink it straight up for a nourishing snack.
Vinegar
Vinegar is another versatile ingredient that can add flavor to all sorts of dishes. Apple cider vinegar is a popular choice among many people on the keto diet because it has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood sugar levels. Balsamic vinegar and red wine vinegar are also great options if you’re looking for something with a bit more complexity.
Cacao Powder
Chocolate lovers rejoice! Cacao powder is made from ground cacao beans and is an excellent source of antioxidants and minerals such as magnesium. It’s also low in carbs, making it a perfect addition to smoothies or baked goods if you’re looking for something sweet but still keto-friendly.
Dark Chocolate
Speaking of chocolate, dark chocolate is another pantry staple that can satisfy your sweet tooth without kicking you out of ketosis. Look for chocolate with a high percentage of cocoa solids (70% or more) and watch your portion sizes to stay within your daily carb limit.
The keto diet doesn’t have to be boring or restrictive. By stocking up on these other keto-friendly pantry staples, you can add variety, flavor, and nutrients to your meals while still staying on track with your goals.
Before You Go
Alright, you’ve made it to the end of this keto shopping list for beginners! In case you missed it, we covered a lot of ground here.
But before we go, let’s quickly recap the most important takeaways from this guide.
Firstly, understanding the keto diet is essential when making your shopping list. Knowing which foods are high in fat and low in carbs will help you stay on track with your goals. Additionally, reading nutrition labels is crucial to avoid hidden carbs and added sugars.
When creating your keto shopping list, keep in mind that fresh foods found on the perimeter of the store are typically better options than processed foods in the aisles. Buying in bulk can also save you money and ensure that you always have keto-friendly staples on hand.
Meal planning and prepping is another lifesaver when following a ketogenic diet. Not only does it make sticking to your food plan easier, but it can also save time during busy weekdays or prevent impulsive snacking.
Now let’s chat about some specific food categories for keto: protein sources like grass-fed meat, wild-caught fish, poultry and eggs are all great choices. Low-carb vegetables like leafy greens and cruciferous veggies should make up most of your plate alongside healthy fats such as olive oil or coconut oil.
Don’t forget about snacks either! Cheese crisps, pork rinds, and beef jerky all make delicious snacks for satisfying those hunger pains between meals.
Lastly, remember to stay hydrated with plenty of water throughout the day, peppered with some unsweetened beverages such as coffee or tea, or cream nut milk if preferred by you.
Well done! Armed with the knowledge shared above plus discipline- keto success will surely follow through!