5 Low-Carb, Keto-Friendly Foods
The key focus of a keto diet is to cut down on carbohydrates and substitute it with fats and proteins. With a reduction in carbohydrate-content, the body goes into a state of ketosis, where it starts breaking down fat to create energy. This can kickstart healthy weight loss, and is thus a diet followed by many. For accurate results, however, food intake should be monitored strictly. If required, it is recommended to consult a dietician before embarking on any specific diet. To help get you started, here are five keto-friendly foods that are extremely healthy. Add these to your regular meals and you’re good to go.
Avocados
The keto diet is a high-fat and moderate-protein diet. Therefore, avocados surely fit the brief. This is because these are one of the fattiest fruits ever. 77% of the calories that come from eating an avocado are derived from its fat content. Also, half of a medium-sized avocado has only nine grams of carbohydrates, seven grams of which are nutritious fiber. Avocados can also be incorporated into delicious recipes, which makes it easy to include in your keto diet.
Whole milk Greek yogurt
Yogurt that is made with whole milk has few carbohydrates and is extremely nutritious. A six-ounce serving of whole milk Greek yogurt has around eight grams of carbohydrates. It contains probiotics that eliminate bacteria in the body. It is also super-rich in vitamins and proteins. So, adding it to your keto diet will keep your body healthy.
Fatty fish
Fatty fish like salmon, sardines, and tuna are healthy additions to a keto meal. They are rich in heart-healthy fats and have barely any carbohydrates. For instance, according to the USDA, half of a raw Atlantic salmon fillet (154g) has zero carbohydrates and 12 and a half grams of fat. Have a serving of grilled fatty fish along with a side of salad without any worries, and your keto diet will stay on track.
Whole eggs
Eggs are easy additions to keto meals. They are full of healthy fats, nutrients and proteins. Egg whites are rich in iron, copper, zinc and selenium, along with containing vitamin D, B6, and B12. The yolk, alternatively, has the fat content, so it’s better to eat the whole egg during a keto meal. Eggs make for a great catalyst to burn fats in the body. So, they are fundamental to a keto diet, unless you’re vegan or allergic to it.
Chia seeds
Chia pudding is often a top choice for those on keto diets. This is because the chia seeds that go into them have a high-fat content. Its carbs too mostly come from fiber, making it perfect for a ketogenic diet. 15 grams of chia seeds has four grams of both, fat and fiber. The fat comes from the omega-3s which make them super nutritious. Chia seeds are also versatile additions to meals. Simply add them to salads or soups. You can also incorporate them into keto smoothie recipes.