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The keto diet is all the rage these days. But what is it, exactly? The keto diet is a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet that causes the body to burn fat instead of glucose for energy. When you eat foods high in carbohydrates, your body produces glucose and insulin. Glucose is the primary source of energy for the body’s cells, and insulin is a hormone that helps the body store glucose. When you eat foods high in fat and low in carbs, your body enters a state called ketosis. Ketosis occurs when the liver breaks down fat into molecules called ketones, which are then used as energy by the brain and other organs.
The keto diet has been shown to help people lose weight, lower their risk of heart disease, and improve their mental health. But what about the food? Is the keto diet as delicious as everyone says it is? The answer is a resounding yes! Even though you’re restricting your carb intake on the keto diet, there are still plenty of foods that taste great and are good for you. Here are some of the best keto-friendly foods to add to your diet:
Chicken Nuggets
Chicken nuggets are classic comfort food that can be made keto-friendly. You can either make your chicken nuggets or buy them pre-made. If you’re making your own, be sure to use chicken breast meat and avoid breading or using high-carb sauces. When buying pre-made chicken nuggets, look for brands that use almond flour or coconut flour instead of wheat flour. The best way to prepare them is to bake them in the oven. You may also air-fry them or cook them in a pan. You can do a quick online search if you want to learn more about how different cooking methods affect the nutritional value of chicken nuggets if you are making them at home. Serve chicken nuggets with a side of keto-friendly dipping sauce, such as ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing, and enjoy!
Grilled Salmon
Grilled salmon is a healthy and delicious keto-friendly food that everyone should include in their meal plan. Salmon is high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for your health. It is also low in carbs, making it a perfect choice for the keto diet. Grilling salmon gives it a crispy outer crust and a tender, juicy inside. It’s the perfect dish for a summer barbecue or any other occasion. You may pair it with a salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Just be sure to avoid high-carb sauces or toppings, such as honey mustard or teriyaki sauce. And pick the low-carb veg like zucchini, asparagus, broccoli, or green beans so you don’t go over your carb limit.
Eggplant Parmesan
Eggplant Parmesan is a classic Italian dish that can easily be made keto-friendly. Breaded and fried eggplant is traditionally used in this dish, but you can make a healthier version by grilling or roasting the eggplant instead. Be sure to use a low-carb marinara sauce and avoid using too much cheese, which can add up in carbs. You may top your eggplant Parmesan with chicken, shrimp, or another protein of your choice. Keep in mind that the traditional version of this dish is usually served with spaghetti, so you’ll need to find a low-carb pasta alternative or forgo the pasta altogether. Either way, this dish is sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Zucchini Noodles
Zucchini noodles, also known as zoodles, are a delicious and healthy alternative to pasta. They’re made by spiralizing zucchini into long, noodle-like strands. Zucchini noodles are low in carbs and calories but high in nutrients, making them a perfect choice for the keto diet. They’re also extremely versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, such as soups, salads, stir-fries, and more. You can even use them as a replacement for pasta in your favorite recipes. To cook zucchini noodles, simply sauté them in a pan with a little olive oil or broth. You can also boil them or microwave them. Be sure to avoid overcooking them, as they can become mushy. Once cooked, top your zoodles with your favorite keto-friendly sauce or protein.
Garlic Shrimp
Garlic shrimp is a quick and easy keto-friendly meal that can be made in under 30 minutes. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or anytime you need a quick and healthy meal. This dish is made with shrimp, garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice. You may also add other seasonings, such as salt, pepper, oregano, or basil. To make this dish, simply sauté the shrimp and garlic in a pan with olive oil until the shrimp are cooked through. Then, add the lemon juice and any other seasonings you like. Serve your garlic shrimp over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
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As you can see, there are plenty of delicious and healthy keto-friendly foods that you can enjoy on this diet. While you may have to give up some of your favorite high-carb foods, such as pasta and bread, you’ll be amazed at all of the delicious and satisfying food options that are available to you. So, don’t be discouraged if you’re feeling a little overwhelmed at first. Just take things one step at a time and before you know it, you’ll be a keto pro!
