The ketogenic or keto diet has become more popular in recent years. Studies have discovered that this very low carbohydrate, high-fat diet plan is effective for weight loss and diabetes. There’s likewise early evidence to show that it may be advantageous for certain cancers, Alzheimer’s disease, and other chronic illnesses too.
Below are the top 5 foods you ought to eat if you’re on a keto diet:
1. Meat and Poultry
Meat and poultry are thought to be staple foods on a ketogenic diet plan. Fresh meat and poultry contain no carbohydrates and are rich in B vitamins and several essential minerals. They’re also a fantastic source of high-quality protein, which has been shown to help protect muscle mass during an extremely low carb diet plan.
Grass-fed meat is the best for keto diet. This is because animals that eat grass produce meat with higher quantities of antioxidants, omega-3 fats, and conjugated linoleic acid than meat from grain-fed animals.
2. Eggs
Eggs are one of the healthiest and most versatile foods on the planet. One large egg contains less than 1 gram of carbohydrates and about 6 grams of protein, making eggs an excellent food for the keto way of life. Also, eggs have been shown to activate hormones that increase feelings of being full for longer periods of time.
It is essential to consume the whole egg, as most of an egg’s nutrients are found in the yolk. The yolk has the antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin, which helps with eye health.
3. Avocados
Avocados are incredibly healthy; half of a medium avocado contains 9 grams of carbohydrates. 7 grams of these are fiber, so its net carbohydrate count is just 2 grams.
Avocados are high in several minerals and vitamins, including potassium, an essential mineral that many people lack in their diets. What’s more, higher potassium intake can help make the transition to a ketogenic diet plan much more manageable.
Also, avocados can improve cholesterol and triglyceride levels. One study discovered that participants consuming one avocado each day had beneficial effects for their cardio‐metabolic risk factors related to bad cholesterol.
4. Cheese
There are numerous kinds of cheese. A lot are light in carbs and high in fat, which makes them an excellent fit for a keto diet. One ounce of cheddar cheese provides 1 gram of carbohydrates, 6.5 grams of protein, and a significant quantity of calcium.
Cheese is high in saturated fat. However, it hasn’t been shown to increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Some research studies suggest that cheese may even help prevent certain heart diseases. Cheese also has conjugated linoleic acid, which is a fat that has been connected to fat loss and enhancements in body composition. Also, eating cheese may reduce the loss of muscle mass and strength that occurs with aging.
5. Seafood
Fish and shellfish are incredibly keto-friendly foods. Salmon and other fish are abundant in B vitamins, potassium, and selenium, yet virtually carb-free. Nevertheless, the carbohydrate content of various shellfish vary. While shrimp and most crabs don’t contain carbohydrates, other types of shellfish do. Shellfish can still be part of on a ketogenic diet plan but it is essential to account for these carbohydrates when you’re attempting to remain within a narrow range.
Salmon, sardines, mackerel, and other fatty fish are very high in omega-3 fats, which have been discovered to lower insulin levels and increase insulin sensitivity in individuals who are obese. Also, regular fish consumption has been connected to a reduced risk of illness and improved cognitive health.
