13 Keto Diet Hacks That Will Make Your Life Easier
Are you following the keto diet but struggling to stick with it? You’re not alone. With any new diet, there are always challenges and hurdles to overcome. Luckily, we’re here to make your keto journey a little easier with these 13 hacks to help you stay on track and reach your health goals.
Meal Prep Like a Pro
One of the biggest obstacles to the keto diet is finding time to cook and prepare meals. But fear not; with some strategic meal prepping, you can save time and have delicious keto-friendly meals ready to go throughout the week. Cook up large batches of low-carb dishes like cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles and store them in the fridge or freezer for quick and easy meals.
Stock Up on Keto-friendly Snacks
Snacking can be a challenge on keto, especially when you’re on the go. So it’s important to always have some keto-friendly snacks within reach. Nuts, seeds, jerky, and cheese are all great options that are high in healthy fats and low in carbs.
Don’t Forget the Electrolytes
One of the common side effects of starting the keto diet is the “keto flu,” which can leave you feeling tired, dehydrated, and lethargic. Combat this by making sure you’re getting enough electrolytes from sources like bone broth, green leafy vegetables, and electrolyte supplements.
Experiment with Different Keto-friendly Sweeteners
Giving up sugar can be tough, but there are plenty of keto-friendly sweeteners out there that can satisfy your cravings without kicking you out of ketosis. Some popular options include stevia, erythritol, and monk fruit.
Get Creative with Cauliflower
Cauliflower is a versatile vegetable that can be used to make everything from pizza crust to mashed “potatoes” on the keto diet. So don’t be afraid to get creative and incorporate it into your meals in different ways. The recipe for the image above can be found here.
Consider Intermittent Fasting
Intermittent fasting is a popular approach for those on the keto diet, as it can help speed up weight loss and improve insulin sensitivity. Just make sure you’re still getting enough nutrients during your eating window.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water is important for overall health, but even more so on the keto diet. Since carbs hold onto water in the body, cutting them out can lead to dehydration if you’re not careful.
Staying hydrated assists in maintaining optimal body function and can aid in mitigating the effects of “keto flu.” It’s essential to increase your water intake and consume beverages like herbal tea and bone broth, which offer additional nutrients. Remember, in the absence of carbs, your body will be excreting more water, so keeping up with hydration is a must.
Learn to Love Healthy Fats
The keto diet is all about healthy fats, so don’t be afraid to experiment with new types and flavors. Avocado, coconut oil, and grass-fed butter are just a few examples of delicious and nutritious options.
Incorporating healthy fats into your meals makes them more satisfying and helps you reach your daily macronutrient goals. Olive oil, full-fat dairy, and fatty fish like salmon also provide good sources of healthy fats. These foods will keep you satisfied and support your body’s transition into and maintenance of ketosis.
Don’t Be Afraid to Say No
Navigating social situations while on the keto diet can be tricky, but don’t be afraid to say no to foods that will throw you off track. Stick to your plan and remember why you started this journey.
It’s okay to decline the dessert at a party or the carbohydrate-rich side at a dinner. Your dietary choices are a significant part of your health journey, and consistency is key. Having the confidence to stay committed to your diet, even in social situations, will help you stay on track and inspire others with your dedication and determination.
Find Keto-friendly Options at Restaurants
Eating out doesn’t have to sabotage your keto diet. Most restaurants have options that can easily be made keto-friendly, such as salads with protein and dressing on the side.
Many restaurants now offer low-carb alternatives like zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. Don’t hesitate to ask for modifications; be specific about your needs. Remember, you’re the customer, and most establishments are happy to accommodate dietary restrictions. You can enjoy a nice meal without derailing your keto diet progress.
Have Keto-friendly Snacks on Hand
Having keto-friendly snacks on hand can help prevent you from giving in to cravings or making unhealthy choices when hunger strikes. Nuts, cheese sticks, and hard-boiled eggs are all great options.
Jerky, avocado, and dark chocolate are also excellent keto-friendly snack options that you can keep nearby. Make sure to portion out your snacks to avoid overeating, as it’s important to maintain a calorie deficit for weight loss on the keto diet. Remember to read labels to ensure your snacks are low in carbs and high in healthy fats, aligning with your ketogenic goals.
Don’t Compare Yourself to Others
Everyone’s body is different and will respond differently to the keto diet. Don’t compare your progress to others; focus on your journey. The key to success lies in consistency and determination. Pushing through difficult times and staying true to your diet will ultimately yield results. Remember that your health journey is unique to you, and self-comparison often leads to unnecessary stress and disappointment.
Remember Why You Started
Lastly, always remember why you started the keto diet in the first place. Whether for weight loss, improved health, or both, keep that motivation front and center as you navigate any challenges or setbacks. With these hacks in mind, the keto diet can become a sustainable and enjoyable lifestyle rather than just a short-term weight loss plan.
Conclusion
The keto diet may seem daunting initially, but with these 13 hacks, it can become a manageable and enjoyable lifestyle. Don’t be afraid to say no to foods that don’t align with your goals, find keto-friendly options when eating out, and have snacks on hand to prevent giving in to cravings. Remember, progress may look different for everyone, so don’t compare yourself to others, and always keep your motivation in mind.
The keto diet can be a sustainable and healthy way of eating, so give it a try and see how it can make your life easier! And remember, consult with your doctor before starting any new dietary regimen to ensure it is safe for you and your individual needs. Happy keto-ing! So go ahead and give it a try – you may be surprised at how much easier your life becomes! See you on the keto side.
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Iva discovered the keto diet back in 2020 and has experimented with it, off and on. She recently took over this site and shares experiences, her knowledge and some yummy recipes. She also runs a women only website Women Blazing Trails.
