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How to Do Keto on a Budget
Keto, short for ketogenic, is a diet that comprises high-fat, low-carb, and moderate protein foods. It is increasingly becoming popular for its health benefits ranging from weight loss, improved brain function to reduced risk of heart disease. However, with its focus on organic and whole foods, the diet can be quite expensive for most people. Fortunately, there are several budget-friendly ways to enjoy keto. In this blog post, we’ll explore three simple methods to help you do keto on a budget.
Method 1: Plan Your Meals and Shop Smart
One of the best ways to save money on keto is to plan your meals ahead of time. Start by making a list of the foods you want to consume in the coming week. This will help you avoid overspending and impulse buys.
When shopping, try to stick to foods that are in season and easily available. Fresh produce and meats can be expensive, but you can save money by choosing frozen and canned options. For instance, frozen vegetables are just as nutritious as fresh and are more affordable. You can also consider buying meats in bulk and freezing them.
In addition, shopping at discount stores, farmer’s markets, and co-ops can be a great way to get healthy foods at a lower cost. You should also compare prices at different stores to find the best deals.
Method 2: Incorporate More Vegetarian and Vegan Meals
Meat, dairy, and eggs are commonly used in keto recipes, but they can be quite expensive. You can save money while still enjoying the benefits of keto by incorporating more vegetarian and vegan meals into your diet.
Plant-based proteins such as tofu, tempeh, lentils, and beans are often cheaper than animal-based options. You can also swap out your regular dairy products with alternatives such as almond milk and coconut yogurt. These options are not only budget-friendly, but they also maintain the high-fat, low-carb levels that keto requires.
Method 3: Make Your Own Snacks and Meals
Pre-packaged keto snacks and meals can be expensive, but you can save money by making your own. You can meal prep your lunches and dinners or make your own snack bars and fat bombs, which are easy to make and can be stored for several days.
Granola bars made from nuts, seeds, and natural sweeteners such as stevia are a great budget-friendly option for a quick snack. You can also make your own mayonnaise, salad dressings, and sauces instead of buying them from the store.
Conclusion
Keto can seem expensive, but with a little effort, you can enjoy the benefits of the diet while still sticking to your budget. By planning your meals ahead of time, shopping smart, incorporating more vegetarian and vegan meals, and making your own snacks and meals, you can save money and stay healthy.
Real-life examples show that it is possible to enjoy keto on a budget. For instance, a blogger at Dollar Sprout shares how she reduced her grocery bill from $350 to $100 per week when she switched to a keto diet. By following the tips outlined above, you can also achieve your keto goals without breaking the bank.
Overall, doing keto on a budget has several benefits, including improved health, weight loss, and saving money. You can achieve your fitness and health goals while still being conscious of your finances. With these methods, you can do keto on a budget and enjoy the many benefits that come with the diet.