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How to do Keto Cheap: Tips and Tricks for Eating Low Carb on a Budget
Keto has become an enormously popular lifestyle over the past few years, and for good reason. The ketogenic diet is effective for losing weight, increasing energy levels, and improving mental clarity. However, many people are intimidated by the thought of starting a keto diet because they believe it is expensive. In reality, it is possible to eat keto on the cheap by following some simple tips and tricks. In this blog post, we will explore the ways to do keto cheap without sacrificing quality and nutrition.
Method 1: Shop in Season and Buy in Bulk
One of the easiest ways to save money on a keto diet is to shop for seasonal produce. When fruits and vegetables are in season, they are generally cheaper and more abundant. This means that you can stock up on lower-priced produce and incorporate it into your meals throughout the week. For example, in the summer, strawberries and blueberries are plentiful and affordable, while in the fall, squash and pumpkins are in season and available for a fraction of their usual cost.
Another way to save money is to buy in bulk whenever possible. Bulk buying is especially beneficial for non-perishables such as nuts and seeds. These are essential elements of the keto diet and can be quite pricey at the grocery store. However, if you purchase in bulk, you may be able to save 30-50% compared to regular sized packs.
Method 2: Plan, Prep and Repurpose Leftovers
Meal planning and meal preparation are two incredibly effective ways to save money on the keto diet. Setting up a weekly meal plan can help you stay on track with your macros and eliminate the need to order takeaway or eat out. A weekly plan enables you to use what you already have in the fridge, which avoids throwing food away, and account for groceries within your budget per week.
Meal preparation can be a time-consuming process, but it doesn’t have to be. For instance, selecting one day out of the week to cook will be helpful in preparing food for the rest of the week. Every time you’re prepping something, create meals with leftovers in mind. For instance, cook a large pot of chili and use it for breakfast, lunch, and dinner throughout three days.
Repurposing leftover food is also a smart way to save money. Transform chicken breasts into tacos or stew, chop up vegetables for salad or stir fry with a low-carb sauce. Doing so will automatically make your food more delicious and your investment more valuable.
Method 3: Keep It Simple and Skip the packaged stuff
Many keto followers assume that they need to buy specific products such as specialized bread or pantry staples to achieve their goals. In truth, unprocessed, whole foods are best for keto-friendly eating. Processed snack bars, juices and keto packs have the potential to dominate the budget and a lot of them are loaded with additives that can halt the process of being in ketosis.
Instead, choose simple, healthy food options like leafy greens, healthy fats, colorful vegetables, and quality protein sources that are easily accessible at your local grocery store or farmer’s market. Think fresh berries, nuts, meats, eggs and healthy fats like coconut oil, and olive oil. Simple foods can be as satisfying, nutritious, and delicious as complex, gourmet ones—without the additional price tag.
Conclusion
Eating keto doesn’t have to break the bank. By strategically shopping, prepping and planning, monitoring what you buy, and keeping it simple, it’s possible to do keto on the cheap side. With the ease of access and unique offerings of farmer’s markets, grocery stores, and local outlets, it’s possible to achieve all the health benefits of going keto while staying on a budget. Start eating keto food today with these inexpensive tips and tricks while keeping nourishment and satisfaction a priority.