In general, it is best to use ingredients from these following food groups:
- Fats & Oils. Try to get your fat from natural sources like meat and nuts. Supplement with saturated and monounsaturated fats like coconut oil, butter, olive oil, and avocado oil.
- Protein. Try to stick with organic, pasture-raised, and grass-fed meat where possible. Most meats don’t have added sugar in them, so they can be consumed in moderate quantity.
- Vegetables. Fresh or frozen doesn’t matter. Stick with above ground vegetables, especially leafy/green produce. Not sure exactly what this means? Use our low carb vegetable guide to clear up any confusion.
- Dairy. Most dairy is fine, but make sure to buy full-fat dairy items that have the fewest carbs.
- Nuts and Seeds. Since many nuts and seeds have some carbs, try to use fattier nuts like macadamias and almonds.
- Beverages. Stay simple and stick to mostly water. You can flavor it with stevia-based water enhancers or lemon/lime juice if you’d like. For more keto-friendly drink options, check out our complete guide to keto drinks and beverages.
For a more in-depth breakdown of each keto food group along with some ideas on what you can eat, click here. If you’re not much of the planning type and would rather have meal plans and shopping lists that are made for you, take a look at our Keto Academy Program >