Ketogenic (Keto)

A very low-carb, high-fat diet that shifts your body into ketosis, burning fat for fuel instead of carbohydrates. Typically limits carbs to 20-50g per day.

In this guide8 sections
  1. 01Goal of the plan
  2. 02Who it is for
  3. 03Example meals and foods
  4. 04Foods to limit or adapt
  5. 05Grocery guidance
  6. 06Hydration guidance
  7. 07Flexibility and sustainability
  8. 08Individual nutrition note
Real people preparing food in a kitchen class
Real people preparing food in a kitchen class. Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:20111019-FNS-RBN-1684_-_Flickr_-_USDAgov.jpg. 20111019-FNS-RBN-1684 - Flickr - USDAgov by U.S. Department of Agriculture, CC BY 2.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0). Sourced from Wikimedia Commons.

Goal of the plan

Source best-for note: Weight loss, blood sugar control, epilepsy management.

Who it is for

The source category is Low Carb, with difficulty marked Hard.

Example meals and foods

The source macro split is 20% protein, 5% carbohydrate, and 75% fat.

Meal timing: 2-3 meals per day, intermittent fasting common.

  • Meat & poultry
  • Fatty fish
  • Eggs
  • Butter & cream
  • Cheese
  • Nuts & seeds
  • Avocados
  • Low-carb vegetables
  • Olive oil
  • Coconut oil

Foods to limit or adapt

  • Grains & starches
  • Sugar & sweets
  • Fruit (most)
  • Beans & legumes
  • Root vegetables
  • Low-fat products
  • Alcohol
  • Sugar-free diet foods

Grocery guidance

Suggested addition

Build a simple list around the foods you already enjoy, then add one or two easy repeatable meals before trying to overhaul everything.

Hydration guidance

Suggested addition

Keep water available through the day and adjust fluids around heat, sweat rate, long runs, and higher-fiber meals.

Flexibility and sustainability

Suggested addition

May cause 'keto flu' initially. Not recommended for those with pancreatic or liver conditions. Difficult to sustain long-term.

Individual nutrition note

Suggested addition

Nutrition advice should be adapted to the individual. Consider medical history, medications, preferences, budget, culture, and support from a qualified clinician or dietitian when needed.