Keto on a Budget: It’s Possible!
Eating healthy doesn’t have to break the bank. With a little creativity and planning, you can stick to a ketogenic diet without sacrificing your wallet. Here are 11 ways to save money while staying in ketosis.
DIY Your Snacks
Skip the expensive packaged snacks and make your own. Nuts, seeds, and veggies are all affordable and keto-friendly. Get creative with your snack game and save some cash.
Get Strategic with Your Meats
Steak might be the darling of the keto world, but it’s not the only option. Opt for cheaper cuts of meat like roast beef or boneless chicken breasts. Your wallet (and your taste buds) will thank you.
Don’t Forget the Veggies
It’s easy to think that keto means meat, meat, and more meat. But veggies are an affordable and essential part of a ketogenic diet. Fill your cart with cauliflower, broccoli, and other low-carb veggies.
Bank on Black Soybeans
Black soybeans are a keto-friendly alternative to regular black beans and chickpeas. They’re affordable, delicious, and packed with nutrients. Add them to your grocery list stat!
Buy in Bulk
Buying in bulk is a great way to save time and money. Stock up on nuts, seeds, and other keto staples to keep your pantry full and your wallet happy.
Swap the Avocado for EVOO
Avocados are a keto favorite, but they can be pricey. Opt for extra-virgin olive oil instead to get your healthy fat fix without breaking the bank.
Head to the Freezer Section
Frozen fruits and veggies are often cheaper than their fresh counterparts. Stock up on frozen berries, broccoli, and other keto-friendly options to save some cash.
Go Bargain-Hunting
Clipping coupons might be old-school, but it still works! Keep an eye out for sales on meat, veggies, and other keto staples to save some serious cash.
Pick Your Battles
You don’t have to break the bank on organic, free-range, grass-fed meat. Make some compromises and opt for more affordable options that still fit within your keto macros.
Get Eggy with It
Eggs are a keto staple and an affordable protein source. Use them to make omelets, scrambles, and other delicious keto dishes.
Preparation is Key
Meal prep is a keto game-changer. It saves time, money, and stress. Plan your meals, prep your ingredients, and get ready to rock ‘n’ roll in the kitchen.
Cheap Low-Carb Breakfast Ideas
Need some keto inspiration? Try these affordable breakfast ideas:
- Cheese-crusted keto omelet
- Keto egg cups
- Keto pancakes with berries and whipped cream
Affordable Low-Carb Lunches and Dinners
Here are some delicious and budget-friendly keto lunch and dinner ideas:
- Bacon-wrapped keto meatloaf
- Easy oven fajitas
- Slow cooker white chicken chili
- Keto low-carb chicken stir-fry
- Stuffed low-carb cabbage casserole
Low-Cost Low-Carb Sides
These keto-friendly sides won’t break the bank:
- Coleslaw
- Oven-roasted vegetables
- Healthy green bean casserole
Sample Meal Plan
Here’s a sample 7-day keto meal plan to get you started:
Monday:
- Breakfast: Hard-boiled egg with tomatoes on a bed of greens
- Lunch: Cobb salad topped with cheese and grilled chicken
- Snack: Celery sticks
- Dinner: Ground beef and veggie stir-fry topped with almonds
Tuesday:
- Breakfast: Scrambled eggs cooked in butter on a bed of greens
- Lunch: Bowl of sautéed chicken and broccoli over riced cauliflower
- Snack: Handful of nuts
- Dinner: Crustless frittata with a side salad topped with bacon
…and so on. The key is to stick to affordable ingredients, prep your meals, and get creative with your keto dishes.
Budget-Friendly Keto Substitutions
Here are some common swaps to make your keto diet more affordable:
- Swap ground beef for chicken breasts or bacon
- Opt for guacamole instead of fresh avocados
- Use coconut oil instead of butter
- Chop your own tomatoes and herbs for a DIY salsa
The Bottom Line
Eating keto on a budget requires some planning and creativity, but it’s totally possible. Stick to affordable ingredients, prep your meals, and get ready to rock ‘n’ roll in the kitchen. Happy cooking!
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