Living a keto lifestyle doesn’t mean you have to bid farewell to dining out and socializing with friends. Whether you’re looking to shed a few pounds or simply maintain your keto journey, there are plenty of delicious options to explore without compromising your low-carb commitment. Here’s your guide to navigating your city’s food scene while staying true to your keto goals.
Plan Ahead and Track Your Food
Before heading to your chosen restaurant, take a few moments to review the menu online. Most restaurants provide their menus on their websites, allowing you to identify keto-friendly options in advance. Look for dishes rich in lean proteins, healthy fats, and non-starchy vegetables.
On keto keeping track of your carb intake is essential in weight loss. It might seem like a lot to remember what you ate/drank, but a tool like a weight loss journal can help you record and track your carb intake, allowing you to stay focused and on track as you work towards your weight loss goals.
Embrace Protein
Many cities boast an array of restaurants that serve up mouthwatering protein-rich dishes. Opt for grilled chicken, salmon, steak, or seafood. Pair your protein with a side of steamed broccoli, sautéed spinach, or a crisp Caesar salad (sans croutons) for a satisfying and keto-approved meal.
Healthy Fats Are Your Friend
Eateries often incorporate healthy fats like avocado, olive oil, and nuts into their dishes. Avocado toast minus the bread, a salad drizzled with olive oil, or a handful of almonds as an appetizer are all great keto-friendly choices.
Customize Your Order
Don’t hesitate to customize your order to make it keto-compliant. Ask for substitutions like cauliflower rice instead of regular rice or lettuce wraps instead of buns. Most restaurants are accommodating to dietary preferences, so feel free to tailor your meal to your liking.
Be Mindful of Hidden Carbs
Watch out for hidden carbs in sauces, dressings, and marinades. Request them on the side, so you can control how much you consume. Opt for options like vinaigrettes or creamy sauces made with keto-friendly ingredients.
Skip the Sugary Drinks
While dining out, it’s easy to fall into the trap of sugary beverages. Stick to water, unsweetened iced tea, or coffee with heavy cream to avoid unnecessary carbs and stay hydrated.
- Tip: Since it’s fall, here’s how to order a Keto Pumpkin Spice Latte from Starbucks
- Start with a Grande Coffee. This will be your base, as it has zero carbs and is sugar-free.
- Ask for no classic syrup. This is the sweetener Starbucks typically adds to their coffee, but it’s full of sugar.
- Ask for three pumps of sugar-free vanilla syrup. This will give your latte that sweet, dessert-like flavor without the carbs.
- Ask for a splash of heavy cream. This will give your latte a creamy, rich texture.
- Finally, ask for a couple shakes of pumpkin spice topping. This is the key to transforming your coffee into a pumpkin spice latte. Enjoy!
Dessert Alternatives
Love dessert? Well you CAN have your cake and eat it too, thanks to keto-friendly dessert shops and cafés. Treat yourself to a keto cheesecake, a scoop of sugar-free ice cream, or a dark chocolate square to satisfy your sweet tooth without derailing your keto journey.
Practice Portion Control
Restaurant servings can be generous. Consider sharing an entrée with a dining companion or requesting a to-go box right away to avoid overindulging.
Enjoy the Atmosphere
Dining out is not just about the food; it’s also about the experience. Savor the ambiance, enjoy good company, and focus on the joy of being out rather than fixating on the dietary restrictions.
By following these tips, you can relish in your city’s culinary scene while staying committed to your keto lifestyle. Your city is filled with diverse dining options, and with a little preparation and creativity, you’ll discover that eating keto can be a delightful and satisfying adventure at every corner. So go ahead, explore, and enjoy the flavors of your town while staying true to your keto goals!
