Foods To Avoid On The Keto Diet

Which foods are good for the keto diet? Heres what to avoid

Some of the questions we'll answer:

•What foods to avoid on keto?
•Are black eyed peas keto?
•Are pinto beans keto?
•Can I eat beans on keto?
•Are black beans keto?
•Can you eat watermelon on keto?
•Are grapes keto friendly?
•Can you eat corn on keto diet?Can I have fruit on keto?

On a keto diet, you want to aim for a low-carb diet breakdown of about 70-80 percent fat, 5-10 percent carbs, and 20-15 percent protein. Some foods are much higher in carbohydrates and may jeopardize your ability to stay in ketosis and restrict weight loss.Certain foods are rich in nutrients and fiber and may be able to be included in your diet in small enough quantities. However, these foods cannot be consumed liberally and should not be your staple food choices. Careful attention must be paid to serving sizes of these higher carb foods.Keep reading to learn more about what foods you can incorporate into a ketogenic diet in moderation, and which ones you should avoid to yield the results you want.

Grains You Should Avoid

One agreed-upon truth about the keto diet is that you should avoid these flour-based, carbohydrate-rich foods–even whole grains. Consuming them can prevent ketosis and may increase blood sugar and insulin levels–which promotes body fat storage. To get the results you want, you're going to have to cut out grains. Avoid grains such as:

• Wheat
• Oats
• Rice
• Quinoa
• Millet
• Rye
• Corn
• Buckwheat
• Barley

Remember, you should stay away from breads, pasta, pizza crusts, cookies, or crackers made with any of these grains. Try out a cauliflower pizza crust or zoodles if you want a keto-friendly alternative!

Beans And Legumes To Avoid

Carb counts for one cup of cooked beans:

• Black beans: 40.8 grams
• Pinto beans: 44.8 grams
• Garbanzo beans (also known as chickpeas): 45 grams
• Kidney beans: 40.4 grams
• Red beans: 120 grams

Lower-carb bean alternatives:

Because calculating net carbs can be confusing, and because making a mistake can ruin ketosis, many people on the keto diet avoid beans altogether. Quitting beans "cold turkey" can be tough, though, as beans play such an important role in cuisine. Fortunately, you can incorporate several low-carb bean alternatives into your keto diet plan.

Beanless refried beans (check out this keto recipe) create the taste and texture of refried beans without the beans or the carbs. This dish uses eggplant or zucchini, bacon and spices – top with optional cheese or sour cream for an authentic south-of-the-border flavor.
Peas are legumes, most peas contain about half the carbohydrates as beans. A cup of green peas contains only 21 grams of carbs, for example. Green peas are also an excellent source of vitamin A, vitamin K and protein. Peas work well as bean replacements in chili, salads and curry, but due to their distinct flavor, peas may not work well in many other bean-based dishes.
Lentils are also legumes with a total carb count of 40 grams, but they contain 16 grams of fiber, which brings the net carbohydrates down to manageable levels.
Enoki mushrooms resemble bean sprouts and have a texture similar to cooked beans, making them a great substitute for beans. One cup of sliced enoki mushrooms has only 24 calories and a mere 5 grams of carbs. Enoki mushrooms are also a great source of vitamins and minerals, such as iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and B vitamins. Enoki mushrooms are available fresh and canned, which make them easy to add to soups, salads and many other dishes.
Nuts - Try buttery macadamia nuts, protein-rich almonds, or sweet pecans, which are chock full heart healthy vitamins but light on the carbohydrates.
Other vegetables - A number of vegetables can mimic the taste and texture of beans without the burden of high carbohydrates. Try diced mushrooms, chopped zucchini or riced cauliflower as bean replacements

Click and read on here for a deep dive on what beans you can and can't eat on keto. SuperFat also went more in-depth around the topic of peas on keto if you'd like to read more on that topic as well.

Dairy Products To Avoid

While you don't have to avoid all dairy on a keto diet, you should be strict about limiting:

• Low-fat milk–stick to two percent or above, and don't drink more than one serving per day. Even better, opt for full-fat, raw milk.Heavy cream is also permitted.
• Shredded cheese–sometimes it contains potato starch to keep the shreds separate. Stick with slices or block cheese. Always choose whole milk, high-fat cheese rather than reduced-fat or fat-free cheese.
• Fat-free butter alternatives
• Low-fat whipped cream
• Low-fat cream cheese
• Ice cream

Fruits To Avoid

Like beans, fruit has a lot of benefits–but they also have a lot of naturally occurring sugars, and therefore, carbs. Steer clear of fruits such as:

Check out the keto foods to consume page to learn more.

• Apples
• Bananas
• Grapefruit
• Grapes
• Honeydew melon
• Oranges
• Pineapple
• Watermelon
• Fruit juices
• Dried fruit
• Smoothies
• Papaya
• Mangos
• Tangerines

Some fruits can be enjoyed sparingly. Add fruits with a lower sugar content into your meal plan, such as raspberries, blueberries, strawberries, and blackberries.

Starchy Vegetables To Avoid

A good rule of thumb in avoiding starchy, carbohydrate-rich veggies is where they are grown. If a vegetable grows underground, it's a most likely high-carb. Avoid starchy veggies such as:

Potatoes
Sweet Potatoes
Corn
Cherry tomatoes
Parsnips
Yucca
Carrots

Focus on incorporating lots of green, leafy, low-carb vegetables into your diet. Fill up on vegetables like spinach, cauliflower, zucchini, and broccoli.

Sugars To Avoid

In general, sugars are a no-go on a ketogenic diet. However, did you know there are 56 different types of sugar you may encounter on nutrition labels? They are hiding everywhere you look, so you need to be vigilant. Avoid things that list any of the following:

• Cane sugar
• Honey
• High-fructose corn syrup
• Agave nectar
• Turbinado sugar
• Maple syrup
• Raw sugar
• Sucralose
• Palm sugar
• Coconut sugar
• Aspartame
• Saccharine

If you have a bit of a sweet tooth, you're not out of luck. Try low-carb, healthy sweeteners like stevia and monk fruit in your favorite recipes. Here 75 of the healthiest keto-friendly desserts you can test out at home.

Nuts To Avoid

While nuts are not traditionally viewed as carbohydrates, some types have a higher carb content that may prevent you from consuming less than 30 grams of net carbs per day, so be careful. Read a complete guide to the health benefits (and nutritional analysis) of nuts here.

• Cashews
• Peanuts
• Pistachios
• Chesnuts

The good news most nuts are perfectly acceptable on a keto diet–and they're packed with healthy fats that foster ketosis. Remember to eat them in moderation and dole yourself out a serving size before sitting down with an entire bag. The lowest carb nuts are pecans, brazil nuts, macadamia nuts, and walnuts. 

Avoid Meat And Fish Farmed In Factories

When possible, choose organic animal meats and seafood that are grass-fed rather than grain-fed–they have more valuable nutrients. You should also avoid processed meats that have a lot of nitrates and additives that add no nutritional value to your diet. In general, avoid:

• Hot dogs
• Packaged sausages
• Canned meat
• Beef jerky and bacon–they are acceptable in limited quantities but have a high sodium content, so eat them in moderation
• Salami
• Chicken nuggets and fish sticks–unless they are homemade and breaded in coconut flour or another keto-friendly flour alternative

Oils To Avoid

While all oils have plenty of fat which is an important component of a keto diet–your body needs fatty acids to produce energy especially when you aren't eating many carbs. However, they aren't all created equal. You need to consume quality oils made from a healthy food source. Avoid processed or inflammatory oils, including:

• Sunflower oil
• Safflower oil
• Soybean oil
• Peanut oil
• Corn oil
• Grapeseed oil
• Sesame oil

The best types of oil for your body are virgin olive oil, coconut oil, avocado oil, macadamia oil. Plus, they are delicious!

Beverages To Avoid

Like most diets, you should drink a lot of water when following a keto diet. However, if we are trying to limit carbs (and sugars) there are several drinks you should steer clear of, but it can be tricky to know what's acceptable. Avoid the following high-carb beverages:

Beer–especially heavy beers such as stouts, porters, and ale. It's like drinking liquid bread.
Most wine, especially sweet wines. Go for a dry red or white if you're having a glass or two.
Cocktails–many spirits are fairly low in carbs but the mixers can do you in.Avoid mixers such as cranberry or pineapple juice and simple syrup.Club soda is a good zero-calorie, low-carb mixer.
Flavored liquors
Fruit and vegetable juices
Soda
Diet sodas–many of the artificial sweeteners upset blood sugar, ketosis, and cause cravings
Sweetened milk-based drinks, including coffee-based drinks and milkshakes
Tea drinks with added sugar

Keep in mind, alcohol is ethanol, which your liver will focus on breaking down–and your body doesn't prioritize burning fat during that. So, drinking can seriously slow down weight loss even if you're following a strict keto diet. Check out this informative guide about drinking on a keto diet.

The Bottom Line

Just because a particular food appears healthy, it doesn't mean it's keto-approved. You have to retrain your thinking about the traditional food pyramid if you want to live a keto lifestyle and reap the benefits of this particular diet.

In general, avoid grains, starchy vegetables that grow in the ground, beans and legumes, processed oils, and fruits high in sugar. Limit alcohol and stay away from carb-heavy beers, wines, and mixers, and other sugary beverages. Focus on low-carb foods such as organic meats and seafood, green, leafy greens, water, low-carb nuts, soda, artificial sweeteners, and low-fat or fat-free dairy products.

If you're also looking for a keto diet food list - for what you should consume on keto - look no further than right here!

For a convenient snack option that fits perfectly into your keto lifestyle, try KetoBars. Visit Ketobars.com to explore their delicious flavors and find the perfect option to support your keto diet and exercise routine.

All the foods you should steer clear of on keto

Natalie Butler, RDN, LD

Natalie gained an understanding of the organic and natural food industries, the supplement industry and clinical dietetics through her various job experiences. Natalie started her own private practice, Nutrition By Natalie, in 2005 to further help people reconnect with nourishing, wholesome food. She advocates for a personalized, nutrigenomics and functional-medicine based approach to disease prevention and treatment. Natalie specializes in medical review, consulting and corporate wellness services for various large tech and health information companies. She also works with Healthline as a medical reviewer, for Mind Body Green as a health writer, is on the advisory board for Head Health, Inc. and consults for the popular intermittent fasting app, Simple.

Published:August 17, 2020 Updated:August 17, 2020

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What to Do When You Mess Up on Keto (It Happens to Everyone)

Let’s be real: even the most dedicated keto pro has a story that starts with I was doing great until…

Maybe it was the office pizza party. Or that friend who swore “just one bite” of dessert wouldn’t hurt. Or maybe you simply had a rough day and needed comfort food that wasn’t exactly low-carb.

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Everyone slips up on keto sometimes. It’s part of being human. 

What matters most isn’t the mistake itself, but how you recover. So, if you’ve had a carb-filled detour, take a deep breath. 

Here’s a science-backed, compassionate guide to know what to do when you mess up on keto, and how to bounce back quickly, without guilt or panic.


Why Slipping Up on Keto Is Totally Normal

Keto is a lifestyle, and as such, it’s not about perfection; it’s about consistency. 

Life happens, and even with the best intentions, slip-ups are common, especially during holidays, vacations, and social events.

The truth is, common keto diet mistakes often stem from situations outside our usual routine: hidden carbs in sauces, unplanned meals, emotional stress, or just wanting to fit in at a dinner table. 

It doesn’t mean you’ve failed or undone all your progress.

According to nutrition research, your body temporarily exits ketosis when you consume excess carbs, but it can re-enter within a few days once you return to low-carb eating. 

The key is knowing what to do when you mess up on keto, and how to reset efficiently.

 

Large platter of keto-friendly food: eggs, meats and salad.

 

First-Aid for Keto Slips: What to Do Immediately

Okay, so you indulged. Now what? 

Here are your first, science-backed steps for keto mistakes and how to recover effectively, rebuild your confidence, and get back into ketosis faster.

 

1. Don’t Panic (or Punish Yourself)

One meal won’t erase weeks or months of progress. 

Feeling guilty can actually trigger more cravings, making it harder to get back on track. Instead, shift your mindset from “I failed” to “this is just something that happened.” 

Everyone has off days; it’s not the end of the world.

Remind yourself that even a slip-up means you’re still in the game: you cared enough to notice and adjust. That awareness alone sets successful keto journeys apart from short-term diets.


2. Hydrate and Replenish Electrolytes

Carbs make your body retain water, and when you go back to keto, you’ll lose that water weight quickly – which also flushes out electrolytes. 

Rehydrate with plenty of water and add electrolytes through sodium, potassium, and magnesium (bone broth or electrolyte powders work great). Sip throughout the day rather than all at once for better absorption. 

If you’re feeling sluggish, remember: fatigue after a slip is normal. It’s just your body recalibrating and shifting back toward fat-burning mode.


3. Focus on Whole, Low-Carb Foods

For your next few meals, go back to the basics: protein, healthy fats, and low-carb veggies. 

Skip packaged keto treats for now and give your body clean fuel to stabilize blood sugar and insulin levels. Think eggs, salmon, avocado, leafy greens, or cauliflower… simple foods your body recognizes.

This is where cheating on keto diet recovery really happens: in the small, consistent choices that remind your body it can rely on fat for fuel again.

After a couple of days of clean eating, your cravings ease up and your energy returns.


Boiled egg, sliced avocado, and spinach on a dark plate, perfect for recovery after a keto mistake.

 

Reset Your Plan Without Starting Over

Here’s how to get back on keto after a slip without turning it into a week-long spiral.


Step 1: Identify What Triggered It

Was it stress? Lack of planning? Emotional eating? Recognizing your trigger helps prevent repeat slips. Write it down if you need to.

If it was social pressure or lack of options, make sure to check out our Keto Holiday Survival Guide for smart party strategies.


Step 2: Plan Your Reset Day

Start fresh the next morning. Not next Monday, not “after the weekend.” Here’s a simple plan for your first 24 hours back on track:

  • Breakfast: Eggs with avocado or bacon.

  • Lunch: Salad with chicken, olive oil, and feta.

  • Dinner: Salmon or steak with a low-carb side dish.

  • Snacks: Hard-boiled eggs, cheese, nuts, or your favorite Keto Bars.

These meals keep you satisfied while helping your body slide back into ketosis faster.


Step 3: Consider a Mini Fast (Optional)

If you feel bloated or sluggish, a short intermittent fast (12–16 hours) can help use up excess glycogen and speed up ketone production. Just listen to your body, and remember: fasting isn’t punishment; it’s a reset tool.

If you want to try this option, check out our guide for intermittent fasting!


Learn From It: Avoiding Future Keto Slip-Ups

Now that you’ve handled the recovery, let’s prevent a repeat. Here’s how to turn this into a learning moment.


1. Prepare for High-Risk Situations

If travel or holidays are coming up, plan ahead. Bring keto-friendly snacks, look up menus before dining out, or offer to bring a dish you can enjoy. 

We’ve got you covered with ideas in the Holiday Guide, so make sure to read it before you head out.


2. Watch for Hidden Carbs

Some of the most common keto diet mistakes aren’t obvious. It’s things like sauces, salad dressings, flavored coffee creamers, “low-carb” bars with hidden sugars – even drinks. 

Get into the habit of checking labels or using a macro-tracking app.


3. Don’t Let One Slip Become a Pattern

It’s tempting to say “I’ll start over on Monday,” but the best recovery happens right away. Each meal is a new opportunity to realign. Remind yourself: you know what to do when you mess up on keto now. So, take what you’ve learned and keep moving forward.


Several bacon strips rolled up and pierced by toothpicks on a wooden platter: a low-carb and high-protein keto snack..

 

The Mindset Shift: Progress Over Perfection

There’s something powerful about realizing you can recover without restarting everything. You don’t have to “burn off” your mistake or punish yourself with deprivation.

Focus instead on why you’re doing keto: your energy, your health, your confidence. Reconnecting to that purpose helps you make better choices naturally.

If your slip happened because of stress or social pressure, try reframing it as self-awareness training. The next time you’re offered Grandma’s bread rolls, you’ll know exactly how to respond: with kindness, gratitude, and a plan.


FAQs – Quick Answers for Common Keto Mistakes

Q: How long does it take to get back into ketosis after a slip?

Typically, 2–4 days if you return to low carb right away, stay hydrated, and avoid hidden sugars. You can speed things up a bit by focusing on protein and healthy fats while limiting carbs to under 20–30 grams per day.

Q: Should I exercise harder to burn off the carbs?

No need to overdo it. In fact, doing too much too soon can raise stress hormones and make recovery harder. Gentle activities like walking or yoga support recovery without spiking cortisol. Once you’re back in ketosis and feeling energized again, you can gradually return to your regular workouts.

Q: Can I still lose weight if I slip occasionally?

Absolutely. Consistency matters far more than perfection; one slip won’t erase your long-term progress. Think of this as a learning moment, not a setback. Many people actually find that recovering from small keto mistakes helps them develop more sustainable habits over time. 


You’ve Got This

So the next time your day doesn’t go perfectly keto, remember: you don’t need to “start over.” You just need to start again.

Keto is a lifestyle, not a tightrope walk. One carb-heavy dinner won’t define your journey. Your ability to bounce back will.


 

Ready to stay steady through the holidays? Check out our Keto Holiday Survival Guide for more recovery tips, party strategies, and keto-friendly recipes everyone will love. 

And, if you want to be up to date on Keto Bars and get fresh tips in your mailbox, don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter below!

 

____


— Mariana Pinhão, in collaboration with Keto Bars.

Mariana is a wellness and nutrition writer who helps brands share trustworthy health content that readers actually enjoy. With a science background and a love for good food and kind living, she brings both accuracy and heart to every piece she writes.

Keto for Intermittent Fasting: Timing, Snacks, and Best Practices

If you are doing keto, you’ve probably heard that intermittent fasting can supercharge your results. But, is this really true? Can you do keto while fasting?

It’s true that intermittent fasting can have great benefits while you are on a keto diet. However, mastering this powerful duo is more than just skipping meals (or not eating) or simply cutting carbs. 

Whether you are new to keto, intermittent fasting, or both, it’s important that you understand how to properly fast while doing keto. Otherwise, you might not get the results that you are after. 

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to snack during fasting, break your fast properly, and create a sustainable intermittent fasting keto plan. 

 

Intermittent fasting concept with clock on green plate and measuring tape symbolizing keto diet and meal timing


What is Intermittent Fasting? 

Intermittent fasting (IF) is a type of eating pattern that cycles between eating periods and fasting. Unlike traditional diets that focus on what you eat, IF emphasizes when you should be eating. 

There are many different forms of practicing intermittent fasting. It is all going to depend on how long you want your fasting hours to be. Here are some of the most common practices: 

  • 16:8 Method: Fast for 16 hours and eat during an 8-hour window. 

  • 18:6 Method: Fast for 18 hours and eat during a 6-hour window. 

  • OMAD (One Meal a Day): Fast for 23 hours and eat one meal a day. 

  • 5:2 Method: Eat like you normally would for 5 days and restrict your calories for 2 days (typically eating 500-600 calories). 

During your fasting windows, you consume only water, black coffee, plain tea, or other zero-calorie beverages. During your eating window, you are allowed to consume your daily calories and nutrients. 

Remember that if you are combining keto with intermittent fasting, you should focus on a high-fat, moderate–protein, and low-carb diet. 

Metabolic Benefits of Combining Keto with Intermittent Fasting

So, what happens if you combine keto with intermittent fasting? You might create several powerful metabolic benefits. 

  • Enhanced Ketosis: Fasting depletes your glycogen stores (your body’s way of storing excess glucose) faster. This helps you to enter ketosis quicker and maintain a deeper level of ketone production. 

  • Improved Insulin Sensitivity: Both keto and IF can independently improve insulin sensitivity. Together, they may help significantly reduce insulin resistance, thereby stabilizing blood sugar levels and reducing cravings. 

  • Accelerated Fat Loss: The combination of keto and IF creates the best conditions for fat breakdown. Keep in mind that both work by promoting a caloric deficit (eating fewer calories than you need). If you still eat more (even if you are doing keto or IF), you might gain weight. 

  • Mental Clarity and Focus: Many people have reported having improved cognitive function. Ketones provide a steady source of energy for the brain, while the fasting periods eliminate the energy crashes that are often associated with frequent meals. 

  • Cellular Autophagy: When you have extended periods of fasting, it triggers autophagy (your body’s natural way of clearing out unwanted cells). In fact, research has shown that this can help support longevity and reduce the risk of certain illnesses. 

Avocado toast on crispbread with sprouts, healthy keto snack for intermittent fasting or low carb meal


How to Break Fast the Right Way 

It doesn’t matter if you follow your fasting hours perfectly; if you don’t know how to break your fast, you might be jeopardizing your results. Here are some tips to help you break your fast properly to stay in ketosis and avoid any digestive discomfort. 

  • Start Small: Begin with a small portion to prevent any stomach issues (especially if you are doing very long fasts). 

  • Prioritize Healthy Fats: Since you are following keto, make sure that fats (which are your primary macronutrient) are present while you break your fast. Some great choices include avocado, nuts, or slices of salmon.

  • Include Quality Protein: Add a moderate amount of high-quality protein like eggs, grass-fed meat, or wild-caught fish to help support muscle mass and satiety. 

  • Reduce Carb Intake: A keto diet doesn’t mean no carbs. It just means that you have a lower intake, usually between 20 and 50 grams. Avoid any simple carbs (sugary foods or drinks) and focus on fiber-rich carbs like leafy greens, tomatoes, or cauliflower. 

  • Hydrate Properly: Make sure that you drink plenty of water. And, if necessary, consider adding some electrolytes. 

The Best Keto Snacks to Have During Your Eating Window

Choosing the right snacks during your eating window is going to help you keep your ketosis while helping you stay satiated. Here are some of the best options: 

  • Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, macadamia nuts, and pumpkin seeds provide healthy fats and protein. Just be careful with the portion size since they can pile on the calories. 

  • Cheese and Dairy: Full-fat cheese, Greek yogurt (unsweetened), and cottage cheese offer protein with a low-fat content. They can be a great pre-workout or post-workout option. 

  • Avocado-Based Snacks: Guacamole with cucumber slices, diced avocado with salt and lime, or an avocado smoothie can be a great snack to add. 

  • Hard-Bioled Eggs: They are the best portable protein option. You can try them with everything bagel seasoning or hot sauce. 

  • Vegetable Chips: Kale chips, zucchini chips, or radish chips provide you with a delicious crunch without adding carbs. You can make them at home or buy them on Amazon

  • Fat Bombs: These treats are usually made with coconut oil, nut butter, and low-carb sweeteners. They are a great way to boost your energy levels and the perfect sweet treat

  • Snack Bars: They are the most convenient option when you need something on the go or when you are too busy to make your own snack.

Final words

Combining keto with intermittent fasting can be a great way to boost your results. However, keep in mind that the results you get from both are going to depend on the food choices you make during your eating window.

When it comes to health and weight loss, remember that consistency matters more than perfection. If you are not used to fasting, start with a small fasting window and start increasing it as you feel more comfortable. This is going to help you achieve long-lasting results. 

If you are looking for the perfect snack to have during your eating window, our premium keto bars are perfectly formulated to fit your macros and satisfy your cravings. They are made with clean ingredients and delicious flavors, making them the best companion for your keto intermittent fasting success. 

— Brenda Peralta, in collaboration with Keto Bars.

Brenda Peralta in collaboration with Keto BarsBrenda Peralta, RDN, CDE, is a Registered Dietitian and Certified Diabetes Educator with nearly a decade of experience helping people achieve their health goals through evidence-based nutrition. She specializes in ketogenic and low-carb diets for weight management, blood sugar control, and overall wellness.

How to Stay on Keto During the Holidays: Your Keto Holiday Survival Guide

The holidays are almost here! Cozy gatherings, sparkling lights, and tables overflowing with treats. But if you’re living the keto lifestyle, you may already know this season can feel like a minefield of carb-heavy temptations. 

Between Grandma’s stuffing, frosted cookies, and champagne toasts, it’s easy to wonder: how do I stay on track with keto without missing out on the joy of the season?

Well, we’ve got some good news: there are plenty of ways to celebrate the season and still keep your keto holidays stress-free. With a little planning, the right mindset, and some delicious keto holiday recipes in your back pocket, you can celebrate without feeling deprived. 

In fact, this season might even become one of your favorites on keto. A time to enjoy satisfying foods, connect with loved ones, and stay aligned with your goals.

In this guide, we’ll explore why holidays can be tricky for keto eaters, share practical strategies for navigating parties and gatherings, and highlight keto-friendly recipes that bring all the festive cheer without the carbs.


Why Holidays Can Be Tough on Keto

The holiday season is joyful, but let’s be real: it also comes with challenges for anyone sticking to a specific eating plan. For keto folks, the hurdles are especially clear:

  • Temptations everywhere. From pumpkin pie and cinnamon rolls to mashed potatoes and carb-heavy casseroles, the table is usually stacked with foods that can quickly push you out of ketosis.

  • Social pressure. Friends and family may encourage you to “just have one bite,” or ask why you’re skipping certain dishes. Sometimes it’s even trickier when it comes from loved ones: like Mom insisting you try her famous stuffing, or Grandma giving you the side-eye when you pass on her bread rolls. 

  • Travel and unpredictable meals. Being away from your kitchen and your usual food routines can make sticking to keto harder.

The key is not to avoid every holiday moment, but to go in prepared. Instead of thinking in terms of restriction, focus on creating a strategy that allows you to enjoy what the season has to offer while still protecting your goals. 


Smart Strategies for Enjoying Your Keto Holidays

1. Plan Ahead

Creamy keto mushroom soup with herbs, a low-carb holiday recipe from Keto Bars

Walking into a party starving and without a strategy is a recipe for disaster. A little preparation goes a long way. 

  • Start by eating a small keto-friendly meal or snack before you head out – something with protein and fat to keep you satisfied.

  • If you’re going to a potluck or family gathering, offer to bring a dish you love. Not only does this guarantee you’ll have something keto and high-protein on your plate, but it also introduces others to the idea that keto holiday recipes can be every bit as festive and delicious.

  • Dining out? Take five minutes to check the menu online so you know your best options. Look for meals centered around protein (like grilled steak, salmon, or chicken) and pair them with low-carb sides such as steamed veggies or a side salad. Many restaurants are open to substitutions, so don’t hesitate to ask for extra greens instead of fries or rice. 

This approach turns holiday events from stressful to enjoyable, because you already know you’ll have something delicious and satisfying on your plate.


2. Focus on Protein & Fat First

When it’s time to fill your plate, head straight for the proteins and healthy fats: roasted turkey, glazed ham, prime rib, cheese platters, deviled eggs, smoked salmon, or low-carb veggie sides drizzled with olive oil or butter. These foods are naturally satisfying and keep your macros in check.

Prioritizing protein and fat not only helps you stay in ketosis but also keeps hunger and cravings at bay. Research shows that protein increases satiety and reduces overall calorie intake compared to carb-heavy meals. 

By choosing nutrient-dense options first, you’ll feel full, energized, and far less tempted by bread, stuffing, or sugary desserts.


3. Navigate Alcohol & Drinks

Stay hydrated with fresh lemon water — an easy keto-friendly drink for the holidays.

Drinks flow freely during the holidays, and many are loaded with hidden carbs. 

Your best bets are dry wines (red or white) and spirits like vodka, gin, tequila, or whiskey (served neat or with soda water). If you’d like something special, check out these keto-friendly cocktails.

Not drinking? You’re not missing out! Sparkling water with lime, flavored seltzers, or festive non-alcoholic keto drinks can keep things fun without sugar overload.

A good rule of thumb: alternate each alcoholic beverage with water or a mocktail. This keeps you hydrated, supports ketosis, and makes it easier to stay in control while still enjoying the party.


4. Handle Social Pressure Gracefully

Sometimes the hardest part of keto holidays (or any holidays) isn’t the food, it’s the people. You may hear: “It’s Christmas/Thanksgiving, just enjoy yourself!”

Here are a few ways to respond kindly but firmly:

  • “No thanks, I’m really enjoying this [insert keto dish you’re eating] – it’s delicious.”

  • “I feel great eating this way. It really works for me.”

  • Or simply change the subject toward the holiday spirit: ask about travel, family traditions, or plans for the New Year.

Shifting the focus away from food helps reinforce that holidays are about connection, not just what’s on your plate.


Keto-Friendly Holiday Recipes to Try

You don’t have to miss out on holiday favorites: you just need keto-friendly swaps. 

Here are some festive ideas to keep your holiday tables joyful and low carb:

Holiday Cheese & Charcuterie Wreath

Holiday keto charcuterie board featuring meats, cheese, nuts, and Keto Bars for a low-carb celebration spread.

Nothing says celebration quite like a charcuterie board, and this one is keto-friendly with a fun surprise. 

Loaded with savory favorites like prosciutto, manchego, olives, and pickled veggies, it also includes a touch of sweetness from chopped Keto Bars and sugar-free cranberries. 

Beautiful to look at and easy to assemble, it’s the perfect centerpiece for holiday parties and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. 

Get the full recipe here.


Instant Pot Loaded Cauliflower Mash

Loaded cauliflower mash with cheese and bacon — a keto-friendly, low-carb comfort food for the holidays.

Cheesy, garlicky, and topped with all the fixings, this Loaded Cauliflower Mash is the ultimate low-carb comfort food. 

Made quickly in the Instant Pot and finished with sour cream, cheddar, and bacon, it’s a satisfying side that rivals mashed potatoes in both texture and flavor. 

At just 10g carbs per serving, it’s a lighter alternative you’ll want on repeat during your keto holidays. 

Get the full recipe here.


Low Carb Peanut Butter Chocolate Dream Bars

Peanut butter chocolate dream bars from Keto Bars — a rich low-carb dessert with creamy frosting.

If you’re craving something decadent, these Peanut Butter Chocolate Dream Bars are pure holiday magic: creamy, crunchy, and chocolatey without the sugar crash. 

With a base made from Keto Bars, a luscious peanut butter–cream cheese layer, and a fluffy whipped cream topping, they’re a showstopper dessert that even non-keto guests will love. 

Plus, at just 3g net carbs per serving, they’re proof that keto holiday recipes can be both festive and guilt-free. 

Get the full recipe here.


These recipes prove that keto holiday recipes aren’t about sacrifice: they’re about creative swaps that taste just as good (if not better) than the originals.


Mindset Matters: Progress Over Perfection

One of the biggest holiday gifts you can give yourself is grace. If you slip up and have a bite of pie or a handful of cookies, don’t spiral into guilt or try to compensate the next day. Simply enjoy the moment, then get back into your keto routine at the next meal.

One meal won’t undo months of progress. What matters most is consistency over time. Staying positive, flexible, and focused on the bigger picture helps you avoid the all-or-nothing mindset that can sabotage long-term success.

And remember: the holidays are ultimately about gratitude, connection, and making memories – not about sticking to a perfect diet.


Long story short…

The holiday season can be one of the most joyful times of the year, and your keto lifestyle doesn’t have to get in the way. With smart planning, a focus on protein and fat, mindful choices about drinks, and a collection of delicious keto holiday recipes, you’ll manage to stay in ketosis AND feel empowered, festive, and satisfied.

So here’s your gentle reminder: keto holidays can be both fun and delicious. You’ve got this!


Want more recipes, practical tips, and inspiration for living keto year-round? Subscribe to our newsletter and get keto holiday recipes and strategies delivered right to your inbox!



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— Mariana Pinhão, in collaboration with Keto Bars.


Mariana is a wellness and nutrition writer who helps brands share trustworthy health content that readers actually enjoy. With a science background and a love for good food and kind living, she brings both accuracy and heart to every piece she writes.

 

Keto Baking Essentials

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, even if you're a fitness enthusiast, can be challenging. This is especially true when it comes to your eating habits if you have a sweet tooth. If you think starting a keto diet means you have to give up delicious baked goods and desserts, think again friends - we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll cover some easy ways to substitute pantry staples so you can continue to bake all your favorite desserts without the guilt!

KETO FRIENDLY SWEETENERS 

SAY NO TO STARCHY VEGGIES

1. Granulated Swerve Sweetener is one of the most popular keto-friendly sweeteners. It’s a good option as it is used and measured just like sugar. Most people don’t experience any aftertaste, although some experience a cooling sensation. This sweetener does contain oligosaccharides, so some people might experience digestive discomfort.

2. Pure Granulated Erythritol is a great alternative for those that experience digestive discomfort from the oligosaccharides found in Swerve. Pure granulated erythritol is around 70% as sweet as sugar. When purchasing erythritol, make sure it’s in a pure form and watch out for sneaky, non-keto-friendly ingredients, such as dextrose or maltodextrin (essentially just other names for types of sugar).

3. Granulated Allulose is a very popular sweetener among keto enthusiasts. Most people say this tastes more like sugar than any other keto-friendly sweetener! Allulose is a non-nutritive sweetener called a rare sugar. It also caramelizes really well (even better than sucrose), and it doesn’t recrystallize in cooled baked goods as erythritol does. Since allulose doesn’t ferment very well in the gut, it may also be a great choice for those that experience digestive problems with Swerve or erythritol. 

KETO FRIENDLY SALTY & SWEETS

GET PICKY WITH YOUR MEAT

1. Lily’s Sugar-Free Dark Chocolate Chips are sweetened with erythritol, inulin, and stevia, and are about the same size and texture as regular chocolate chips. These may be a little pricey, but they are a great option if you really want chocolate chips.

2. Lakanto Chocolate Chips don’t contain inulin, so if you have digestive discomfort with Lily’s chocolate chips, you might want to try these. Lakanto’s chips are sweetened with monk fruit and erythritol. They are slightly sweeter than Lily’s chips.

3. Nuts & Nut Butters 
are popular ingredients when it comes to baking, so be sure to have these available if you plan to make desserts. However, not all nuts (or nut butters) are created equal! To ensure you’re getting your healthy fats, remember to look for macadamia nuts, almonds, pecans, or walnuts, and try to avoid using peanut butter in your recipes. Also, when it comes to these nuts, it’s best to buy nut butters made with real ingredients. 

KETO FRIENDLY FLOURS

BEANS, THE MAGICAL FRUIT

1. Coconut flour is a great way to get a slightly sweet taste to your baked goods while being healthier and not as heavy as traditional flour.

2. Ps yllium husk fiber, although technically not a flour, can occasionally be used in combination with coconut flour to create a more gluten-like texture. It’s useful when baking things like keto bread, rolls, and other thick foods.

OTHER KETO-FRIENDLY INGREDIENTS

FROZEN FRUIT

● Unsweetened Cocoa Powder is a must-have for any pantry, as it’s a great way to get that delicious chocolate-like taste without all the sugar and calories.

● Cinnamon is an underrated seasoning. When fresh, cinnamon has been shown to support gut health, lower blood pressure, and much more.

 Vanilla extract is such an important part of baking! If you want to up your baking game, it’s important to buy real vanilla extract (never imitation). Be sure to check the ingredient list on the back of the bottle to make sure you’re getting the real deal and not anything packed with artificial sugars. Look for “organic vanilla extract” or something similar.

● Collagen Peptides have a lot of great benefits. These are especially prevalent when taken in the morning, potentially in coffee or a smoothie. It’s also a sweet (pun intended) addition to keto baking recipes. Plus, collagen can have various flavors which will give your dish a little extra sweetness!

 Real heavy cream powder is one of the main ingredients in a lot of popular recipes. It’s great because you don’t have to refrigerate it or worry about a short shelf-life like you do with regular cream.

 Pork Rinds have always been popular in low-carb diets, but some people forget that they act as a great substitute in a lot of recipes. You can grab unflavored or lightly salted pork rinds and crush them up for cheesecake crusts or use them as a filler for your cereal.

● An important part of a keto diet is removing any inflammatory foods and oils, which is why Avocado or Flaxseed Oil are the best oils to consume. Studies have shown that other oils, like corn and soybean, are high in Omega-6, which can cause chronic inflammation.

● Not surprisingly, baking soda is a must-have when mixing up those tasty desserts! Be sure to use fresh baking soda when baking. Quick Tip: If you’re not getting great results with your food, old baking soda could be to blame so keep an eye on that expiration date!

● Baking Powder (like baking soda) is important so be sure to replace your baking powder regularly for the best results.

● Luckily you don’t have to worry about weird processed ingredients with baking paper like Parchment Paper or Aluminum Foil! These are super important to have on hand. You never know when you’ll have to make a quick batch of brownies!


As you can see, there are lots of great substitutions for flour, sugar, and baking oils when following a low-carb diet. As with most things, some might work better for you than others, so don’t forget the best part of baking: trial and error! Learning how to bake while on a ketogenic diet might take some time, patience, and experimenting, but once you understand what ingredients to use, you can really indulge and treat yourself without feeling guilty. After all, just because you’re focusing more on your health and wellness, doesn’t mean you have to hate the foods you eat. Happy baking and stay healthy friends!

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