Grits are a traditional Southern dish made from ground corn that have become popular throughout the United States. They are often served as a breakfast food, but can also be eaten as a side dish or used in recipes like shrimp and grits. But the question on many people’s minds is: are grits keto diet friendly?
To answer this question, it’s important to understand what the ketogenic diet is and how it works. The keto diet is a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet that is designed to put the body into a state of ketosis. In ketosis, the body burns fat for fuel instead of carbohydrates, which can lead to weight loss and other health benefits.
So, are grits compatible with the keto diet? The short answer is no, grits are not keto diet friendly. While grits are made from corn, which is a grain, they are also high in carbohydrates. One cup of cooked grits contains about 40 grams of carbohydrates, which is significantly higher than the recommended daily intake for the keto diet.
However, this doesn’t mean that you can’t occasionally enjoy grits while on the keto diet. If you’re craving grits and don’t want to completely give them up, there are a few things you can do to make them more keto friendly.
How to make Grits more Keto friendly?
First, you can try using a low-carb alternative to cornmeal to make your grits. There are several options available, including almond flour, coconut flour, and even ground flaxseed. These alternatives can help reduce the carbohydrate content of your grits while still providing a similar texture and flavor.
Another option is to simply reduce the portion size of your grits. Instead of having a full cup of grits, try cutting it down to a half cup or even a quarter cup. This will significantly reduce the amount of carbohydrates you’re consuming, making it easier to fit grits into your keto diet.
It’s also important to consider the other ingredients you’re using with your grits. If you’re adding high-carb toppings like syrup or honey, it’s best to skip them while on the keto diet. Instead, try topping your grits with butter, cheese, or bacon for added flavor and a boost of healthy fats.
In summary, grits are not keto diet friendly due to their high carbohydrate content. However, it’s possible to enjoy grits occasionally on the keto diet by using low-carb alternatives, reducing portion sizes, and being mindful of other ingredients. As with any food, it’s important to be aware of how it fits into your overall diet and to make choices that support your health and wellness goals.
Photo by charlesdeluvio on Unsplash
Be the first to reply