Eating foods from around the world is one of life's great pleasures. It allows you to feel connected to a different culture, imagine life in another country and taste new flavors. However, it can be tricky to try new foods when you’re following a particular diet.
The very low-carb keto diet is a popular lifestyle for weight loss. Many Italian food lovers are wary of a diets like this, as their favorite cuisine features so much pasta and bread. However, there are plenty of keto diet friendly foods that are deliciously low carb.
The Keto Basics
The keto diet is similar to a standard low-carb diet, with one major difference: Most low-carb diets (such as Atkins, South Beach or Paleo) rely on protein as the main food source. The keto diet relies on fat and refers to a scientific process called ketosis. When we cut carbohydrates out of our diet and consume mainly fat, the body begins to produce a molecule called a ketone. Ketones work as a special fuel that feeds entirely off fat cells. Once the body is producing ketones, fat and weight is quickly burned off.
The Big No-No's
●Any flour products (bread, pasta, crackers, etc.)
●Sugar
●Legumes
●Potatoes
●Grains (rice, oats, corn, etc.)
●Fruit (a tiny bit is okay as a treat)
●Beer
OK, But Take It Easy
●Root vegetables
●Milk
●Wine and low-carb spirits
●Nuts
What are keto foods?
Once you’ve cut the sugars and starches from your life, you can indulge in all your favorite, naturally high-fat foods.
●Oil
●Fish, meat and poultry
●High fat dairy (cheese, butter, whipping cream)
●Eggs
●Above-ground vegetables
Thankfully, there are countless types of cheese to enjoy! From classic pecorino to more exotic flavors like black truffle or red pepper cheddar, there plenty of cheeses that will keep your keto diet tasty and exciting. Add some salami or prosciutto to the mix and you've got the makings of an excellent charcuterie board!