It’s no secret that the ketogenic diet is gaining in popularity these days. By eschewing carbs in favor of fats and proteins, participants induce a state known as ketosis, in which the body begins burning stored fat rather than sugars for energy. Studies show that keto can help dieters lose weight while decreasing levels of blood sugar and LDL cholesterol. In the long-term, a ketogenic diet can boost cardiovascular health while reducing overall inflammation.
While keto offers many health benefits, adhering to this diet can be a challenge. Because the goal of keto is to reduce or eliminate consumption of carbs and sugars, those of us with a sweet tooth may struggle to avoid slip ups. Fortunately, the Internet is full of creatively minded dieters who can offer tips for following keto without sacrificing sweets. In fact, a recent People article highlights one particular Starbucks beverage known for being keto friendly. This secret drink is currently making the rounds on social media and might just be the perfect addition to your keto meal plan.
1. Low-Fructose Fruits
2. Chocolate-Chip Cookies (With a Twist)
3. Pound Cake
4. Dark Chocolate
5. Sugar-Free Jello
6. Atkins Snacks
7. Nut Butter
8. Roasted Cashews with Cinnamon
9. Cheese Platter
So, what is this secret beverage that’s turning heads? It might not be on the official menu, but this keto tea is a creamy, sweet way to indulge without falling out of keto. You just have to know how to order it.
If you’ve been missing your daily Caramel Macchiato since embarking on a keto diet, Starbucks’ unsweetened Peach Citrus White Tea might be what you’re craving. Created by a customer, this chilly treat features ice, heavy cream, two to four pumps of sugar-free vanilla syrup, and no water. Request that the barista blend the beverage and top it with a dollop of whipped cream. The end result is sweat and fresh with a peaches-and-cream flavor that will have you coming back for more. Best of all, this drink is keto friendly, so you don’t have to worry about falling out of ketosis and ruining all your hard work. According to People, this drink has already appeared in more than 2,000 Instagram posts featuring the hashtags whitedrink and peachcitruswhitetea.
Want to make this keto-friendly drink even healthier and more delicious? Blend up a batch in your home blender using grass-fed organic cream and fresh peaches rather than a flavored syrup sweetener.
While there are plenty of keto-friendly appetizers and entrees, desserts can be difficult. After all, the whole point of keto is to stop consuming sugar and start eating more fats and proteins. Doing this enables the body to produce more ketones and enter the state of ketosis, when it burns fat instead of glucose. Here are some more options for satisfying your sweet tooth while following a keto diet.
Think that a piece of fruit is the perfect ending to a meal? While certain fruits contain a large amount of sugar, many of your favorites are keto-friendly dessert options. Consider satiating your dessert urge with a bowl of berries (strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries are all good options). Add a dollop of sugar-free whipped cream for a sweet treat even the kids will appreciate.
Who doesn’t love a warm chocolate chip cookie dipped in a glass of ice-cold milk? Make your next batch more keto friendly by using a higher caliber of chocolate (85% cocoa) and an egg. Check out this protein-packed recipe that utilizes almond flour instead of traditional AP and skips on the carbs.
Traditional pound cake is packed with sugar (literally a pound’s worth!), but you can make a keto-friendly alternative using eggs and sour cream. Take a look at this recipe that’s full of healthy fats.
Of course, you don’t have to be a baker to enjoy a sweet treat that’s keto friendly. Dark and Stevia-sweetened chocolates are acceptable on keto, provided you’re consuming a high-quality chocolate that’s free of added sugars. If you tend to favor milk and white chocolates, it might take you some time to adjust to the stronger flavor. Stick to high-end brands like Ghirardelli and Lindt, and you’ll be a dark chocolate convert in no time.
With its bright colors and jiggly consistency, Jello is a fun food for kids of all ages. While the traditional treat is packed with sugars, you can opt for the sugar-free version and enjoy a bowl without breaking your keto diet.
Don’t have time to whip up a keto-friendly dessert or even a bowl of Jello? Toss an Atkins bar in your purse or backpack, and you’re ready to hit the road. Packed with protein and fiber, these bars have altered their recipe in recent years to alleviate that fake sugar flavor. As a bonus, this sweet treat will keep you energized through a workout or fill you up when you don’t have time for lunch.
Peanut butter is a versatile food perfect for breakfast, lunch, or an afternoon snack. And while many of the store-bought brands are packed with sugar and artificial ingredients, there are also plenty of natural peanut butters on the market. Full of healthy fats and proteins, these treats are great on their own or with fruit. Not a fan of peanuts? Opt for a nut butter made from cashews, almonds, macadamia nuts, or even walnuts.
Speaking of nuts, you can also enjoy this hearty snack roasted in the oven. Simply brush some cashews with olive oil and sprinkle them with cinnamon. Roast and enjoy.
Who says dessert has to be sweet? The finest French restaurants often serve up a cheese plate at the end of the meal, and you can do the same in your own home. Pick up a selection of cheese at your local supermarket and serve with fresh berries. Want to get fancy? Hit up a neighborhood cheese shop and ask the clerk for yummy recommendations. The end result is sure to be delicious and keto friendly.
Whether or not you’re a Starbucks addict, you don’t have to give up your favorite sweet treats just because you’re trying to live healthier. With a little creative ingenuity, you can find foods that satisfy your sweet tooth and your dietary requirements.
For more keto-friendly recipes, click here.