A diet is an eating plan to help you maintain a healthy body. An example is the keto diet, a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet that encourages your body to enter a state of ketosis, where it starts to burn fat instead of carbohydrates for energy. Of course, like any other diet, the keto diet requires you to be consistent and avoid certain foods, particularly fast food.
However, this does not mean a person cannot eat fast food entirely. Many fast food restaurants offer menu combos considered keto, especially since many fast food restaurants now offer healthier options. For instance, some fast food restaurants may offer grilled chicken or fish as a protein source, with a side salad and no-carb dressing as a side dish. Of course, some are arguably healthier than others, making them excellent choices for a keto diet.
With this in mind, here are some of the best fast food choices if you are on keto:
1. Bunless Burgers
Everyone knows almost all fast food chains serve a burger or something close to it. A bunless burger may seem ridiculous (no one in their right mind would eat a burger without a bun), but it is one of the best fast food options for those following a keto diet. A bunless burger is simply a hamburger patty without the bun. To make it even better, opt for a burger with no condiments or sauces (ketchup and mayo are off-limits). Instead, go for a burger with lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles as toppings.
Not only is a bunless burger a great keto fast food option, but it is also a healthier alternative to traditional burgers. Most fast food buns are filled with carbs and unhealthy fats and do nothing to fill you up. Without the bun, the burger will have fewer carbs and more protein. Plus, you will get the bonus of extra veggies. The only downside is that you may get nasty looks, but at least you are healthy!
2. Egg-Based Breakfast Meals
Many fast food restaurants offer breakfast meals 24/7, so egg-based breakfast meals are an excellent option for those following a keto diet. The key is to watch out for added carbs and sugars. Some breakfast sandwiches come with bread or a biscuit, so be sure to ask for it without. A great keto-friendly breakfast is an egg and cheese sandwich with bacon, sausage, or ham. You can also opt for a breakfast burrito with eggs, cheese, and meat, but just make sure you skip the tortilla.
3. Low-Carb Burrito Bowl
A low-carb burrito bowl is an excellent keto fast food option. It is a deconstructed burrito without the tortilla but with all the same delicious ingredients. Start by ordering a bowl and asking for no rice or beans. You can then add your choice of meat, like steak, chicken, or pork. Load it with plenty of vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, peppers, and onions. Add a few tablespoons of cheese, some guacamole, and a few slices of jalapeno peppers. This meal is packed with protein, healthy fats, and fiber, making it an excellent choice for those following a keto diet.
4. Low-Carb Salads
Salads are an excellent option for those following a keto diet, as long as you watch out for added carbs and sugars. Order a salad with no croutons or added sugars, like honey or balsamic vinegar, then ask for a low-carb dressing, like olive oil and vinegar. Alternatively, you can get a creamy ranch or Caesar dressing.
For protein, you can add grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp. Load up on plenty of vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and onions, and you can also add full-fat cheeses like feta or cheddar. You can add some nuts and seeds for added crunch and flavor.
5. Coffee with Cream
In the beverage department, coffee with cream is an excellent choice for those on the keto diet. Coffee is naturally low in carbohydrates, and the added cream can provide a hit of healthy fats to help keep energy levels up during the day. Those who want to stay in ketosis must choose full-fat cream rather than skim milk or low-fat creamers, as these contain more carbohydrates.
6. Sweet Milkshakes
There is no better drink for keto than a sweet, creamy milkshake. While milkshakes are usually full of sugar and other carbohydrates, they can easily be adapted to fit a ketogenic diet. When choosing a milkshake, opt for full-fat dairy products like heavy cream or full-fat Greek yogurt instead of skim milk and low-fat ice cream. For added sweetness, use a sugar-free sweetener like stevia or monk fruit. Toppings like sugar-free chocolate syrup or sugar-free whipped cream can also be used for added flavor.
Conclusion
Just because you are on a keto diet does not mean you can deprive yourself of fast food. Finding keto-appropriate fast food choices will be tricky, but it is possible if you ask. This way, you can get your fast food fix while still maintaining your keto diet.
If you want keto diet recipes, Keto Diet Yum has what you need! We offer many delicious yet healthy breakfast, snack, or dessert recipes to help you jumpstart your keto journey. Mail us today at [email protected] and allow us to help you!
