The keto diet, sometimes referred to as the ketone diet or ketosis diet, has taken the weight loss world by storm in the last decade or so. But one of the challenges – as with many diets – is coming up with a diet meal plan you can stick to. We’re here to help!
It is worth noting that this article mentions both meat and plant-based options. However, if you are a vegetarian or vegan, there is absolutely nothing to stop you going keto.
Simply refer to our articles, Can I do the keto diet as a vegetarian? and How vegans and vegetarians can do the keto diet on the Health Hub for more information.
Skip to: Keto diet for beginners | Keto breakfast weekly plan | Keto lunch meal prep | Keto dinner weekly plan | Keto desserts | Keto snacks | 5 tips for keto beginners
First, let’s take a quick look at the basics of a keto diet and what it involves. In a nutshell, a ketogenic plan aims to push your body into ketosis, a natural occurrence whereby it switches from burning sugar (glucose) to burning fat.1
Let’s look at a typical ketosis meal plan. Essentially, what you are looking for in a good ketosis meal plan is foods which are high in protein and carb free.
While guidance does vary, it is generally agreed that in the first two weeks of the diet, you will want to eat fewer than 20g of carbs per day in order to kick-start ketosis.3 After that, you can start increasing the amount of carbs you eat slowly, up to around 50g per day.4
One of the wonderful things about a keto diet, compared with a low-fat diet, is that it can often feel very luxurious: you are allowed plenty of full-fat dairy!
Some say breakfast is the most important meal of the day, for good reason. A hearty breakfast should give you the energy and nutrients you need to keep you going throughout the day.
Keto breakfasts are usually high in protein which is brilliant because research suggests that the daily addition of a high-protein breakfast could help to curb cravings.5
When you are trying to follow any type of diet, trying to source a suitable lunch on-the-go is one of the main dilemmas you might face.
One way to avoid this predicament is by effectively meal-prepping your keto lunches. By planning and preparing your meals in advance, you’re guaranteed a nourishing and gratifying lunch while keeping on track with your dietary goals.
Just because you are on a diet doesn’t mean you can’t feel satisfied, full, and happy after your main evening meal!
If you find yourself in need of inspiration for your weeknight keto-friendly dinners, we’ve got some mouth-watering suggestions that will breathe new life into your mid-week menu:
While the keto diet can be restrictive in some ways, a major bonus is that you can still enjoy naughty treats and full-fat dairy. While you do need to avoid sugar and carbs, these are some of the tasty keto-approved desserts you can enjoy:
Snacking is encouraged on the keto diet, albeit with some rules. Some of the best keto diet snacks include:
Most people would advise those trying the keto diet also to take a supplement to make up for some of the vitamins and minerals the body is used to getting via carbohydrates.
Of course, Holland and Barrett has you covered in this department! Simply check out The best keto supplements – revealed on the Health Hub!
1
Meal prepping is a valuable tool for dieting, especially when you are just starting out. It allows you to plan and control your macro intake, ensure you are eating the right size portions and can often lead to much healthier choices.
By prepping meals, you avoid impulsive food decisions, save time, reduce stress, and most importantly, maintain consistency.
2
Following a keto diet can be challenging while dining out, particularly if you are a beginner.
Many restaurant dishes are high in carbohydrates, making it difficult to find suitable options. Hidden sugars and additives in sauces and dressings, limited menu choices, and the temptation of indulgent desserts can make sticking to your keto diet a daunting task, but it’s not impossible.
Try to do your research first and scope out the menu beforehand. Olives, nuts and charcuterie plates are brilliant keto-friendly nibbles to kick off your meal. Then stick with high protein mains like a chicken Ceasar salad, steak, or grilled fish, and swap out starchy, carb-heavy sides for vegetables if possible.
Although desserts may be best avoided, a savoury cheese board makes a satisfying alternative if you are still feeling peckish at the end of your meal.
3
Understanding macros and tracking them is key for achieving ketosis.
Macros, short for macronutrients, refer to carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. To track them, use a food diary or mobile app.
While keto generally follows a low-carb, moderate-protein, and high-fat ratio, we recommend using an online keto macro calculator to work out a personal macro plan based on your goals. Focus on whole foods, read labels, and adjust portions accordingly.
Remember, it's a learning process, so be patient and enjoy the journey!
If you are looking for more advice about how to calculate your macros, check out our handy guide on the health hub.
4
When following a keto diet, it's crucial to be mindful of hidden sugars lurking in unexpected places like condiments.
Common culprits include ketchup, BBQ sauce, and sweet chilli sauce. Read labels diligently, opt for sugar-free or low-carb alternatives, or swap for keto-approved sauces like mustard, mayo, sour cream or hot sauce!
5
Don't give up on your keto journey too soon! Remember, meaningful change takes time. It can seem impossible at times but embrace the process, learn from setbacks, and celebrate small victories along the way.
Joined Holland & Barrett: Jan 2018
Bsc in Nutrition, Registered Associate Nutritionist and Certification in Pre and Post Natal Nutrition
Donia started her career as a freelance nutritionist, later she joined Nestle as their Market Nutritionist to help support their healthier product range, before joining the team at Holland & Barrett in January 2018.
Donia has over 6 years experience as a Nutritionist and also works with clients on a one to one basis to support their goals which include weight loss, prenatal and postnatal nutrition and children’s health.