The ketogenic (keto) diet is a low-carb, high-fat eating plan where daily carbohydrate intake is often limited to under 20-50 grams. Some fruits, high in fiber, contain fewer net carbs, as fiber doesn't contribute to the total carb count. Below are 9 nutritious, keto-friendly fruits that can be included in a ketogenic diet:
1. Avocados
Although typically used as a vegetable, avocados are botanically fruits. They are rich in heart-healthy fats and low in net carbs, offering just 1.5 grams of net carbs per 3.5-ounce (100-gram) serving. They also provide essential nutrients such as vitamin K, folate, vitamin C, and potassium.
2. Watermelon
Watermelon is a hydrating, low-carb fruit perfect for keto. A 1-cup (152-gram) serving has about 11 grams of net carbs and is a good source of vitamins C, potassium, and lycopene, an antioxidant that helps reduce cell damage.
3. Strawberries
Strawberries are low in carbs and high in fiber, making them suitable for a keto diet. One cup (152 grams) contains 8.7 grams of net carbs and is packed with antioxidants, vitamin C, manganese, and folate.
4. Lemons
Lemons are a great addition to a ketogenic diet, with only 4 grams of net carbs per fruit. Rich in pectin fiber, they help stabilize blood sugar and fight inflammation, in addition to providing vitamin C, potassium, and B6.
5. Tomatoes
Botanically a fruit, tomatoes are low in carbs, offering only 5 grams of net carbs per 1-cup (180-gram) serving. They are also packed with antioxidants such as lycopene and beta-carotene, which provide several health benefits.
6. Raspberries
Raspberries are one of the healthiest berries, providing just 7 grams of net carbs per 1-cup (123-gram) serving. They’re rich in vitamin C, manganese, vitamin K, and copper, along with potent antioxidants that reduce inflammation.
7. Peaches
Peaches, a juicy stone fruit, have 12.2 grams of net carbs per cup (154 grams). They are also a good source of vitamin C, A, potassium, and niacin, and can be linked to improved heart health, according to some studies.
8. Cantaloupe
Cantaloupe, a type of muskmelon, has 11.2 grams of net carbs per 1-cup (156-gram) serving. It’s packed with folate, potassium, vitamin K, and beta carotene, making it a nutritious choice for a keto diet.
9. Star Fruit
Star fruit, or carambola, is a low-carb tropical fruit with only 4.3 grams of net carbs per 1-cup (108-gram) serving. It’s also high in vitamin C, copper, potassium, and pantothenic acid.
These fruits are rich in essential nutrients and can easily be incorporated into a well-planned ketogenic diet while keeping net carbs in check.