What are some healthy dinner options for diabetics following a low-carb or keto diet. How can these meals help manage blood sugar levels. Which ingredients are best for creating diabetic-friendly, low-carb dinners.

Understanding Low-Carb Diets for Diabetics

For individuals with diabetes, managing carbohydrate intake is crucial for maintaining stable blood sugar levels. Low-carb diets, including the ketogenic diet, have gained popularity as effective approaches for blood sugar control. But how do these diets work for diabetics?

Low-carb diets typically restrict carbohydrate intake to varying degrees. While a standard diabetic meal plan might allow 20-50 grams of carbs per meal, the ketogenic diet is much more restrictive, often limiting daily carb intake to just 20 grams during the initial phase. This drastic reduction in carbohydrates forces the body to enter a state of ketosis, where it burns fat for fuel instead of glucose.

For diabetics, adopting a low-carb approach can offer several benefits:

• Improved blood sugar control
• Reduced need for insulin or diabetes medications
• Weight loss
• Increased insulin sensitivity

However, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before making significant changes to your diet, especially if you have diabetes. Your doctor can help determine the appropriate carbohydrate intake for your individual needs and monitor your progress.

The Importance of Choosing Quality Carbohydrates

When following a low-carb diet for diabetes management, the quality of carbohydrates consumed becomes even more critical. Which types of carbs should diabetics prioritize in their meals?

Focusing on whole-food carbohydrates is essential. These include:

• Non-starchy vegetables (e.g., leafy greens, broccoli, cauliflower)
• Low-glycemic fruits (e.g., berries, avocados)
• Low-fat dairy products
• Legumes (in moderation)

These sources provide essential nutrients, fiber, and have a minimal impact on blood sugar levels compared to refined carbohydrates. By choosing these high-quality carbs, diabetics can make the most of their limited carbohydrate intake while still maintaining a balanced diet.

15 Mouthwatering Low-Carb Dinner Recipes for Diabetics

Ready to explore some delicious and diabetes-friendly dinner options? Here are 15 low-carb recipes that are perfect for managing blood sugar levels while satisfying your taste buds:

1. Butter Chicken Spaghetti Squash Boats

This creative twist on the classic Indian dish replaces high-carb rice with nutrient-rich spaghetti squash. The squash provides a satisfying texture while keeping carbs low, and the protein-packed chicken helps stabilize blood sugar levels.

2. Grilled Chicken Quinoa Burrito Bowls

While quinoa does contain carbs, it’s a nutrient-dense whole grain that can be incorporated in moderation. This recipe balances the quinoa with plenty of low-carb vegetables and lean protein for a well-rounded meal.

3. Low-Carb Mexican Cauliflower Rice Skillet

Cauliflower rice is a versatile low-carb substitute for regular rice. This Mexican-inspired skillet meal is packed with flavor and nutrients without the blood sugar spike.

4. 15-Minute Cauliflower Fried Rice

Another take on cauliflower rice, this quick and easy recipe mimics the flavors of traditional fried rice without the carbs. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a fast, diabetes-friendly meal.

5. Diabetic-Friendly Lasagna

Who says lasagna is off-limits for diabetics? This recipe uses thin slices of zucchini in place of pasta sheets, creating a delicious low-carb version of the Italian classic.

6. Skinny Bell Pepper Nachos

Craving nachos? This creative recipe uses bell pepper slices as the “chips,” topped with seasoned ground beef and a modest amount of cheese. It’s a great way to satisfy that nacho craving without the carbs.

7. Italian Chicken and Vegetables Sheet Pan Dinner

Sheet pan dinners are convenient and customizable. This Italian-inspired version features lean chicken and a medley of low-carb vegetables, all roasted to perfection.

8. Avocado and Black Bean Salad

While beans do contain carbs, they’re also high in fiber and protein, making them a good choice in moderation. This salad combines black beans with creamy avocado and crisp vegetables for a satisfying meal.

9. Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry

Cabbage is an excellent low-carb vegetable that adds bulk and nutrients to meals. This simple stir-fry combines it with chicken for a quick and healthy dinner option.

10. Chicken Taco Salad

This deconstructed taco salad lets you enjoy all the flavors of tacos without the high-carb shell. Load up on lettuce, seasoned chicken, and your favorite low-carb toppings.

The Benefits of Meal Prepping for Diabetics

Meal prepping can be a game-changer for diabetics following a low-carb diet. Why is meal prepping particularly beneficial for those managing diabetes?

Preparing meals in advance offers several advantages:

• Ensures consistent portion control
• Reduces the temptation to make unhealthy food choices
• Saves time during busy weekdays
• Allows for better planning and carb counting
• Reduces stress around meal times

Many of the recipes mentioned above are excellent candidates for meal prep. They can be prepared in larger quantities, portioned out, and either refrigerated for a few days or frozen for longer-term storage. This approach makes it easier to stick to a low-carb meal plan and maintain stable blood sugar levels throughout the week.

Additional Low-Carb Dinner Ideas for Diabetics

Looking for more dinner inspiration? Here are five more delicious low-carb recipes perfect for diabetics:

11. Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken

This set-it-and-forget-it meal is perfect for busy days. The slow cooker tenderizes the chicken while infusing it with zesty lemon and garlic flavors. Serve with a side of roasted low-carb vegetables for a complete meal.

12. Baked Chicken Fajita Roll-Ups

These colorful roll-ups pack all the flavors of fajitas into a neat, low-carb package. Bell peppers and onions are rolled inside thinly sliced chicken breast, then baked to perfection.

13. Easy Chicken Salad with Herbs

This refreshing chicken salad is perfect for warm evenings. The addition of fresh herbs elevates the flavors, while celery and nuts add a satisfying crunch. Serve it over a bed of greens or in lettuce wraps for a low-carb meal.

14. Chicken Enchilada Zucchini Boats

Another creative use of vegetables as a carb substitute, these zucchini boats are filled with a spicy chicken enchilada mixture. It’s a great way to enjoy Mexican flavors while keeping carbs in check.

15. Low-Carb Chili

Who says chili needs beans? This hearty low-carb version is packed with meat and vegetables, delivering all the comforting flavors of traditional chili without the extra carbs.

Adapting to a Low-Carb Lifestyle with Diabetes

Transitioning to a low-carb diet can be challenging, especially for those accustomed to a higher carb intake. How can diabetics successfully adapt to this new way of eating?

Here are some strategies to make the transition smoother:

1. Start gradually: Reduce carbs slowly over time to allow your body to adjust.
2. Focus on adding, not just subtracting: Emphasize increasing your intake of non-starchy vegetables and healthy fats.
3. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help your body adapt to the new diet.
4. Monitor your blood sugar closely: Work with your healthcare provider to adjust medications as needed.
5. Plan ahead: Meal prep and always have low-carb snacks on hand to avoid temptations.
6. Be patient: It may take time for your body to fully adapt to burning fat for fuel instead of carbs.

Remember, a low-carb diet doesn’t have to be boring or restrictive. With the right recipes and approach, it can be a delicious and satisfying way to manage your diabetes and improve overall health.

The Role of Exercise in a Low-Carb Diabetic Lifestyle

While diet plays a crucial role in managing diabetes, exercise is equally important. How does physical activity complement a low-carb diet for diabetics?

Regular exercise offers numerous benefits for individuals with diabetes:

• Improves insulin sensitivity
• Helps lower blood sugar levels
• Aids in weight management
• Reduces the risk of cardiovascular complications
• Boosts overall energy and mood

When combined with a low-carb diet, exercise can enhance the body’s ability to use fat for fuel, potentially leading to better blood sugar control and reduced need for diabetes medications. However, it’s important to monitor blood sugar levels closely when starting a new exercise regimen, as physical activity can affect insulin needs.

Aim for a mix of aerobic exercises (like walking, cycling, or swimming) and strength training for the best results. Always consult with your healthcare provider before significantly changing your exercise routine, especially if you have any diabetes-related complications.

Navigating Social Situations on a Low-Carb Diabetic Diet

One of the challenges of following a low-carb diet for diabetes management is navigating social situations and eating out. How can diabetics stick to their meal plan while still enjoying social gatherings?

Here are some strategies to help you stay on track:

1. Plan ahead: If possible, check the menu beforehand and decide on a low-carb option.
2. Don’t be afraid to make special requests: Most restaurants are happy to accommodate dietary needs.
3. Focus on protein and vegetables: These are usually safe choices in most restaurants.
4. Bring a dish to share at gatherings: This ensures you’ll have at least one low-carb option available.
5. Eat a small low-carb snack before events: This can help curb hunger and reduce temptation.
6. Stay hydrated: Sometimes thirst can be mistaken for hunger.
7. Be open about your dietary needs: Let friends and family know about your low-carb approach to gain their support.

Remember, occasional indulgences won’t derail your progress. The key is to return to your low-carb plan at the next meal. With practice, navigating social situations while maintaining a low-carb diabetic diet becomes easier and more intuitive.

Low Carb Meals for Diabetics | Keto Meals that Reduce Blood Sugar

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 If you are going Keto or counting carbs, finding great tasting and healthy meals can be time-consuming and difficult. While a diabetic may be advised to have anywhere from 20-50 or more carbs per meal, the Keto diet recommends in the first phase only 20 carbs per day. Low carb meals for diabetics are a safe place to start.

It is important to consult with your doctor to determine just how to incorporate low carb meals for diabetics each day. There are easy to make low carb meals for diabetics that are perfect for doing meal prep, making it so easy to stick to your keto meal plan!

The type of carbohydrate you use is important as well. If your health care provider recommends a Keto or modified Keto diet to help you lose weight or control your Diabetes you will want to make those carbs count.

Be sure to get our Keto Food Shopping List eBook to make grocery shopping and meal planning easy peasy!

Aim for whole-food carbs like fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy. Keto friendly recipes can be a great addition to your diet and can help you manage your carbs even if you do not go truly Keto.

If you need to use a low-carb diet to control your diabetes or to help keep blood sugar levels stable, these low carb meals for diabetics will put a tasty and healthy meal on your table.

It’s not easy living with a health condition that affects your eating habits. Everyone knows to avoid certain things, it’s not hard to pass up a plate of dirt. We all know not to eat dirt. But it could be hard to discern the difference between actual edible food.

Eating healthy in general is a safe bet but even that could be dangerous depending on what type of diabetes you have. 

Butter Chicken Spaghetti Squash Boats | I Food Real

Grilled Chicken Quinoa Burrito Bowls | Cooking Classy

Low Carb Mexican Cauliflower Rice Skillet | All Day I Dream About Food

15 Minute Cauliflower Fried Rice | Saffron Trail

Diabetic Lasagna Recipe | Living Sweet Moments

Low Carb Meals for Diabetics

Low carb meals are a bit different than most healthy meals. These meals are ones that focus on the nutritional value of each ingredient rather than the overall nutritional value of the dish. This is why these recipes are so valuable to those with diabetes. But the difference isn’t noticeable.

These recipes are recipes everyone can enjoy without noticing those missing carbs. The important thing is that diabetics keep an eye on their blood sugar levels while on a low carb diet as things may fluctuate. The point of eating low carb is to get healthy not put your life at risk. 

Skinny Bell Peppers Nachos | Skinny Ms

Italian Chicken and Vegetables Sheet Pan Dinner | Yellow Bliss Road

Avocado and Black Bean Salad | Gimme Delicious

Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry | Skinny Points

Chicken Taco Salad | Diabetes Meal Plans

Meals for Diabetics Prep

People who eat low carb also enjoy meal prep. This makes eating right so much easier. You can make any of these recipes ahead of time, freeze, and heat them up when it’s time to eat. You could even take these meals for diabetics with you on-the-go so that you have healthy lunches at work or healthy meals while on a road trip.

Every one of these meals can be cooked this way and they will taste just as good heated up as it would freshly cooked. In fact, this is a wonderful way to stay prepared and on track throughout the week, every week. Having a meal ready to go takes a lot of the pain out of dieting. 

If you are diabetic and want to lose weight, you might be considering the Keto diet. There are two things to consider: the number of carbs per day and type of carbs. You could also use as many of these meals for diabetics as you’d like. 

Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken – Diabetic Recipe | Just a Pinch

Baked Chicken Fajita Roll-Ups | Eat Yourself Skinny

Easy Chicken Salad with Herbs | Wholesome Yum

Chicken Enchilada Zucchini Boats | Blog Lovin

Low Carb Chili | The Low Carb Diet

More Low Carb Meals

High Protein Low Carb Recipes for Breakfast | Protein is a great source of energy and using high protein breakfast recipes means a punch of energy in the morning.  

Low Carb Chocolate Dessert Recipes | Keto Chocolate Dessert Recipes | Low carb desserts don’t skimp on chocolate and that is amazing.

Crockpot Keto Side Dishes | Slow Cooker Low Carb Side Dishes | There are keto recipes for every part of the meal, even the side dishes. 

Easy Crock Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe | Low Carb Slow Cooker Tortilla Soup | Spicing things up with your diet plan is easier with tortilla soup. 

Low Carb Bread Recipes for the Bread Machine | There are bread recipes for weight loss that actually help you lose weight.

Ketogenic Crockpot Bacon and Chicken Recipe | Low Carb Chicken and Bacon | Low carb bacon recipes are the sole reason many of us go keto. Bacon!

Instant Pot Keto Chicken Recipes {Low Carb Recipes} | Chicken is such an easy protein to utilize when you pencil that into your meal plan recipes. 

On the Go Keto Snacks | Grab and Go Low Carb Snacks | Snacking for weight loss is possible with the right weight loss snacks.  

Low Carb Chicken Recipes that are Perfect for Lunch | Here is that chicken again, still amazing, still the perfect star of any keto recipe. 

Keto Crack Chicken – I Hacked Diabetes

by Oscar Chimenti, Last Modified: April 20, 2023
This post may contain affiliate or sponsored links. See the Disclosure Policy linked in my footer.

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This Keto Crack Chicken recipe is full of flavour and made with creamy and tart cream cheese, cheddar, bacon and ranch seasoning. You will not be able to resist this mouth watering and delicious dish.

At only 4g of carbs per serving this dish is likely to fit into your daily macros, whether you are keto, low carb or diabetic like me and don’t want those blood sugar spikes.

This recipe reminds me of my Ginger Braised Chicken Thigh recipe that is also made in one pot in the oven and pairs well with this Panzanella Salad recipe.

Jump To:

• 🥘 Ingredient notes
• 👨🏻‍🍳 Steps by step instructions
• 🍴 More low carb and diabetic friendly recipes
• 🍴 Variations
• 🥣 Equipment
• ♨️ Storage
• 👨🏻‍🍳 Top tip
• ⏲️ Tips and serving suggestions
• 💭 Frequently asked questions
• 🍽 Other recipes you may like
• Keto Crack Chicken
• 🌡️ Food safety

🥘 Ingredient notes

Made with tender chicken breasts, cream cheese, ranch dressing and bacon this tasty keto crack chicken will be your weekly go to dish.

• Chicken Breasts: each filet is sliced in half crosswise for easy baking and to create an even layer in the casserole.
• Cream cheese: for that mild sweet taste and pleasant tang.
• Bacon: crispy, salty and savoury flavours that you can only get from bacon.
• Ranch Seasoning: creamy and tangy with hints of garlic and onion.

👨🏻‍🍳 Steps by step instructions

How to make the Keto Crack Chicken

STEP 1: Slice bacon and pan fry until crispy, set aside

FRYING BACON

STEP 2: In a medium bowl combine the softened cream cheese, half of the shredded cheddar, half of the cooked bacon and the dry ranch seasoning.

MIXING THE CREAM CHEESE MIXTURE

STEP 3: Slice each chicken breast in half crosswise and then add to a greased (cooking spray) 9×13″ casserole dish.

STEP 4: Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the chicken and then top a sprinkle of salt, pepper, onion powder and garlic powder. Spread the remaining cheddar on top and the optional sliced cherry tomatoes.

STEP 5: Bake in a preheated oven at 400 for 30-35 minutes

STEP 5: Remove from oven and allow to set for about 10 minutes before topping with remaining bacon and green onions.

🍴 More low carb and diabetic friendly recipes

🍴 Variations

Some people like it spicy, lower in calories or even meatless.

• Spicy – add a little cayenne pepper to the cream cheese mixture for some added heat.
• Low Calories – reduce the amount of calories by only using half of the bacon and a reduced fat cream cheese and cheddar.
• Meatless – replace the chicken with thick slices of cauliflower steaks and make it a vegetarian dish (don’t forget to omit the bacon)

See this Low Carb Vegetable Stir Fry recipe on my website!

🥣 Equipment

I used a 9″ x 13″ porcelain casserole dish for this recipe similar to this one. However a glass or tin pan will also work, just be sure to grease it well with cooking spray.

♨️ Storage

If you have any leftovers store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Heat up in the oven for 10 minutes at 350 or microwave it on high for 1 minute, flip and add another 30 seconds.

👨🏻‍🍳 Top tip

Make it without having to deal with slicing raw chicken and pick up a cooked rotisserie chicken from the grocery store, shred it and use instead. Follow the same steps by replacing with the shredded chicken but only bake for 15-20 minutes since the chicken is already cooked.

⏲️ Tips and serving suggestions

• Setting out of the oven: Allow the casserole to sit for about 10 minutes out of the oven to allow it to set. It may seem watery when it comes out of the oven but it should dry up.
• Dishing it out: Remove from casserole and plate on a serving platter dish and then top with remaining bacon and green onions.
• Make ahead: You can make this dish ahead of time and keep warm in the oven, cover with tinfoil until you are ready to serve.

How many carbs does keto crack chicken have?

Each serving of chicken has 4g of carbs. If you omit the tomatoes it is only 3g of carbs per serving.

What can I serve with keto crack chicken?

You can serve with a side of vegetables like green beans, broccoli or brussel sprouts.

Can I make this in the instant pot?

Yes, I have not made it in the instant pot but a quick google search for “Keto Crack Chicken Instant Pot” identifies a few recipes you can follow. Here is one that I found that looks good.

🍽 Other recipes you may like

If you made this recipe,please comment, rate or review my recipe below!

Keto Crack Chicken

Oscar

Keto Crack Chicken made with creamy and tart cream cheese, cheddar and bacon. You will not be able to resist this mouth watering and delicious dish.

5 from 45 votes

Print Pin This Recipe

Prep Time : 15 minutes mins

Cook Time : 30 minutes mins

Total Time : 45 minutes mins

Course : Main Course

Cuisine : American

Diet : Diabetic

Servings : 6 people

Calories : 362

Serving: 1chicken breast halveCalories: 362kcalCarbohydrates: 4gProtein: 26gFat: 26gFiber: 3gSugar: 2g

• 6 slices thick cut bacon
• 3 chicken breasts sliced in half crosswise
• 8 oz cream cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 oz dry ranch seasoning
• 3 green onions chopped
• ⅛ teaspoon salt
• ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
• ⅛ teaspoon garlic powder
• ⅛ teaspoon onion powder
• 10 cherry tomatoes sliced in half (optional)
• Cooking Spray Oil

Get Oscars New Recipe E-bookCheck out Low Carb & Diabetes Comfort Food!

• Preheat oven to 400°F

• Slice and cook the bacon until crispy

• In a medium bowl combine the cream cheese, ranch seasoning, half of the bacon and half of the shredded cheddar.

• Spray a 9″ x 13″ casserole dish with cooking spray and add the halved chicken breasts.

• Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly on the chicken.

• Sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic and onion powder.

• Top with the remaining cheddar and optional sliced tomatoes

• Bake uncovered at 400°F for 30-35 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and cheese is melted and slightly crispy.

• Remove from oven and allow to set for 10 minutes.

• Remove from casserole and serve on a platter or individual dishes. Top with the remaining bacon and green onions.

Shop Discounts from DiabetesStore.comEach serving is 4g of carbs.

All nutritional information is based on third-party calculations and should be considered estimates. Actual nutritional content will vary with brands used, measuring methods, portion sizes and more.

Tips:

Save time and use a rotisserie chicken instead of chicken breasts.   Bake for 15-20 minutes since the chicken is already cooked.

You can make this dish ahead of time and keep warm in the oven and cover with tinfoil until you are ready to serve.

This recipe card provides the basic details to make this recipe. For more information, questions or variations please review the content above the recipe card.

If conflicting information between the video and recipe card, the recipe card will always have the most up to date information, ingredients and instructions.

Click here to add your own private notes.

All nutritional information is based on third-party calculations and should be considered estimates. Actual nutritional content will vary with brands used, measuring methods, portion sizes and more.

LOVE THIS RECIPE?Check out I Hacked Diabetes on Pinterest

🌡️ Food safety

• Cook to a minimum temperature of 165 °F (74 °C)
• Do not use the same utensils on cooked food, that previously touched raw meat
• Wash hands after touching raw meat
• Don’t leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
• Never leave cooking food unattended
• Use oils with high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds
• Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove

See more food guidelines

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Keto diet for diabetes – important rules for type 1 and 2 diabetics

The ketogenic diet is a special type of diet in which carbohydrates are almost completely excluded, and protein foods in the diet are reduced, but the fat content is increased. When switching to a keto diet, the body enters a special state called ketosis.

Contents

• 1 Keto diet for diabetics
• 2 Carbohydrates and keto diet for diabetes
• 3 Ketosis and ketoacidosis
• 4 Type 1 Diabetes and the Keto Diet
• 5 Type 2 Diabetes and the Keto Diet
• 6 The Dawn Phenomenon
• 7 Examples of the Keto Diet for Diabetes

Ketosis is more of a physiological state organism, manifested by an increase the level of ketone bodies in the blood is above 0.5 mmol while following a ketogenic diet. And ketone bodies are alternative sources of energy. The metabolism of ketone bodies enhances metabolism, has an anticonvulsant effect, improves cellular metabolism, and has a beneficial effect on diabetes and other disorders of carbohydrate metabolism.

Keto diet for diabetics

The effect of the keto diet on diabetes is confirmed by the scientific data of American scientists, since it is the majority of Americans who suffer from carbohydrate metabolism disorders.

When following a normal diet, the body obtains energy mainly from the metabolism of glucose. The brain alone consumes up to 25% of the incoming glucose. When access to glucose intake is limited, as is the case with the keto diet, the body adapts to obtain energy from an alternative source – ketone bodies, which are formed during the breakdown of fat. In this case, the brain is able to use up to 50% of the released metabolic energy, which in turn shifts the metabolism to the production of ketones to maintain homeostasis.

Pre-diabetes is a metabolic syndrome characterized by body cells resistance to insulin. Insulin is produced more than necessary, but it does not have the necessary activity to properly promote the uptake of glucose by cells.

The keto diet for diabetes will be optimal, especially in the early stages of type 2 diabetes. Since during the formation of the metabolic syndrome more and more insulin is released, but by and large it is not fully active, it accumulates in the blood. Which, in turn, leads to the development of obesity.

When switching to a keto diet in diabetes, the process of splitting one’s own fat is triggered and, as a result, weight loss, which improves insulin resistance.

Carbohydrates and the keto diet for diabetes

Carbohydrates are divided into simple and complex. Simple or harmful carbohydrates include ordinary food sugar, glucose, fructose, and complex or healthy carbohydrates include starch and fiber. Excess consumption of simple carbohydrates leads to the development of obesity and type 2 diabetes. Since a lot of free glucose circulates in the blood, and its absorption and absorption is disturbed.

Complex carbohydrates are considered healthy because they require a lot of energy to digest and provide a lasting energy effect. When carbohydrates are consumed, the pancreas produces a hormone called insulin, which serves as the key that unlocks the cells to absorb glucose. In recent years, the amount of carbohydrate intake has increased significantly, as a result, the incidence of diabetes has increased, especially in America and Europe.

The keto diet for diabetes allows the consumption of no more than 20% of carbohydrates from the total daily diet.

Ketosis and ketoacidosis

During periods of fasting or excessive exercise, the body’s glucose stores are depleted, and the inability to replenish them causes the body to produce ketone bodies to meet the energy deficit. This state is called ketosis.

The rapid formation of ketone bodies, changes in blood pH and electrolyte imbalance in the acidic direction, leads to ketoacidosis – a condition dangerous to the body.

Ketoacidosis is diabetic, when insulin production is reduced, and the number of ketone bodies with glucose increases in the blood, and alcoholic, when, after increased alcohol consumption and fasting, the level of ketone bodies increases, but there is no increase in blood sugar.

The state of ketoacidosis is especially dangerous for people with type 1 diabetes, as blood glucose levels rise, insulin levels are insufficient, in addition, fat is burned for energy, releasing increased levels of ketones into the blood. In this case, there is no absorption of glucose by cells, and it circulates in the bloodstream, while the blood is oversaturated with ketone bodies, the pH of the blood shifts to the acid side, disrupting the acid-base balance. This condition is very dangerous and can lead to ketoacidotic coma. Ketoacidotic coma is a state of severe intoxication with damage to the cardiovascular and hepatic-renal systems.

In controlled nutritional ketosis, the body burns large amounts of fat for energy after using up all of the glycogen stores in the liver and muscles.

The keto diet for diabetes mellitus has the difficulty of transitioning to a ketogenic state, since glucose starvation is both physically and emotionally difficult even for strong-willed people.

Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus and the Keto Diet

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which the hormone insulin is produced or formed in the pancreas by beta cells, but the body perceives them as foreign and destroys them with the help of immune cells. And such patients are forced to receive hormone replacement therapy with insulin injections all their lives. As a rule, type 1 diabetes affects young children and adolescents during puberty, that is, it manifests itself only at a young age. To maintain life, continuous hormonal therapy with basal and bolus insulins, that is, short- and long-acting insulins, is required. Tablets prescribed for type 2 diabetics are not suitable for the treatment of type 1 diabetes, as they can cause serious disorders in the pancreas or poisoning of the body.

The effect of the keto diet in type 1 diabetes mellitus has not been sufficiently studied, since the state of hypoglycemia, in which the liver cannot respond with the release of glycogen due to its absence, is quite dangerous and risky for the health of patients. Since they cannot stop insulin therapy and need to carefully follow a diet that must contain carbohydrates along with proteins and fats, following a keto diet for type 1 diabetes is not recommended.

A patient with type 1 diabetes needs to eat at least 150 grams of carbohydrates to replenish glycogen stores. If you follow a keto diet for type 1 diabetes, then the acceptable carbohydrate intake of less than 50 grams will not cover the needs of the body and will be fraught with negative health consequences. For example, hypoglycemia can occur and, if it is not stopped in time by taking glucose, the condition can turn into a hypoglycemic coma. And this coma is a dangerous condition for the brain and carries serious risks to life.

However, studies have been conducted in two patients with type 1 diabetes, a girl with concomitant epilepsy and a teenage boy. In the course of following the keto diet, the girl significantly decreased the frequency and strength of seizures. The guy, for six months on a strict keto diet with a restriction of vegetables, vegetable oils, sweeteners, dairy products and lean meats and eating only fatty meats and eggs, has restored the production of his own insulin in the pancreas. In addition to strictly adhering to the diet, the patient also took vitamin D. The further fate of these subjects is unknown.

Other studies have shown that even reducing carbohydrate intake leads to good glycated hemoglobin results, but this does not require a keto diet, a low-carb diet is sufficient.

Glycated hemoglobin shows the binding of hemoglobin to glucose over a period of three months. The higher the constant level of glucose in the blood, the higher the rate of glycated hemoglobin will be at its maximum allowable rate of up to 6%.

Type 2 diabetes and keto diet

Diabetes mellitus type 2 is an acquired disease due to malnutrition, a sedentary lifestyle, manifested by a decrease in the activity of its own insulin produced by the pancreas. To treat such diabetes, endocrinologists prescribe special drugs – pancreatic stimulants, a strict diet with the exclusion of fast carbohydrates and physical activity.

Therefore, the keto diet for type 2 diabetes, on the contrary, is considered one of the best and is recommended for use. There have been many independent studies that have proven the effectiveness of the ketogenic diet in reducing glycated hemoglobin in the blood and reducing body weight. Especially in the first year of switching to a keto diet. In older patients with diabetes, when following a keto diet, there were improvements in cholesterol tests, an increase in high-density lipoprotein and a decrease in low-density lipoprotein, and the load on the pancreas was reduced by reducing doses of hypoglycemic drugs.

But when following the keto diet for type 2 diabetes for more than 2-3 years, no positive dynamics were observed, and glycated hemoglobin remained at the same level. Also, when the ketogenic diet was discontinued, the body’s ability to break down and absorb carbohydrates decreased.

With the keto diet for type 2 diabetics, studies have also been conducted, as a result of which it has been established for certain that long-term adherence to the diet, up to a year, improves cholesterol, blood glucose, weight loss and a significant reduction in the dosages of glucose-lowering drugs used. For comparison, a group of patients on a low-carbohydrate diet and a group on a ketogenic diet were used. The difference was huge: in the first group, the indicators of weight, glucose, lipids remained unchanged, while the second group showed very good results in all respects.

The keto diet for type 2 diabetes implies a long-term and stable remission of the disease, if all the rules are strictly followed.

The keto diet for type 2 diabetics also requires daily monitoring of blood glucose levels, as levels can drop rapidly and suddenly. In such cases, the use of fast carbohydrates will become an emergency, but if you follow the keto diet, this is an unacceptable option, therefore, in agreement with the endocrinologist, you will have to reduce the doses of hypoglycemic drugs.

Disadvantages of the keto diet for diabetes:

• Poor diet, monotonous diet;
• Deficiency of nutrients in food, vitamins;
• Insufficient or lack of fiber, which is especially needed in patients with diabetes;
• Digestive problems, in particular intestinal motility, constipation;
• High protein intake can lead to kidney problems, which are especially vulnerable in diabetics;
• Risk of dehydration. With keto and diabetes, it is very important not to leave the body without fluid, as this can lead to problems with blood vessels and increase blood pressure;
• Patients with diabetes have a hard time withholding carbohydrates, especially emotionally.

Dawn Phenomenon

When on keto and diabetics, fasting glucose levels can often be elevated. This is due to adaptive glucose levels or the “dawn effect”. This syndrome is equally characteristic of both type 1 and type 2 diabetics, when in the morning hours before waking up, the glucose level itself rises, despite sleep and the lack of eating during these hours. Absolutely healthy people without metabolic syndrome or who do not have a history of diabetes mellitus in general are also subject to this phenomenon.

This condition is explained by the disruption of circadian rhythms, the stress experienced the night before, the excessive consumption of carbohydrates for dinner and the increased formation of contrainsular hormones, such as cortisol, adrenaline – stress hormones; somatotropic and thyrotropic – thyroid hormones and glucagon – the antipode of insulin. Due to these hormonal fluctuations, glucose synthesis by the liver increases, and excess glucose is released into the blood. To stabilize this condition, it is recommended to shift the hours of taking hypoglycemic drugs or insulin injections to later in the evening. Also limit dinner foods that can cause an increase in sugar levels.

The danger of this syndrome is that constant fluctuations in glucose levels from low to high levels and vice versa have a very negative effect on blood vessels and peripheral nerve endings, which leads to diabetic complications.

Those on a keto diet with diabetes should also remember that when the blood glucose level is abnormally low, the body carries out a compensatory reaction. This condition is called the Somogyi effect and manifests itself at any time of the day, regardless of the time of taking the drugs.

The keto diet for diabetics, although it involves the absence or a small amount of carbohydrates in the diet, the liver will still produce glycogen synthesis through gluconeogenesis. Gluconeogenesis is the formation of glucose from non-carbohydrate compounds – amino acids from muscle tissue or glycerol during the breakdown of fat.

However, the transition to a ketogenic diet should be gradual, not trying to get into ketosis as quickly as possible, so that the level of blood glucose decline remains smooth. The level of glucose in the blood, which is kept for a long time in a patient with diabetes, speaks of physiological insulin resistance, that is, it is his “working sugar”. The keto diet for diabetics, when followed for a long time, reduces the level of “working sugar” and normalizes the sensitivity of cells to insulin.

Examples of a keto diet for diabetes

Swedish doctor Andreas Enfeldt gave an example of changes in blood glucose levels when eating food recommended for diabetics and products from the keto menu. After eating a cucumber sandwich with low-fat apple yogurt, his blood glucose spiked to 9 mmol an hour later. And after meat fried in oil with fatty sauce and stewed vegetables, the sugar index was 4 mmol. What speaks about the real benefits of the keto diet for patients with type 2 diabetes.

The keto diet for diabetes involves the use of foods such as meat, fatty fish, lard and fats, heavy cream and cheese, eggs, olives. Nuts, especially fatty types, vegetable oils, leafy greens, avocados, cucumbers and cabbage. Minimal consumption of seasonal berries is also allowed.

Water, including mineral water, teas and coffees, is allowed.

It is worth compiling a menu for a week at once and carefully considering the list of necessary products. Also, diabetics who follow a keto diet are advised to take into account the characteristics of their metabolism, physical activity and calorie intake.

Recommendations for protein-fat/carbohydrate ratios are basically the same for everyone, including diabetic patients. If you eat food 5-6 times a day fractionally, then each meal should have no more than 5 grams of carbohydrates, 25-28 grams of protein and 30 grams of fat.

Switching to a keto diet for diabetes is recommended in consultation with an endocrinologist and under his close supervision.

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8 delicious keto diet recipes for weight loss

Content

• 1 8 delicious keto diet recipes for weight loss
  • 1.1 1. Bacon Spinach Omelette
  • 1.2 2. Baked salmon with asparagus
  • 1.3 3. Vegetable salad with quail eggs
  • 1.4 4. Grilled chicken wings
  • 1. 5 5. Beef with vegetables
  • 1.6 6. Creamy cauliflower soup
  • 1.7 7 Garlic shrimp with broccoli
  • 1.8 8. Fruit Salad with Coconut Oil and Mint
  • 1.9 Keto First Meal Recipes for Weight Loss
    • 1.9.1 Broccoli Cream Soup
    • 1.9.2 Meatball Soup

    9002 1

    • 1.10 Second courses based on the keto diet
      • 1.10.1 Turkey cutlets
      • 1.10.2 Oven-grill in a hot pan
      • 1.10.3 Chicken skewers
      • 1.10.4 Salad with chicken fillet and avoca up to
      • 1.10.5 Roast pork with mushrooms
    • 1.11 Keto salad recipes
      • 1.11.1 Fresh vegetable salad with avocado
      • 1.11.2 Green bean salad with chicken
      • 1.11.3 Caesar salad with chicken
    • 1.12 Appetizer recipes by keto diet
      • 1.12.1 Tomatoes with cream cheese and bacon
      • 1.12.2 Avocado shrimp
      • 1.12.3 Crab meat salad
      • 1.12.4 Hazelnuts with cheese and honey
    • 1. 13 Keto desserts -diet
      • 1.13.1 Cottage Cheese Casserole
      • 1.13.2 Chocolate Brownie
      • 1.13.3 Creme Brulee
    • 1.14 Keto Drinks
      9 0007 1.14.1 Butterfly coffee
      • 1.14.2 Coconut milk oatmeal
    • 1.15 Keto cooking tips and tricks
    • 1.16 Keto cooking secrets
    • 1.17 Related videos:
    • 1.18 Q&A:
      • • 1.18.0.1 What is the keto diet ?
        • 1.18.0.2 Who is the keto diet for?
        • 1.18.0.3 What foods are recommended for a keto diet?
        • 1.18.0.4 What recipes are suitable for a keto diet?
        • 1.18.0.5 What can be expected from the keto diet?
        • 1.18.0.6 How long does a keto diet take to achieve results?
        • 1.18.0.7 Are there any contraindications to the keto diet?
        • 1.18.0.8 What are the possible side effects of the keto diet?

  Discover 8 amazing keto-friendly meals to help you lose weight. Surprise your loved ones and guests with your delicious recipes without breaking your diet. Who said healthy food can’t be delicious? Explore our selection of delicious keto dishes right now!

  The keto diet, or high-fat, low-carb diet, has become very popular among people who want to lose weight. It is based on the concept that reducing carbohydrates in the diet leads to an acceleration of metabolism and the beginning of the fat burning process.

  However, following a keto diet can be tricky if you don’t know what foods and ingredients to use. Today we bring you 8 simple and delicious recipes that will help you fight hunger and lose weight with the keto diet.

  1. Bacon Spinach Omelette

  This protein breakfast is the perfect way to start the day with an energy boost. A few eggs, bacon, and spinach are all it takes to make a simple and nutritious keto-friendly meal. You can also add cheese or avocado for extra flavor and health benefits.

  2. Baked salmon with asparagus

  A keto diet can include a lot of fish and seafood, and salmon is one of the most nutritious and delicious fish you can cook, many people will appreciate it. Baked salmon with asparagus is a classic recipe for lunch or dinner.

  3. Vegetable Salad with Quail Eggs

  If your keto diet lacks greens and vegetables, try making vegetable salad with quail eggs. This dish is perfect for a light snack or lunch. Adding avocados or nuts can also add extra flavor and nutrients.

  4. Grilled Chicken Wings

  The keto diet can be delicious and filling with dishes like grilled chicken wings. This recipe is easy to make and tastes just like regular wings, but is a healthier and lower calorie alternative to carb snacks.

  5. Beef with vegetables

  Beef is an excellent source of protein, which is important for a keto diet. It can be combined with vegetables such as broccoli and zucchini for a nutritious and light meal. Follow the recipe and cook delicious steamed beef.

  6. Creamy Cauliflower Soup

  Soups are a great way to add vitamins and nutrients to your diet. Creamy cauliflower soup is the next recipe you should try. It contains a minimum amount of carbohydrates and at the same time is very satisfying and tasty.

  7. Broccoli Garlic Shrimp

  Shrimp is a great source of protein and is the perfect keto meal. Try cooking them with broccoli and garlic for added flavor and aroma. This dish will easily become your favorite.

  8. Fruit salad with coconut oil and mint

  Don’t forget about desserts when you’re on a keto diet. Fruit Salad with Coconut Oil and Mint is the perfect option for those looking to add something sweet to their diet. This dessert contains a minimum amount of carbohydrates and a large amount of nutrients necessary for the body.

  Keto First Meal Recipes for Weight Loss

  Broccoli Cream Soup

  This soup is perfect for lunch or dinner on a keto diet. The ingredients you need are simple and affordable:

  • 400 g broccoli
  • 50 g butter
  • 1 onion
  • 500 ml stock
  • 100 ml cream
  • Salt and pepper to taste

  Boil the broccoli and then puree it in a blender. Fry chopped onion in oil, add broccoli, broth and mix. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer the soup for 15 minutes. Add cream, salt and pepper, bring back to a boil. Ready soup can be decorated with cream and fresh herbs.

  Soup with meat balls

  This soup is a real dish on a keto diet. To prepare it you will need:

  • 500 g minced meat
  • 1 egg
  • 50 g almonds (powdered)
  • 1 onion
  • 500 ml stock
  • 50 g butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste

  Mix the minced meat with the egg, almonds, salt and pepper and form into small balls. Fry the chopped onion in oil until golden brown, then add the balls and fry for another 5 minutes. Add broth, bring to a boil, then simmer for another 10 minutes. The soup is ready!

  Second courses based on the keto diet

  Turkey cutlets

  This simple and healthy dish consists of finely chopped turkey mixed with egg and spices, then shaped into cutlets and pan fried. They are usually served with fresh vegetables and herbs.

  Oven-grill in a hot pan

  This convenient dish consists of chopped meat (beef, pork or chicken), seasoned with spices and baked in an oven or hot pan. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner on the grill.

  Chicken kebab

  Chicken kebab is a favorite dish of many grill lovers. It consists of chopped chicken breast seasoned with spices and marinated in oil. Then the meat is strung on skewers and fried over a fire until golden brown.

  Chicken and Avocado Salad

  This salad is a simple but very nutritious dish based on chicken and avocado. It consists of chopped chicken fillet mixed with avocado, lettuce and scallops, seasoned with lemon juice.

  Roast Pork with Mushrooms

  This dish combines two delicious ingredients – pork and mushrooms – and is cooked in a pan. Pork is cut into portions and fried together with mushrooms seasoned with spices and garlic.

  Salad Recipes for Keto Diet

  Fresh Vegetable Salad with Avocado

  Cucumbers, tomatoes, fresh onions, bell peppers and greens are to be chopped for this salad. Add chopped avocado and optionally some feta. Season with olive oil and lemon juice. Drizzle with soy sauce and sprinkle with sesame seeds.

  Green bean salad with chicken

  Prepare the green beans (you can also use frozen). Add boiled chicken fillet, chopped fresh cucumber, spinach and peanuts. Dress with a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard and vegetable broth.

  Chicken Caesar Salad

  Keto Caesar Salad requires grilled chicken fillet, romaine lettuce, almond flour croutons, grated Parmesan, egg and mayonnaise sauce. Mix all the ingredients and enjoy the taste!

  • Tip: To make croutons, add almond flour to a frying pan and toast over medium heat. After that, remove the pan from the stove and mix the flour, adding garlic powder, salt and oil to it.

  Keto Snack Recipes

  Bacon Cream Cheese Tomatoes

  The perfect appetizer for bacon and cheese lovers. Take medium sized tomatoes and cut them into halves. Brush the cream cheese over the top of the tomatoes and sprinkle the bacon bits on top.

  • Calories: 175
  • Proteins: 5g
  • Fats: 15g

  Avocado Shrimps

  This snack is not only delicious, but also healthy. Cut the avocado in half and remove the pits. Cut out some of the flesh so that the deep part of the avocado serves as a cup. Add the shrimp to the avocado and sprinkle the crumbled cheese on top.

  • Calories: 212
  • Proteins: 17g
  • Fats: 14g

  Crab Meat Salad

  This salad is not only tasty, but also suitable for a keto diet. Add the crab meat to a bowl and mix in the celery, avocado, and onion. Sprinkle lemon juice and olive oil on top.

  • Calories: 212
  • Proteins: 17 g
  • Fats: 14 g pieces. Spread the hazelnuts on a baking sheet and place in the oven for 5 minutes. Sprinkle the cheese pieces on top and pour over the honey.
    • Calories: 150
    • Proteins: 6 g
    • Fats: 11 g 2 Dessert based on cottage cheese and cheese is the perfect sweet dish for those who follow carbohydrate levels. Cheese-curd casserole is prepared very simply: you need to mix cottage cheese, cheese, eggs, stevia and bake in the oven for 20 minutes. The result is a fragrant and slightly sweet dessert, low in carbohydrates.

      Chocolate Brownie

      Of course, a keto diet doesn’t mean cutting out sweets entirely. There are many low carb dessert recipes out there. Chocolate brownie is one of them. To prepare this dessert, you need to mix almond flour, cocoa powder, egg whites, coconut oil and stevia. Brownies need to bake for about 30 minutes, after which they will be ready to eat. Chocolate brownie will be a real treat for lovers of chocolate sweets.

      Creme Brulee

      In French, “creme brulee” means “baked cream”. But this dessert is not only delicious, but also suitable for a keto diet. To prepare it, you need to mix eggs, yolk, vanilla and cream, then mature in the oven for 20 minutes. After cooking, you can enjoy a fragrant and delicate dessert, decorated with a sweet crust on top. Creme Brule is the perfect dessert for those looking to cut down on carbs.

      • Cheese and Cheese Casserole – a simple and tasty dessert
      • Chocolate Brownie – a favorite dish for chocolate lovers
      • Creme Brulee – a gourmet dessert based on eggs and cream

      Keto drinks

      9 0326 Butterfly coffee

      Ingredients:

      • 1 cup espresso or strong coffee
      • 1 cup mineral water
      • 1 tbsp. l. coconut oil
      • 1 st. l. coconut oil MCT
      • 1 tbsp. l. cocoa powder
      • 1 tbsp. l. honey

      Preparation:

      1. Blend all ingredients in a blender.
      2. Pour the drink into a glass.

      Butterfly coffee is ready!

      Coconut milk oatmeal

      Ingredients:

      • 200 g oatmeal
      • 150 ml coconut milk
      • 1 tbsp. l. honey
      • 1 tbsp. l. coconut oil

      Preparation:

      1. Mix all ingredients in a saucepan.
      2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, for 10 minutes.
      3. Pour into a bowl.

      Delicious oatmeal with coconut milk is ready!

      Cooking the Keto Diet: Tips and Tricks

      The keto diet involves eating foods that are high in fat and low in carbohydrates. Avoiding sweet, starchy, and starchy foods can help you quickly lose weight and improve overall well-being. If you decide to start following a keto diet, then you need to take into account some features when preparing meals.

      1. Choose the right products. For meals to follow the principles of the keto diet, you need to choose the right ingredients. Your menu should include nuts, seeds, butter, fish, meat, eggs, and some vegetables (eg Brussels sprouts, asparagus, broccoli).

      2. Reduce carbohydrate intake. It is important to monitor the amount of carbohydrates in meals. Swap flour for honey, sugar for maple tree syrup, and starch for a variety of vegetables.

      3. Don’t be afraid of fats. Meals on a keto diet should be high in fat. Add olive and avocado oils, cream and other fatty foods to meals.

      4. Cook yourself. To be sure of the quality of the products, it is better to cook the dishes yourself. This will allow you to control the amount of carbohydrates and fats and follow all the principles of the keto diet.

      5. Use flour and sugar substitutes. Flour and sugar substitutes based on nuts, seeds, coconut flakes and other products can be used in desserts and pastries.

      By following these simple tips, you can successfully cook delicious keto meals and reap the maximum health benefits.

      Keto Cooking Secrets

      The keto diet requires us to avoid carbohydrates in our food, especially those that are quickly absorbed by the body and lead to insulin stress. The secret to keto cooking lies in the many creative approaches that allow us to replace common flour products, starch and sugar with healthy and low-calorie alternatives.

      Another secret to keto meals is using healthy protein sources such as eggs, seafood, nuts and seeds. These products are rich in healthy fatty acids, vitamins and minerals, which is not only beneficial for the body, but also helps to quickly get enough and improve metabolic processes.

      • The secret to calorie control. A feature of the keto diet, in addition to reducing carbohydrates, is calorie control. Meals on a keto diet should have a clear balance to help you satisfy your hunger and, at the same time, not break the diet.
      • The secret of combining ingredients. Delicious and nutritious keto meals require skillful blending of ingredients for maximum flavor and health benefits. Use spices and herbs to enhance the flavor, and vegetables to add color and texture.
      • The secret to proper cooking. Some foods are best cooked on the grill, while others are best cooked in a skillet or oven. Different recipes may require different preparations, and it is important to understand how to prepare foods in such a way that they are as tasty and healthy as possible.

      Related videos:

      Q&A:

      What is the keto diet?

      The keto diet is a diet based on the consumption of low-carb, high-fat and moderate-protein foods. The main idea is to force the body to extract energy not from carbohydrates, but from fats, leading to the destruction of fat reserves and weight loss.

      Who is the keto diet for?

      The keto diet is suitable for people who want to lose weight and reduce body fat. It may also help people with diabetes control their blood sugar levels and people with epilepsy reduce the frequency of seizures.

      What foods are recommended on a keto diet?

      Fatty fish, olive oil, coconut oil, eggs, meat, nuts, seeds and green vegetables are recommended. It is not recommended to consume bread, pasta, honey, fruits and sweets, as they contain a lot of carbohydrates.

      What recipes are suitable for a keto diet?

      Meals that are high in fat, moderate in protein and low in carbohydrates are suitable. For example, salmon with vegetables in the oven, scrambled eggs with vegetables and mushrooms, grilled chicken wings, cottage cheese flan.

      What can be expected from a keto diet?

      Expected to lose weight, reduce body fat and improve overall well-being. However, the results may vary depending on the individual characteristics of the body and diet.

      How long does it take to follow a keto diet to achieve results?

      The timing of the keto diet depends on the goal and individual characteristics of the organism. Usually, to achieve results, you need to follow a diet for at least a month, and then regularly monitor your weight and condition.

      Are there any contraindications to the keto diet?

      There are a number of contraindications to the keto diet, such as pregnancy and lactation, cardiovascular disease, kidney and liver disease, type 1 diabetes, and others.