Keto is a low-carb, high-fat diet that has gained popularity in recent years. The goal of the keto diet is to put your body into a state of ketosis, where it burns fat instead of carbohydrates for energy. While the diet is strict when it comes to carbohydrates, there are still plenty of alcoholic drinks that you can enjoy while on keto. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the alcoholic drinks that are keto-friendly.
The ketogenic diet is a high-fat, low-carb diet that has gained popularity in recent years due to its potential weight loss benefits. However, alcohol is often a point of confusion for those adhering to this diet. So, what alcoholic drinks can you have on keto? In this article, we will explore some of the best options for those following the ketogenic diet.
Understanding the Keto Diet
Before we dive into the alcoholic drinks that are keto-friendly, let’s take a closer look at the keto diet. The keto diet is a low-carb, high-fat diet that focuses on putting your body into a state of ketosis. When your body is in ketosis, it burns fat for energy instead of carbohydrates. This can lead to weight loss and improved health.
To follow the keto diet, you need to limit your carbohydrate intake to around 20-50 grams per day. This means cutting out foods like bread, pasta, and sugar. Instead, you’ll focus on eating high-fat foods like meat, cheese, and butter.
The Importance of Choosing Keto-Friendly Alcoholic Drinks
While alcohol is not recommended on the keto diet, there are still some options that you can enjoy in moderation. However, it’s important to choose your drinks carefully, as some alcoholic beverages are high in carbohydrates and sugar, which can kick you out of ketosis.
To stay in ketosis, you’ll need to choose drinks that are low in carbohydrates and sugar. This means avoiding beer, sweet wines, and sugary cocktails. Instead, opt for spirits like vodka, gin, and whiskey, which are low in carbohydrates and sugar.
Keto-Friendly Alcoholic Drinks
Here are some keto-friendly alcoholic drinks that you can enjoy in moderation:
1. Vodka Soda
Vodka is a popular choice for keto dieters, as it is low in carbohydrates and sugar. When mixed with soda water, it makes for a refreshing and low-carb drink.
2. Gin and Tonic
Gin is another low-carb spirit that is keto-friendly. When mixed with diet tonic water, it makes for a delicious and refreshing drink.
3. Whiskey on the Rocks
Whiskey is a popular spirit that is also low in carbohydrates and sugar. Enjoy it on the rocks for a simple and delicious keto-friendly drink.
4. Tequila and Soda
Tequila is a great choice for keto dieters, as it is low in carbohydrates and sugar. Mix it with soda water and a squeeze of lime for a refreshing and low-carb drink.
5. Dry Red Wine
While most wines are high in carbohydrates and sugar, dry red wines like Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon are lower in carbohydrates and can be enjoyed in moderation on the keto diet.
Keto-Friendly Mixers
When it comes to mixers, it’s important to choose wisely. Many mixers are high in sugar and can kick you out of ketosis. Here are some keto-friendly mixers that you can use to make delicious low-carb cocktails:
- Soda water
- Diet tonic water
- Diet ginger ale
- Sugar-free energy drinks
- Fresh lime or lemon juice
FAQs – What Alcoholic Drinks Can You Have on Keto?
Can you drink alcohol on a keto diet?
Yes, you can still enjoy alcohol in moderation while following a keto diet. However, it’s important to choose the right types of alcoholic drinks that are low in carbs and sugar to stay in ketosis.
What alcoholic drinks are best for a keto diet?
The best alcoholic drinks for a keto diet are those that are low in carbs and sugar. These include spirits like vodka, gin, rum, tequila, and whiskey, as well as their mixers such as soda water, sugar-free tonic water, and diet soda.
Are there any alcoholic drinks you should avoid on a keto diet?
Yes, there are several alcoholic drinks you should avoid on a keto diet. Beers, sweet wines, and mixed drinks containing sugary syrups or juices are high in carbs and will kick you out of ketosis. Also, drinks that are labeled as “low-fat,” “light,” or “skinny” are high in sugar and should be avoided.
Can you have wine on keto?
Yes, you can have wine on a keto diet, but you need to choose wisely. Dry wine, such as red or white wine, has fewer carbs and sugar than sweet wines. You should also stick to a moderate serving of 5 oz (148 ml) or less to stay in ketosis.
How many alcoholic drinks can you have on keto?
It’s best to limit alcohol consumption on a keto diet. One to two drinks in a day is a safe limit if you are trying to stay in ketosis. Drinking more than that can lead to dehydration and can stall weight loss progress. It’s also essential to drink enough water to stay hydrated.
What are the risks of drinking alcohol on keto?
Drinking alcohol on a keto diet can have some risks, including dehydration, slowing down weight loss, and the increased risk of getting drunk fast. Keto dieters should hydrate themselves properly by drinking plenty of water and avoid excessive alcohol intake to avoid these risks. It’s important to consume alcohol in moderation and to choose low-carb, sugar-free options.