Sounds totally weird, right? Ketogenic while plant-based is actually a very easy thing to do. Because vegetables don't all have an overabundance of carbohydrates in them. Asparagus, avocado, bell peppers, bok choy, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, celery, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, radishes, leafy greens, zucchini and even spaghetti squash... all low enough in net carbs to really enjoy because there is also the fiber that lowers that net carb rate.

So first remember that net carbohydrates are what matter. How do you figure out net carbs?? European food labels generally show net carbs, while America shows total carbs. Calculate net carbs by subtracting fiber from total carbs and the sugar alcohols.

Vegetables are so very filling, so you can stuff yourself with a salad (which I did today made with artichokes and Persian cucumbers, with a fatty plant based dressing) and if you are working out add in a protein shake. You will get more net carbs from your protein shake, if it's more of a meal replacement and if it is vegan; but you will also get more healthy fiber to feed that microbiome colony.

Another thing to consider is that if you haven't been eating a lot of fats, your body will need more support. There are functions that will have slowed down in the body when you have been eating a higher carbohydrate vegan diet. The transition is easier for anyone that has been eating animal fats, because they are already used to digesting these fats. And it's not just nuts. Yes, nuts and seeds are great healthy fats to consider for your diet, however with some of the endocrine disorders too many of the saturated fats are going to be hard on your body, and you may find yourself making things worse rather than making them better.

Why would you want to try a ketogenic diet anyway? I have to admit that I was on that train for quite awhile because I know how many of us just can't do saturated fats, which is why we became vegan. Many people on the ketogenic diet are using under 20 net carbs per day, which I don't really agree with for long term support of your gut health unless you are doing it for medical reasons. I like more of the Bulletproof dialed in ketosis program where you are using keto tools that help your body move into ketosis, and eating more carbs. On average I eat about 45 - 55 net carbs daily, while Bulletproof leans to 50 - 80 carbs generally. It is more of a cyclical ketogenic diet, which I what I see with myself. I am moving from trace ketones to moderate ketones depending on the time of day, and what I have eaten.

I also am obviously not a fan of eating bacon, eggs and cheese all day. You may get higher ketones with all of those animal fats, however you don't need super large ketones in order to get the benefits of a ketogenic diet. For those that are eating ketogenic, you are still missing out on many nutrients your body wants. So taking vegan whole foods supplements including non-gmo veggies and complete omegas will really make a big difference.

If you start your ketogenic diet with the very low proteins, you are going to crash and burn. There are hacks to help deal with this detoxification, because you do not need to have the keto flu. When you support your detoxification pathways and eat more fats you will find yourself with more energy. Also you can start healing your digestive issues, which will lead to actually absorbing those nutrients and even more support for your body's detoxification pathways... circle completed and on it goes.

The movement towards a more healthy, sustainable, compassionate diet is really gaining momentum, but it's not a one size fits all. There’s lots of conflicting information out there about what’s good for us and the planet, and what dietary choice is best for your body. Only you can determine what works well for you.

That is why I am working with a special group for my new program, Ketolicious Reset. If you think you may be interested find me on Facebook or get a consult, or order yours today