Keto with Kimberly

Many people have asked me lately, especially with grocery prices on the rise, if it is expensive to live a keto lifestyle and the answer is no, if you do things to help keep the cost down. What it comes down to is this: when people ask me how I can afford to eat keto, I say, how can I afford not to. It is so much better for my health!

With strategic planning and smart shopping, it’s entirely possible to stay on track both nutritionally and financially when it comes to leading a keto lifestyle.

Here are practical tips to help you embrace the keto lifestyle without overspending:

Master the Art of Meal Planning

Planning your meals in advance is a major part of budget-friendly eating. By planning out your weekly meals, you can create a focused shopping list. This means you can cut down on impulse buys and food waste. Batch cooking and utilizing leftovers can stretch your budget and ensure you always have keto-friendly options ready to go.

Opt for Affordable Protein Sources

Protein is essential on a keto diet, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. Focus on:

• Eggs because they are very nutritious and convenient. You can buy them in bulk, which helps to keep the price down.
• Ground meats – like ground beef, turkey, or pork.
• Canned fish, including tuna, salmon, sardines.
• Whole chickens and turkeys that you can roast and use every part. You can also freeze some for later.

Embrace Frozen and Seasonal Produce

Fresh produce can be pricey but more so if it is out of season. Try to buy fruits and veggies that are currently in season. Or you can buy frozen fruits and veggies which I often do because I eat them and so does my bearded dragon. They are often cheaper, have a long shelf life, and maintain their nutrients.

You can stick to low-carb veggie favorites like spinach, broccoli, cauliflower, and green beans as well as frozen fruits, such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and black berries.

Buy in Bulk and Watch for Sales

Shopping in bulk from warehouse clubs or during store sales can save you big, especially on staple keto items like cheese, nuts, olive oil, and even eggs. Stock up when prices are lower and freeze any items that you can to save money down the road.

Skip Expensive Packaged Keto Products

Those pre-packaged “keto snacks” and frozen meals can be tempting but are often overpriced and not as healthy to eat. Stick with whole foods and do-it-yourself snacks, such as hard-boiled eggs, cheese cubes, pepperoni slices, or homemade fat bombs.

Grow Your Own Herbs and Veggies

If you have a yard, porch, or even a sunny window, growing your own herbs and simple veggies can save money. Basil, cilantro, parsley, and even cherry tomatoes can thrive in small pots and add fresh flavor to your meals.

Stick to the List

Impulse purchases can wreck your food budget. Create a grocery list based on your weekly meal plan and don’t stray. If it’s not on the list, don’t add it to your cart.

Make Your Kitchen Work for You

Tools like slow cookers and Instant Pots are perfect for bulk cooking meals like keto chili, soups, or pulled pork. Freeze portions for future meals to avoid the temptation of takeout when life gets hectic.

I hope some of these ideas help to keep your grocery bill down. They have helped me tremendously, especially meal planning. Now that I am more organized when it comes to my meals, I am saving money and time!

What are some of the ways you cut down on food costs? Leave your response in the comments, please!