When adopting a modified ketogenic diet for weight loss it is imperative to avoid sugar consumption. With a lack of calories from glucose, the body turns on fat metabolism allowing you to scorch body fat and lose weight fast. 

However, most people are accustomed to snacking on sugary foods throughout the day. This habit throws the blood sugar out of whack, reduces insulin sensitivity, and prevents the body from ever entering fat burning mode.

For optimal weight loss it is ideal to avoid snacking between meals but as you make the transition over to a modified ketogenic diet you still may need a mid-afternoon boost to help you make it through the day.

Instead of reaching for a candy bar, doughnut, or energy drink, try one of these low-carb keto-friendly snacking solutions:

Organic Nuts and Seeds

Rich in healthy fats, protein, and micronutrients, these low-carb nutritional powerhouses are a great alternative to the standard sugary snack. Great options include cashews, almonds, macadamia nuts, walnuts, pecans, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds and chia seeds. If possible look for “sprouted” or “activated” nuts and seeds. The process of sprouting activates the enzymes inherent in the dormant nuts and seeds and inhibits anti-nutrients making the nutrition more bioavailable.

The mono- and polyunsaturated fats found in nuts and seeds are unstable. This means nuts and seeds are best kept airtight in cool temperatures away from excessive light. It is probably best to store them in the fridge short term and the freezer long term, taking them out as needed.

Organic Kalamata Olives

One of the richest sources of monounsaturated fats, olives are often found conveniently in jars or cans. Olives have a wide range of vitamins and minerals packed into their delicious fatty flesh. In addition, olives are a substantial source of fiber and antioxidants.

Kalamata olives are usually found canned or jarred and are often stored in red wine vinegar. Beware that the vinegar is high in carbohydrate so if eating olives on a ketogenic diet it is best to avoid consuming too much of the vinegar they come in.

Smoked Wild-Caught Fish

The best choices are salmon, sardines, and tuna. These fish are some of the most potent sources of the omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA. These fats are critical to brain and nervous system health. Fish are also rich in vitamins, minerals, and protein. Tuna, as a large predator, can be high in mercury and other toxins so consumption should be limited to 1 or 2 times per week.

Look for these fish in BPA free cans or pouches. They usually come packed in spring water or olive oil. They are smoked so no cooking is required. They can easily be mixed with some avocado oil mayo (avoid canola oil!) for a quick and easy tuna salad style snack.

To give your body the optimum opportunity to achieve ketosis and enter into fat-burning mode it is best to avoid unnecessary snacking, but if you must snack, snack right! By maintaining low-carbohydrate intake your blood sugar will remain stable. This will help curb cravings and allow your body to stay in a moderate state of ketosis so that you continue to burn stubborn body fat all day long.

For expert guidance on navigating the modified ketogenic diet, Dr. Don Colbert has developed a modified ketogenic diet for weight loss, brain health, and the management of inflammation. Dr. Colbert’s Keto Zone Diet is the fastest way to burn fat in 21 days. Sign up for free now!