Keto on a Tight Budget - 9 Money Saving Tips

Following a ketogenic diet can be expensive.

Many keto-friendly foods, such as avocados, nuts, and grass-fed meat, can be pricier than their non-keto counterparts.

But with a little planning and some savvy shopping, you can follow a keto diet on a budget.

Here are a few tips for doing keto on a budget:

1. Plan your meals

Meal planning is a great way to save money on groceries. By making a list of what you need for the week and sticking to it, you can avoid overspending and wasting food.

2. Shop in bulk

Buying in bulk can save you money on keto-friendly staples, such as nuts, seeds, and low-carb flours.

Look for bulk sections at your local grocery store or consider joining a warehouse club to access even lower prices.

3. Buy generic or store-brand items

Generic or store-brand items are often just as good as their name-brand counterparts, but at a lower price.

Look for these options when shopping for keto-friendly foods, such as almond milk, coconut oil, and canned tomatoes.

4. Use coupons and discounts

Don't be afraid to use coupons and take advantage of sales and discounts.

Many stores offer coupons and promotions on keto-friendly foods, so be sure to look for them before you shop.

5. Choose cheaper protein sources

While it can be tempting to opt for more expensive proteins like grass-fed beef or free-range chicken, these options can add up quickly.

Instead, consider opting for cheaper protein sources like eggs, ground beef, or canned fish.

These options are still high in quality protein and can be much more affordable.

6. Buy vegetables that are in season

Another way to save money on keto is to focus on purchasing vegetables that are in season.

Not only are in-season vegetables typically fresher and more flavorful, they are also often cheaper because they are more abundant at that time of year.

To find out which vegetables are in season in your area, you can check with your local farmers market or refer to a seasonal produce guide.

Related: Best & Worst Vegetables on Keto

7. Go for frozen over fresh

While fresh produce can be delicious, it can also be expensive, especially if you are buying out of season or from a specialty store.

An easy way to save money on vegetables is to opt for frozen options instead.

Frozen vegetables are typically cheaper than fresh and can be just as nutritious, since they are usually frozen at their peak ripeness.

Plus, they are a convenient option for meal prep and can be easily added to dishes like stir-fries, soups, and casseroles.

8. Skip the packaged keto-friendly foods

While there are now plenty of packaged keto-friendly foods available on the market, these options can be expensive and often include additives and preservatives that may not be ideal for your health.

Instead, try making your own keto-friendly meals using whole, unprocessed ingredients like leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and avocados.

9. Grow your own herbs and vegetables

If you have a green thumb, consider growing your own herbs and vegetables.

This can save you money on produce, and you'll have the added bonus of knowing exactly where your food is coming from.

Conclusion

Following a ketogenic diet on a budget is possible.

With a little planning and some smart shopping, you can enjoy all the benefits of a keto diet without breaking the bank.