Can You Drink Alcohol on Keto?
Can You Drink Alcohol on Keto?
So the big question I always get is: Can you drink alcohol on a keto diet? The short answer is yes. But, there are limitations.
Every once in awhile, we all want to celebrate. Heck, I get it. I do too. A lot of us do.
Those on Keto either think they can't have it or are unsure whether they can or what they can have.
You can have a good time.
You can have a drink.
Just know what you're doing.
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Alcohol on the Keto Diet
It may seem like a lot to think about, but we need to know what we are consuming so that we don't throw ourselves out of ketosis. You want to continue burning fat. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn some money if you click on one. Read the full disclaimer here.
Most people don't think about what they are drinking. Only what they are eating. But, if you don’t keep a close eye on what you are drinking, you'll throw yourself out of ketosis and start gaining weight. You don't want that. I don't want that.
Let’s Break It Down
When you start seeing a lot of results, you don't want to sidetrack that. But, when you consume alcohol, your body immediately wants to metabolize it.
It will cause a slowdown in the weight loss. Maybe even stall. You don't want this to occur after all the work you've put in.
If you've been on keto and already are in ketosis, you may also feel them quicker. With ketosis, your body was burning fats first and now you've introduced alcohol causing a slowdown and potentially feeling it quicker.
Complications
Once you start to imbibe, and the absorption is occurring at a quicker pace, and you are less inhibited due to your merry state, you may feel the urge to have the foods you've given up.
Careless eating often occurs when you’re drinking. You probably won't even notice due to your state of awareness of the alcohol. You need to not overindulge so that your awareness level is still intact.
Always eat before drinking, especially on keto and in ketosis. This will help not only with the way your body metabolizes and the feeling of drunkenness, but you'll also ward of unnecessary eating.
Read More:14 Easy Keto Snacks On The Go
So what alcohol can you have?
For anyone on keto, you want to drink clear liquors. Stay away from dark alcohols.
Here is my cheat sheet:
- Tequila
- Whiskey
- Rum
- Scotch
- Brandy
- Vodka
- Gin
- Cognac
This list will give you a multitude of options. However, your next problem is deciphering what your mixer will be.
While there are also some light beers and wines that you can enjoy, be aware of the labels to know exactly what you’re consuming. You need to know what the carb count is for these and not go blindly drinking all light beer or wines.
I know you're next question...
How do you know?
Research. It's what you are doing now, right? Get all the knowledge so you know what to ask for when going out.
Be wary of the mixers
First off, most mixers won't be allowed on keto. They are exceedingly high in sugar, which, as you know, you are avoiding on keto.
This is why you need to arm yourself with the knowledge of what you can have as a mixer before you go into the situation.
The easy mixers are seltzer water, sugar-free sodas, and diet tonic water. There are other options but these are the simplest. As with all your foods, you just need to do your research and be aware of what you are consuming.
My favorite drink in a public setting is a Rum and Diet Coke. At home, (we call this my juice lol) it is Rum and Sparkling Ice (a flavored water) as my mixer. So far, everyone that has tried it loves it as well.
I also know a lot of people bring their own Mio with them to mix in their drink.
It's best to be prepared. Even if the easiest thing to remember is Diet Coke, it's better than all the calories in the other options.
Alcohol on Keto is okay.
The first thing I want you to take away from this post is that alcohol is acceptable on keto. I also want you to remember, regardless of what it is, if you are consuming something know if it acceptable by researching.
It all comes down to knowing keto, your body, and doing that research.
Having a drink on keto can be as simple or as hard as you want it to be. Since I try to be low maintenance, I simply keep it as a clear alcohol and Diet Coke. That always seems to do the job for me.
Too much worrying about what you are consuming will prevent you from having fun while you are out which is why I say to research and have an idea of what your options are. Relax but follow your keto rules.
JUST STARTING KETO?
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