KETO IS TOO EXPENSIVE?
One of the biggest hurdles people face when considering a ketogenic lifestyle is the concern about cost. "Is keto too expensive?" is a question Coach Jon and I hear often. The popular idea that eating keto means shelling out big bucks for fancy meats, organic produce, and specialty products can be daunting. But here's the thing I want you to understand today, with a bit of planning and smart choices, keto can fit into just about any budget.
The Truth About Keto Costs vs. The Standard American Diet
The Standard American Diet (SAD) most of us follow before embarking on a ketogenic diet for weight loss and overall health reasons is loaded with processed foods, fast food, and eating out which might seem budget-friendly at first. But in the long run, it's often more expensive than you think. Sure, these options might save time or seem cheap upfront but when you factor in the costs of frequent dining out, takeout, and yes, the potential healthcare costs tied to a diet high in processed foods, the picture changes.
When you focus on whole foods in a keto diet – like meats, fish, eggs, vegetables, and healthy fats – you can make keto work without breaking the bank. Think about it: these are foods that have been staples for centuries. By shopping smart and prioritizing nutrient-dense foods, you can keep costs down. For example:
Buy in bulk: Purchasing meats like chicken thighs or ground beef in bulk can save money and provide a variety of uses in keto friendly recipes. Vacuum sealers are very affordable now and help with long term storage too! And of course do not overlook the benefits of a Costco or Sam’s Club membership.
Shop around: There is no law that says you have to shop at the same store every week. Explore the weekly sales flyers for several stores in your area to find the best deals. For example, I have a Von’s and a Ralph’s in adjacent plazas near my house, and most week’s the same exact cuts of beef will vary by several dollars a pound. Build a shopping list that includes getting the best deals even if it means more than one stop!
Seasonal veggies: Choosing seasonal vegetables can lower costs while still getting the nutrients you need. The “Seasonal Food Guide” you can find here will show you what’s in season where you are right now.
Meal planning: Planning your meals reduces food waste and helps you stick to your budget! A little bit of effort in this area can reap rewards in your wallet! Buying what you will know you use prevents having to toss unused produce that has gone south!
Avoid the “Keto” label: There are many products out there that can support a healthy ketogenic lifestyle but more often than not they come at a hefty price tag. None of them are requirements for success and often can be recreated at home, including keto friendly breads and more.
Investing in Your Health
This may seem basic but it is important. You need to view a keto lifestyle as an investment in your health rather than just an expense. When you prioritize nutrient-dense foods and cook at home, you’re making choices that benefit your long-term health – and that’s priceless.
Quality Within Budget = Keto Success
Lastly I want to share a mindset shift that may go against some of the popular messages you see on social media. Namely it’s totally okay to buy the quality products you can afford. Don’t stress if you’re not buying all grass-fed meat, organic produce and dairy, or pasture raised eggs. What matters is making progress on your keto journey, not achieving perfection that will break the bank. Focusing on what works for you and your budget, you’ll find keto is more sustainable than you thought!
The price of keto is just one of many myths you’ll encounter online. On Thursday, August 28th at 8pm est Coach Jon and I will be hosting a FREE Keto Mythbusters Webinar where we debunk five of the biggest myths surrounding the ketogenic diet, from. both the pro and con sides! For signing up you get a copy of our new Keto Shopping & Top Recipes Guide delivered to your email box. AND one lucky attendee will win a Performnce Gainz Prize Pack valued at $150! Now is the time to cut through the BS and work on your success, so sign up!
