There are so many different versions of the keto diet that it’s easy to get mixed up. Some require lots of tracking and counting, others not so much. Where does the lazy keto diet fit on the spectrum, then? Let’s learn how to do lazy keto, and what items fit on a lazy keto food list.
What Is Lazy Keto?
While other versions of keto may require tracking a variety of macros, a lazy keto meal plan only requires that you track net carbs. How many carbs can you have on lazy keto, though? You can use a personalized macro calculator to determine how many carbs you need to consume every day — then, just stay under that limit. (Usually between 20-50 grams per day.)
What’s the difference between dirty keto vs lazy keto?
The difference between lazy and dirty keto is so subtle that some people mistake them as the same thing. On dirty keto, you can eat anything that fits your macros (including processed foods) — but you’ll still count fat and protein macros. A lazy keto diet allows you to eat a variety of foods, as “clean” or “dirty” as you choose. The only rule is that you keep track of net carbs.
What is the difference between strict keto and lazy keto?
A strict keto diet requires you to count all macros and eat whole, unprocessed foods. With the “lazy” approach, you can enjoy natural foods as well — you’ll just stick to counting net carbs only.
How To Follow A Lazy Keto Diet
Wondering about the best way to do lazy keto? Here are some general guidelines:
Determine your lazy keto net carbs limit with a macro calculatorRead labels to determine the number of net carbs in your foodEat when you feel hungry and stop when you feel fullTry to eat cleaner, more natural keto foods when possibleDon’t worry too much about daily food choices, but pay attention to your eating habits and make changes if you start to gain weight or lose energy
Plus, beware of common pitfalls to this lifestyle such as keto flu and stalling on your diet. Planning ahead can help you prepare and troubleshoot if these issues arise.
Lazy Keto Benefits & Drawbacks
The lazy approach to keto has several advantages:
More convenienceLess counting and trackingMay be more sustainable
However, this kind of diet also has drawbacks:
May unknowingly consume more calories and get kicked out of ketosis or face a weight loss stallEating “dirty” foods could affect energy levels and resultsMay be difficult lifestyle for beginners to adopt
Is lazy keto safe?
The “lazy” kind of keto is as safe as any other kind of keto diet. Like other approaches to low carb living, though, you will most likely get better results from eating cleaner, nutrient-dense foods.
Lazy Keto Food List
Yes, the lazy approach to keto can include “dirty” and processed foods — but you can also eat clean! This lazy keto diet food list goes over the cleaner options you can enjoy, plus dirty ones to enjoy on rare occasions.
Clean lazy keto foods:
Packaged cheesesPork rindsPre-washed salad greensPre-cut keto vegetablesLow carb fruitQuality deli meats or hot dogsRotisserie chickens (no sugar added)Quality canned seafood, such as tuna or sardinesClean keto baking mixes, such as bread mix or pancake mixOlivesPre-spiralized keto pastasKeto nuts and nut buttersSparkling water (no sugar added)Plain coffee and tea
“Dirty” lazy keto food list:
Keto fast foodLow carb convenience mealsDrive-through coffee drinksLow carb foods with added starch, sugar, or artificial ingredients
For more comprehensive lists, take a look at the full keto food list and keto grocery list.
Lazy Keto Recipes
Get my list of top 15+ lazy keto meals here! You can make thousands of other keto recipes, too. You can enjoy all of these clean foods on a lazy keto diet!
Conclusion: Is Lazy Keto Effective?
Like other kinds of keto diets, the “lazy” way works with the right approach. Try to enjoy less-processed foods, keep an eye on portions, and prepare recipes with clean ingredients to get the maximum benefits!
