Wild Blog — Nuts

Many people, including those following a ketogenic diet, can enjoy nuts as a popular snack. However, not all nuts are created equal when supporting ketosis on a keto diet.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll take a closer look at the science behind ketosis and nuts, the top nuts for a keto diet, the benefits of including nuts in your keto diet, how many nuts you should eat on a keto diet, recipes for incorporating nuts into your keto diet, tips for choosing and storing nuts for optimal nutrition, and potential pitfalls to avoid when eating nuts on a keto diet.

The Science Behind Ketosis and Nuts

To understand how nuts can support ketosis on a keto diet, it's essential first to understand the basics of ketosis. The metabolic state of ketosis involves using fat for energy instead of carbs. This is achieved by restricting carbohydrate intake to a shallow level, typically less than 50 grams per day, and increasing fat intake to make up the majority of daily calories.

In a ketogenic diet, the good fats found in nuts can be an essential factor in maintaining the metabolic state of ketosis. However, not all nuts are created equal regarding their macronutrient content. Some nuts are higher in carbohydrates than others, making it easier to stay in ketosis if you consume fewer.

Ketone levels in the blood, which are signs of ketosis, went up on a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet, according to a study created in the Journal of Nutrition. Ketone levels were significantly higher in study participants who followed a diet rich in monounsaturated fats, including those found in nuts, than those who consumed a diet rich in saturated fats.

Another study created by the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that consuming nuts as part of a low-carbohydrate diet can lead to improved weight loss and metabolic health markers, such as lower levels of triglycerides and insulin resistance.

Nuts have also been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can benefit overall health and may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases. One study created in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that consuming nuts can reduce heart disease risk when combined with a good diet.

Adding nuts to a keto diet can benefit your health in many ways, from helping you reach ketosis and lose weight to lowering your risk of chronic diseases. By choosing the correct nuts and monitoring your intake, you can enjoy their many benefits while staying on track with your nutrition goals.

Top Nuts for a Keto Diet

When choosing nuts for a keto diet, selecting those low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats is essential. Here are some of the top nuts to include in your keto diet:

• Macadamia Nuts - These are among the best nuts for a keto diet, as they are deficient in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats. Over 75% of the calories in macadamia nuts come from fat.
• Pecans - Pecans are another excellent nut for the ketogenic diet because they are high in healthy fats and low in carbs. They also contain antioxidants, which can help to protect against oxidative stress.
• Brazil Nuts - Selenium, a mineral necessary for proper thyroid function, is abundant in Brazil nuts. They are also low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats.
• Walnuts - Walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids essential to maintaining a healthy brain. They are also low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats.
• Almonds - The low glycemic index and high concentration of healthy fats in almonds make them a popular nut choice. Fiber and vitamin E can be found in abundance in these.
• Hazelnuts - Hazelnuts are low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats, with about 17 grams of fat per ounce. They also include a significant amount of vitamin E, which is excellent for your skin.
• Pistachios - Pistachios are relatively low in carbohydrates, with about 8 grams of carbs per ounce, making them a perfect option for a keto diet. Moreover, they include beneficial nutrients like protein, fiber, and antioxidants.
• Cashews - While cashews are higher in carbohydrates than other nuts, they are still a good option for a keto diet in moderation. Also, they contain beneficial minerals like magnesium and zinc.
• Pine nuts - Pine nuts are a great source of healthy fats, with over 19 grams of fat per ounce. They also include protein and magnesium, both required for healthy muscle and neuron function.
• Flaxseeds - Flaxseeds are a fantastic source of healthy fats and fiber, and they only have 1 gram of net carbohydrates per tablespoon, despite the common misconception that they are nuts. They are also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids and lignans, which may have anti-cancer properties.

How Many Nuts Should You Eat on a Keto Diet?

While nuts are a great source of healthy fats on a keto diet, it's essential to remember that they are also calorie-dense. This means consuming too many calories is easy if you eat too many nuts. Balancing the number of nuts you consume with your overall calorie needs and goals is crucial.

One way to determine how many nuts to eat on a keto diet is to measure them in a portion-controlled serving. For example, one serving of macadamia nuts is about 10–12 nuts, while one serving of almonds is about 23 nuts. Keeping track of your nut intake and factoring it into your daily calorie goals is essential.

Recipes for Incorporating Nuts into Your Keto Diet

On the ketogenic diet, nuts can be eaten as a snack or an ingredient. Here are some delicious and easy ways to incorporate nuts into your keto diet:

Nut Butter: Nut butter is a great way to enjoy the flavor and nutrition of nuts in a more concentrated form. Try making nut butter using your favorite nuts, or look for high-quality, low-carb nut butter at your local health food store.

Ingredients: 

• 2 cups of your favorite nuts (such as almonds, cashews, or macadamia nuts)
• 1-2 tablespoons of oil (such as coconut oil or avocado oil)
• Pinch of salt (optional)

Instructions:

1. Arrange the nuts in a baking dish and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
2. Roast the nuts in the oven for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and fragrant.
3. Let the nuts cool for a few minutes, then transfer them to a food processor or blender.
4. Add the oil and salt, and blend until smooth and creamy.
5. After putting it in a jar, you can store the nut butter in the fridge for up to a month.

Trail Mix: Trail Mix is a convenient, portable snack that can be customized to your preferences. Combine your favorite nuts with some seeds and low-carb dried fruit for a delicious and satisfying snack.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of nut mixture (such as almonds, cashews, and pecans)
• 1/2 cup of seeds (such as pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds)
• 1/2 cup of low-carb dried fruit (such as unsweetened cranberries or apricots)

Instructions:

1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl.
2. Keep in an airtight container or divide among snack-size bags to have on hand for a fast bite.

Nutty Salads: Add some crunch and flavor to your salads by adding nuts. Try topping your salad with chopped pecans or walnuts for a delicious and nutritious addition.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 to 1/2 cup of chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts)
• Salad greens of your choice
• Additional toppings of your choice (such as cheese or diced vegetables)
• Dressing of your choice

Instructions:

1. Add the salad greens and additional toppings to a bowl or plate.
2. Sprinkle the chopped nuts over the top.
3. Drizzle with dressing and toss to combine.

Nut-Crusted Meat: Use ground nuts as a coating for meat or fish for a tasty and low-carb meal. Before baking or frying, use ground almonds or macadamia nuts to coat chicken or fish.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 to 1 cup of ground nuts (such as almonds or macadamia nuts)
• Meat or fish of your choice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional additional seasonings (such as garlic powder or paprika)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) or heat a skillet over medium heat.
2. Season the meat or fish with salt, pepper, and additional seasonings.
3. Roll the meat or fish in the ground nuts until fully coated.
4. Place the meat or fish on a baking sheet or in the skillet and bake or cook until fully cooked.

Nutty Desserts: Nuts can be used to make delicious and satisfying keto-friendly desserts. Try making low-carb nut bars, nutty fat bombs, or keto-friendly nut pies.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 to 1 cup of your favorite nuts (such as almonds or pecans)
• 1/4 to 1/2 cup of sweetener (such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener)
• 1/4 to 1/2 cup of melted coconut oil or butter
• Optional additional flavorings (such as cinnamon or vanilla extract)

Instructions:

1. The baking sheet and oven should be preheated to 350F (175C).
2. Mix the nuts, sweetener, and any additional flavorings in a bowl.
3. Pour the melted coconut oil or butter over the nut mixture and stir to combine.
4. Bake for 10–15 minutes or until the top is golden. Coat the baking sheet with the mixture and spread it out evenly.
5. Let cool, and then cut into bars or bite-sized pieces.

Tips for Choosing and Storing Nuts for Optimal Nutrition

When it comes to choosing and storing nuts for optimal nutrition, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Choose Raw Nuts - Raw nuts are better than roasted or salted nuts, as they contain more natural nutrients and are lower in sodium.
• Store Nuts Properly - Because of their susceptibility to rancidity, nuts must be kept in an airtight container in a relaxed, dry environment.
• Avoid Added Ingredients - Adding oils, sweeteners, or other substances to nuts can increase the calorie and carb content beyond what you need.

Potential Pitfalls to Avoid When Eating Nuts on a Keto Diet

While nuts can be a great addition to a keto diet, there are a few potential pitfalls to be aware of:

• High-Calorie Count - Nuts are calorie-dense, so monitoring your intake is essential to avoid overeating and exceeding your daily calorie goals.
• Hidden Carbohydrates - Some nuts, such as cashews and pistachios, are higher in carbohydrates than others, so it's essential to factor their carbohydrate content into your daily intake.
• Nut Allergies - Nuts are a common allergen, so if you have a nut allergy, you must avoid them and find alternative sources of healthy fats.

Macronutrient content of 1 ounce (28 grams) of some of the top nuts for a keto diet

Nut	Calories	Fat (g)	Protein (g)	Carbs (g)	Fiber (g)	Net Carbs (g)
Macadamia	204	21	2	4	3	1
Pecans	196	20	3	4	3	1
Brazil	186	19	4	3	2	1
Walnuts	183	18	4	4	2	2
Almonds	161	14	6	6	3	3

 

These nuts are all great choices for a keto diet, as they are low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats. By incorporating these nuts into your keto diet in a balanced way, you can enjoy their many benefits while supporting ketosis and staying on track with your nutrition goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I eat any nuts on the keto diet? 

If you're following the ketogenic diet, nuts may be a terrific source of healthy fats, but you must be sure you're choosing the right kind. You should limit your consumption of nuts like cashews and pistachios since they contain more carbs than other varieties.

How many nuts can I eat on the keto diet? 

Nuts are calorie-dense, so monitoring your intake and factoring them into your daily calorie goals is essential. One way to determine how many nuts to eat on a keto diet is to measure them in a portion-controlled serving. For example, one serving of macadamia nuts is about 10–12 nuts, while one serving of almonds is about 23 nuts.

Can nuts kick me out of ketosis? 

Eating too many nuts, especially those higher in carbohydrates can kick you out of ketosis. It is essential to keep track of how many nuts you eat and include them in your daily carbohydrate goals.

Can I eat nut butter on a keto diet? 

Nut butter can be a great source of healthy fats on a keto diet. However, it's essential to choose a high-quality, low-carb nut butter and monitor your intake to avoid going over your daily calorie and carbohydrate goals.

Can I eat nuts if I have a nut allergy? 

If you have a nut allergy, avoiding nuts and finding alternative sources of healthy fats is essential. Some options include avocados, olives, and fatty fish such as salmon.

Can I eat roasted or salted nuts on a keto diet? 

Raw nuts may have more nutrients and less sodium than nuts that have been roasted or salted. It's best to choose raw nuts and avoid those that have added oils, sugars, or other ingredients that can add unnecessary calories and carbs.

Can nuts help me lose weight on a keto diet? 

Nuts can be a filling and satisfying snack that can help to control appetite and prevent overeating. However, it's essential to monitor your nut intake and factor it into your overall daily calorie goals to ensure you're in a calorie deficit if weight loss is your goal.

Conclusion

In conclusion, nuts are a great source of healthy fats and nutrients that support ketosis on a keto diet. By choosing the correct nuts and incorporating them into your diet in a balanced way, you can enjoy the many benefits they offer while staying on track with your keto goals.

With these tips and recipes, you can add some delicious nutty flavor to your keto meals and snacks while keeping your health and nutrition in mind.

Related Research with DOI:

1. Li, X., Li, Z., Zhao, X., Lu, L., Yang, X., Zhong, L., & Sun, Q. (2020). Nut Consumption and Risk of Metabolic Syndrome and Overweight/Obesity: A Meta-Analysis of Prospective Cohort Studies and Randomized Trials. Nutrients, 12(7), 1915. doi: 10.3390/nu12071915
2. Neale, E. P., Tapsell, L. C., Martin, A., Batterham, M. J., & Wibisono, C. (2019). Impact of nut consumption on satiety and other critical determinants of weight loss: a randomized controlled trial. Nutr Metab (Lond), 16, 64. doi: 10.1186/s12986-019-0389-0
3. O'Neil, C. E., Nicklas, T. A., Fulgoni, V. L., 3rd, & Tree nuts are nutrient-rich foods with cardiovascular and metabolic benefits: a review of 13 clinical trials. Nutr Res, 35(9), 819-828. doi: 10.1016/j.nutres.2015.06.005
4. Veronese, N., Watutantrige-Fernando, S., Luchini, C., Solmi, M., Sartore, G., Sergi, G., & Smith, L. (2019). Effect of low carbohydrate diet on markers of obstructive sleep apnea in patients with obesity: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Sleep Breath, 23(4), 1123-1133. doi: 10.1007/s11325-019-01840-3
5. Viguiliouk, E., Kendall, C. W., Blanco Mejia, S., Cozma, A. I., Ha, V., Mirrahimi, A., . . . Sievenpiper, J. L. (2014). Effect of tree nuts on glycemic control in diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled dietary trials. PLoS One, 9(7), e103376. Doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0103376