It is no secret that we love to create recipes that utilize seasonal produce items. The summer sun is shining, which means a plethora of new produce items should be showing up in your local grocery store. Among those items, you should see an array of melons, including watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew, and maybe other varieties, depending on your location. Although not technically a melon, cucumber is another popular summer fruit. Believe it or not, cucumber belongs to the same plant family, Cucurbitaceae, as watermelon.

When you make beverages with naturally sweet ingredients, such as the cantaloupe, you do not need to add extra sweeteners, such as maple syrup or raw agave nectar. Cantaloupe is not only sweet and delicious, but it is also rich in a variety of nutrients and health properties. Like apricots, grapefruit, oranges, peaches, tangerines and mangos, cantaloupe is a great source of beta-carotene. This valuable carotenoid gives cantaloupe its orange color, but it also converts to vitamin A in the body, where it is used to fight free radicals and benefit eye health, immune function, and support red blood cells.

Although cantaloupe provides great nutrition and sweetness for this refreshing beverage, we cannot ignore the cucumber. Like cantaloupe, cucumber is a wonderfully hydrating fruit that helps enhance immune function due to its vitamin C content. Some test-tube and animal studies indicate that cucumbers may help regulate blood sugar levels. In a 2016 test-tube study, for example, cucumbers were effective at reducing oxidative stress and preventing diabetes related complications. More research is still necessary on this matter, though. What does not require more research is the deliciousness of this refreshing summer beverage!

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The last thing you want to be after enjoying a full meal is hungry. You should feel content and satiated post-meal. What we mean by this is that you should not have a growling stomach or low energy levels that typically indicate that you need to eat. If you want to indulge in a little dessert after a meal, that is something completely different, as that refers to appetite. We are talking about hunger!

The hunger you experience between meals and snacks typically means that you are not eating enough of the right foods. What do these foods have that others don’t? Focus on foods that are naturally rich in fiber, protein, and healthy fats. Don’t know where to start or what to incorporate into your meals in order to stay full between meals? Continue reading to learn more about them. 

Potatoes

Potatoes have a high water content and lower energy density when compared to other carbs like pasta or rice. That means that you can eat a bigger portion to enjoy the same amount of carbs. Potatoes also contain resistant starch, which is a type of carb that helps slow the digestive process. Here’s a pro tip: cook and then chill your potatoes for several hours before eating to increase the resistant starch content.

Greek Yogurt

Offering a combination of protein and fat, plain Greek yogurt works to slow gastric emptying. Basically, that means that it slows the emptying of the stomach, which helps keep you fuller for longer. Additionally, yogurt helps maintain blood sugar levels, reducing your urge to snack between meals. Try to begin your day with a filling yogurt bowl that contains some chopped nuts, mixed berries, and just a drizzle of maple syrup or agave nectar. 

Avocado

Rich in monounsaturated fats and fiber, avocados are excellent foods to help you maintain feelings of fullness. The healthy fats work to slow digestion, while the fiber (about 13 grams in one avocado) helps keep blood sugar stable, which reduces the likelihood of sudden hunger or energy crashes. According to research, eating one whole avocado per day can help improve cholesterol levels, reduce the risk of heart disease, and help you make healthier food choices throughout the day. 

Quinoa

Although technically a seed, quinoa is typically associated with grains. The reason for this is because its nutritional properties are more similar to grains than seeds. No matter how you categorize quinoa, one thing remains: it is an excellent source of protein. In fact, quinoa provides all essential amino acids, making it a complete protein source. Additionally, quinoa is high in fiber, which helps increase feelings of fullness and reduces your desire to eat unnecessarily. 

Legumes

Beans, peas, lentils, and peanuts (yes, they are technically legumes, not nuts) exhibit impressive nutritional profiles. Notoriously, legumes are great sources of fiber and plant-based protein, yet they have low energy density. That means that you feel quite full after eating a serving of legumes. An older article reviewed nine randomized trials that examined post-meal fullness from pulses, which belong to the legume family. The results indicated that participants were 31% more full from eating pulses compared with eating meals without pulses that contained the same amount of calories. 

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There are many foods, both unhealthy and healthy, that can easily spike blood sugar levels. If you have type 2 diabetes, then you probably know those foods pretty well, as counting carbohydrates can help you control blood sugar levels. The number of carbs in a certain food, however, is not the only determining factor that affects blood sugar. 

All carb-rich foods convert into sugar in the body, but a food’s fiber, fat, and protein all influence that food’s impact on blood sugar levels. All of those nutrients play a role in a food’s glycemic index (GI), which is a ranking of how drastically it can raise blood sugar levels compared with pure glucose. Pasta and sports drinks, for example, rank high on the list of high-GI foods. Lettuce, dark chocolate, peanuts, and other foods have a lower GI rating. Below, you’ll learn about six foods that tend to spike blood sugar levels, in addition to better ways to approach them to regulate blood sugar.

Fast Food

The common thought is that hamburgers and French fries are calorically dense and rich in unhealthy fats. That is true, but these foods are also rich in sugar and refined carbs, both of which can raise blood sugar levels. Many popular fast food chains sell burgers that contain as much sugar as a candy bar! A cheeseburger from a fast food place may contain seven grams (g) of sugar and 32 g of carbs, compared to a two-ounce Snickers bar, which contains 29 g of sugar and 35 g of carbs. Unfortunately, there is no recommendation for approaching fast food places in a healthy way. We recommend that you avoid these establishments at all costs.

Dried Fruit

Fruit can spike blood sugar levels if you consume a lot of it, but you don’t have to completely eliminate it from your diet. Many fruits offer fiber, beneficial vitamins and minerals, and antioxidants that help protect cells. When you do consume fruit, make sure that you only enjoy a single serving, as opposed to an entire bowl of fruit salad. Choose whole fresh fruits because they are not processed and don’t contain added sugars. Plus, you have the added nutrients that may help you manage type 2 diabetes. 

Dried fruit tends to have a lot of sugar and processed ingredients. That is especially true for the varieties in trail mixes and such. A whole apricot, for example, contains a little over three g of sugar, while half of a dried apricot has nearly two g. If you want to enjoy dried fruit, choose the varieties that are free of preservatives and added sugars. 

Starchy Vegetables

In large amounts, starchy vegetables like corn, potatoes, and peas can have a greater amount of carbs than non-starchy vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage. Don’t eliminate starchy vegetables from your diet; rather, eat them in moderation. Starchy vegetables still provide beneficial nutrients and are usually higher in fiber than non-starchy vegetables. Pair your starchy vegetables with foods that contain healthy fats, fiber, and lean protein. In doing so, you will dramatically reduce the likelihood of a big blood sugar spike. 

Sugar-Sweetened Drinks

We get it: soda and other sugar-sweetened drinks are delicious. It is very difficult to control your blood sugar if you drink those beverages, though. Ignore the heavy amounts of sugar in soda, sweetened juices, or teas for a second. These beverages do not contain any fiber, protein, or healthy fats. They also do nothing to fill you up and they may even increase the risk of dehydration on sunny days. The only thing they may be beneficial for is if someone needs to quickly raise blood sugar when experiencing acute hypoglycemia. Instead of drinking sugary sodas, opt for soda water, which is sugar-free and still provides carbonation. You can also add fresh fruit to water to naturally flavor the water and increase the healthy benefits. 

Some Non-Dairy Milks

Some people decide to consume non-dairy milks to reduce their consumption of dairy products. In an effort to be healthier, people who drink more non-dairy milks may raise their blood sugar levels. These milks are not low-GI foods, with oat milk being the highest in sugar. Rice milk is the second highest in sugar, exhibiting a GI of 86. If you want to drink a non-dairy milk, opt for unsweetened versions. Unsweetened soy milk, for example, contains 0.5 g of sugar and 3.5 g of protein per serving.

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Do you regularly cycle through different skin care products in search of the fountain of youth? Perhaps you have your skin care routine dialed in, but you notice that it isn’t yielding the results you want. Instead of spending more and more money on miracle skin care solutions, registered dietitians suggest that you pay more attention to the foods you eat. Your grocery list may be the secret to clearer skin. 

Many people are under the impression that a 10-step skin care routine is necessary to achieve great skin. This is primarily due to skin care ads and beauty influencers. What these ads don’t tell you is that eliminating certain foods from your diet can do your skin a great deal of good. Your skin is resilient, provided you feed it the goods it needs and craves. Instead of complicating your skin care routine, simplify it and diversify your diet. Rotate the foods you eat, not the products you use. 

Many nutritionists state that there is a connection between gut health and the appearance of your skin. In order to improve your gut health to clear up your skin, consider the following eating habits. You may notice how your skin looks and feels, but more so how you feel in your own skin. The great news is that these are not restrictive eating tips!

Keep Your Blood Sugar In Check

You don’t have to track your blood sugar to understand if your skin is trying to tell you that something is awry. For example, some people with recurring acne or eczema can experience flare ups if they eat foods that spike their blood sugar. That is primarily because big blood sugar spikes promote inflammation. Inflammatory skin conditions, such as rosacea, acne, or eczema, do not respond positively to sugar. 

That doesn’t mean you have to eliminate carbs and sugar completely from your diet. Don’t demonize them; rather, balance your carb intake with protein to curb a blood sugar spike. Add some Greek yogurt to your oats, for example. Pairing 20 grams of protein with a serving of starch can make a big difference, both for your skin and energy levels.  

Count Your Plants

No, not the amount of plants that are growing in your garden. According to research, one of the best ways to support a healthy gut microbiome is to diversify your plant intake. According to the American Gut Project, stool samples from healthy individuals indicated that they had a very rich gut microbiome in common. Most of these individuals were eating at least 30 different plants per week. 

That is drastically different from the typical American diet, which usually lacks fiber and a variety of plant-based foods. Most people only consume 14 to 16 grams of fiber per day, and the minimum is 25 grams for women and 38 grams for men. Research confirms that 95% of American adults and children fail to meet their daily fiber needs. To meet your fiber needs, aim to consume five different fruits and vegetables per day, every single day of the week. And while you’re at it, do your best to enjoy fruits and vegetables that are all colors of the rainbow to get your share of different antioxidants. 

Eat More…Especially Protein

Although there is an obesity epidemic in the United States, it is very common to under-eat, especially protein. Most people overeat carbs, sugar, caffeine, and unhealthy fats and do not eat a sufficient amount of protein, and that can negatively affect the skin. The skin requires more protein than you think, particularly if you want to enhance your skin barrier or repeat any wounds. Doubling your protein intake at meals can have a large impact on your skin, energy levels, and even your sleep. Just make sure to consume lean protein, such as wild caught fish, cage-free boneless skinless chicken, and turkey. There are also plant-based protein options to enjoy, such as legumes, nuts, seeds, and whole grains.

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Is rice a nutritious food? White rice typically undergoes processing, so manufacturers enrich it with added nutrients. The hull is missing, but so is the bran and germ. Brown rice, on the other hand, has the hull removed. White rice tends to have a low fiber content, which may cause digestive issues. All that said, many communities around the world eat white rice on a daily basis.

Rice is available in many varieties with different colors, grain lengths, flavors, and textures. That’s ringht, folks, white rice isn’t the only option available! The nutritional quality also varies depending on the type of rice, milling process, agricultural environment, and processing. For example, some varieties have a higher protein and fiber content and exhibit a low glycemic index. Other types of rice that undergo more processing may have a lower fiber, vitamin, and mineral content, which can increase the glycemic index. 

Some types of rice are more suitable for certain dishes, such as sushi rice or jasmine rice for fried rice. If you want rice that exhibits a more nutritionally diverse profile, you may want to avoid white rice and opt for other colors and varieties. Continue reading to learn more about them. 

Black Rice

Rich in antioxidant compounds, specifically anthocyanins, which give the rice its signature purple-black hue. According to researchers, including a lot of anthocyanins in the diet can improve blood glucose and lipid levels, in addition to lowering the risk of cardiovascular disease. Nutritional data states that half a cup of cooked black rice provides 3.3 grams (g) of protein, 17.2 g of carbs, 82 calories, and 1.5 g of fiber. It also contains B vitamins, selenium, zinc, and magnesium. Choose lightly milled or whole black rice varieties because milling can decrease the nutritional content. 

Purple Rice

Different from black rice, purple rice is also a rich source of anthocyanin antioxidants. Unlike black rice, purple rice has a sweeter flavor. Half a cup of cooked purple rice contains 90 calories, 19 g of carbs, 2 g of protein, and 1 g of fiber. A small study found that bread made with purple rice did not increase blood sugar levels as much as bread made with white rice. There was, however, no significant difference between white bread and bread made with purple rice. More research is still necessary to understand purple rice’s effect on blood sugar. 

Wild Rice

Did you know that wild rice is actually the seed of an aquatic grass? It has a higher protein and lower fat content compared to other rice varieties, with half a cup of cooked wild rice providing 83 calories, 17.5 g of carbs, 3.3 g of protein, and 1.5 g of fiber. Wild rice also contains a higher resistant starch content than both white and red rice. One study found that digestive starch increased glucose levels more than resistant starch. Researchers state that that is because resistant starch isn’t as digestible, making it more suitable for blood sugar regulation. 

Brown Rice

Being that brown rice is a whole grain, it does create a more balanced meal for blood sugar management. In fact, brown rice has a lower glycemic index than other rice varieties, but it does contain more arsenic than white rice. The outer layer of the grain contains arsenic, which is removed during the milling process to make white rice. This toxic metal only causes acute toxicity in high doses. Long-term exposure of arsenic through diet, though, can pose potential health risks, such as an increased risk of diabetes. A half cup of cooked brown rice offers 109 calories, 23 g of carbs, 2.3 g of protein, and 1.8 g of fiber. 

Red Rice

This type of rice is commonly eaten in southern France, Bhutan, and Thailand. It has a similar nutty flavor and aroma to basmati rice, but red rice has anthocyanins, which is what gives red rice its color. The anthocyanin content isn’t as prevalent in red rice as it is in purple or black rice, which explains the lighter color. Half a cup of cooked red rice contains 92 calories, 19 g of carbs, 2.1 g of protein, and less than 1 g of fiber.

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Berberine is a naturally occurring compound in many plants. For thousands of years, it has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Ayurveda, and other medicinal traditions to treat digestive disorders, inflammatory conditions, and infections. Some research indicates that it may offer protection against high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol, among other conditions. 

What Is Berberine?

Extracted from several plants, berberine is a bioactive compound that belongs to the alkaloid class. It is yellow and typically used as a dye, despite its long history in traditional medicinal applications. Modern evidence suggests that it exhibits impressive health benefits that may address chronic conditions. As of now, limited human research indicates that berberine may lower cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood sugar levels. This is of great interest to the health experts because these are reversible risk factors for heart disease. Although it appears to be safe and only causes a few mild side effects, you may want to consult a healthcare professional if you are interested in taking it. 

How Does Berberine Work?

There have been hundreds of studies on berberine’s effects on the body. According to animal studies, one of berberine’s primary actions is to activate AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), an enzyme inside cells. Found in cells throughout the body, AMPK has an active role in regulating metabolism and energy levels. Berberine also has an effect on other molecules inside cells, potentially affecting which genes are turned on or off. That may help protect against many chronic health conditions, but more research is necessary on this matter. Continue reading to learn more about berberine’s health benefits. 

May Protect Against Bacterial Infections

A 2022 study found that berberine helped prevent the growth of Staphylococcus aureus. Researchers note that this bacterial strain can cause sepsis, pneumonia, meningitis, and a range of skin conditions. Another study found that berberine exhibited an ability to damage the DNA and protein of certain bacteria, due to its antimicrobial activity. 

It Helps Lower Blood Sugar Levels

According to many studies, berberine can significantly lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. In 2008, study authors monitored a group of 116 participants who took one gram of berberine per day. The results indicated that berberine lowered fasting blood sugar by 20%, and it also lowered hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) by 12%. Additionally, berberine improved blood lipids, including cholesterol and triglycerides. Researchers note that berberine seems to work in several ways to aid these processes:

• Decreases sugar production in the liver
• Reduces insulin resistance to make insulin more effective
• Increases the amount of beneficial bacteria in the gut
• Slows the breakdown of carbohydrates in the gut
• Increases glycolysis, which helps the body break down sugars inside cells

May Aid Weight Loss

There is a lot of attention on berberine because it may be a viable weight loss supplement. An older 12-week study involved people with obesity who took 500 milligrams (mg) of berberine three times daily. At the end of the study, participants experienced five pounds of weight loss, on average, with a 3.6% reduction in body fat. A review of 12 studies noted that supplementing with berberine led to significant reductionist body weight, belly fat, and body mass index. It was also effective at decreasing C-reactive protein, a marker of inflammation. Other research found that berberine works to inhibit the growth of fat cells at a molecular level, which may promote weight loss. Although existing research is promising, more research is necessary to determine berberine’s weight loss effects.

It Helps Lower Cholesterol

If you have high levels of triglycerides and LDL cholesterol, you have a higher risk of heart disease and stroke. Some research suggests that berberine may help lower LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels. One review of both animal and human studies found that berberine exhibits cholesterol lowering effects. Researchers believe that berberine’s effects are similar to drugs that reduce high cholesterol. The only difference is that berberine does not cause the same side effects. 

May Benefit People With Obesity

There is an obesity epidemic in the United States, and it increases a person’s risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. One review found that people who took 750 mg of berberine twice daily for three months experienced significant weight loss. Another double-blind study monitored people with metabolic syndrome who took 200 mg of berberine three times daily. Participants experience decreases in their body mass index scores. Finally, some research suggests that berberine works similarly to metformin, a drug that doctors typically prescribe people with type 2 diabetes. Additionally, berberine works to alter gut bacteria, which may benefit people with diabetes and obesity.

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A weight loss journey is like a rollercoaster: there are many ups and downs and turn-em-arounds. It’s possible for the number on the scale to increase just as you saw it decline for weeks at a time. This is called hitting a weight loss plateau, and it can seem like all the effort in the world won’t get rid of more pounds. 

Many factors influence how you lose weight. There isn’t an excuse to stop what you’re doing just because your weight stops going down. Sometimes, you just need to evaluate your weight loss strategies and see what else your body needs to continue your weight loss. Oftentimes, a weight loss plateau means that the body is in a phase where it needs to maintain that weight for a bit. When that isn’t the case, hormones, diet, or other factors may be at play. The numbers that don’t budge should not discourage you from staying on the healthy path, though. 

The scale is merely one instrument that indicates progress. There are many other signs that are worthy of celebration. Keep an eye out for the following weight loss indicators and celebrate them when you notice. Celebrating small victories can boost your morale and may even encourage you to work harder and push forward. 

You Feel Stronger

Are you lifting heavier at the gym? Do you pick up items that used to seem heavy with ease? Increased strength is an indicator that you are on the right track toward your weight loss goals. A stronger body can mean that you have more muscle mass than before, which means the number on the scale may stop going down. Eventually, as you adapt your routine, you will build muscle mass and lose more fat to continue your weight loss journey. Trust in the process and be proud of your stronger body.

Your Heart Is Healthier 

Improving your metabolic markers (blood pressure or cholesterol levels) can play a big role in the health of your heart. A healthier heart is always worth celebrating, especially on your weight loss journey. You don’t have to see a gigantic jump on the scale to improve metabolic markers either. A small change in body weight can do more for your heart than you realize. 

Your Clothes Fit Better

Sometimes, you may lose inches quicker than you lose weight. This is why you shouldn’t always base your progress off the number on the scale. It’s very uncommon for people to measure their thighs, arms, waist, etc., all of which indicate weight loss. Keep an eye on how things fit during your journey and give yourself a pat on the back if a pair of pants or a jacket goes on more easily after working hard. 

You Manage Blood Sugar Better

Feeling discouraged about your weight loss journey because the scale isn’t reflecting your hard work? Check your blood glucose levels because stable levels can indicate immense progress. Fat is hormonally active, so your blood sugar can be hard to regulate when you have excess body fat. This is why blood sugar regulation can be difficult for people with insulin resistance, or those who are overweight or obese. When you make positive changes in your diet and lifestyle regimen, you should have an easier time balancing blood sugar. Check the numbers and be proud of the control!

You Have More Energy

Do you have a little more pep in your step than you did before you began your health journey? More energy is a big indicator of progress, even if the pounds are not coming off as quickly as you’d like. When you have extra weight on the body, you can become physically, emotionally, and spiritually tired very quickly. To no surprise at all, weight weighs you down, but prioritizing your wellness and doing the work can help you feel more energetic. The same movements that used to tire you out may no longer have that effect. Celebrate that progress because you deserve it.

You Like The Way You Look

Praising your body can be a difficult hurdle to jump over, especially if you have a history of body image struggles. When you start admiring what you see in the mirror, you need to celebrate the progress that got you there. You did the work, boosted your confidence, and changed your health! Just remember that self-confidence isn’t a number on the scale, and that embracing your body can be a game-changer to your weight loss journey. Write down compliments about yourself every day as a way to affirm your progress.

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Bananas are some of the most readily available and relatively inexpensive fruits. You can commonly see them hanging from the top of a kitchen fruit basket in most homes. Bananas happen to be an excellent choice if you want to include more potassium, vitamin C, vitamin B6, magnesium, and various antioxidants and polyphenols. This article aims to cover some of the many health benefits of bananas. 

Nutritional Profile

Bananas offer a fair amount of fiber, water, antioxidants, and complex carbohydrates, but they are low in protein and fat. One medium banana offers the following nutrients:

• Calories: 112
• Protein: 1 gram (g)
• Fat: 0.4 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Carbs: 29 g
• Riboflavin: 7% of the daily value (DV)
• Niacin: 5% of the DV
• Vitamin C: 12% of the DV
• Potassium: 10% of the DV
• Folate: 6% of the DV
• Magnesium: 8% of the DV
• Copper: 11% of the DV

May Support Heart Health

Because one banana offers 10% of the DV of potassium, enjoying a banana day may help regulate blood pressure levels. Potassium is a vital nutrient for blood pressure management. In fact, a potassium-rich diet can help lower the risk of hypertension. A 2021 study found that people who consumed more than 3,000 milligrams (mg) of potassium per day had a 25% lower risk of cardiovascular disease than those who did not consume potassium. Bananas also contain magnesium, which is a mineral involved with heart health management. 

May Improve Kidney Health

Although potassium is vital for blood pressure regulation, it also plays a role in kidney function. A study from 2019 included more than 5,000 people with early stage chronic kidney disease. Study authors linked the consumption of potassium to lower blood pressure and a slower progression of kidney disease. That said, some people who have late-stage kidney disease or those on dialysis need to restrict their potassium intake. If you fall into either of those categories, consult your healthcare professional before you increase your potassium intake. 

Rich In Vitamin B6

Vitamin B6, or pyridoxine, is a water-soluble vitamin that is necessary for normal brain development and keeping the nervous and immune systems healthy. The vitamin B6 from bananas is easily absorbed by the body and can help with:

• The production of red blood cells
• Metabolizing amino acids
• The removal of unwanted chemicals from the liver and kidneys
• Metabolizing carbohydrates and fats for energy
• Maintaining healthy nervous system function 
• Benefitting fetal development in the womb (for pregnant women)

May Improve Blood Sugar Levels

Bananas contain soluble fiber, which dissolves into a liquid to form a gel during the digestive process. Unripe, or green, bananas also contain resistant starch, a type of fiber that the body does not digest. Together, resistant starch and soluble fiber can help regulate blood sugar levels after meals. Additionally, they may help regulate your appetite by slowing the rate at which the stomach empties. Even though bananas have a higher carb count, they may not cause blood sugar spikes in people with diabetes. A 2021 study noted that the glycemic index of bananas is 47 (low) and the glycemic load is 7 (low). 

Respectable Source Of Vitamin C

It’s not common to associate bananas with vitamin C, but a medium-sized banana provides 10% of the DV. Just keep in mind that a banana doesn’t offer the same amount of vitamin C as a kiwi, guava, or bell pepper, all of which offer an impressive amount. Vitamin C can help with:

• Better absorption of iron
• Protecting the body against cell and tissue damage
• Collagen production, which is an essential protein necessary for optimal skin and bone health
• Supporting serotonin production, which has an affect on sleep cycle, overall mood, and the ability to deal with stress and pain

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If you adhere to the ketogenic diet, you have one responsibility: keep the body in a state of ketosis. Ideally, you consume 60 to 80% of your calories from fat (preferably healthy fats), 20% of your calories from protein, and 10% from carbohydrates. These percentages have a little wiggle room, but the main thing to remember is not to consume too many carbs, or else you will kick your body out of ketosis. 

The idea of the ketogenic diet is based on the understanding that the body uses carbs as the primary fuel source for energy. Once your carbohydrate stores are depleted, the body starts using fat stores to carry out its functions. In theory, it makes sense that this diet will help encourage weight loss, but only if the body continues to burn fat, not carbs. That’s why selecting the right sweetener is paramount, as the wrong ones will drastically increase your carb intake. 

Which sweeteners are acceptable to consume on the keto diet? Stevia and erythritol, which essentially have no carbs, are great keto-friendly sweeteners, but there are others you can enjoy that will keep the body in ketosis. Continue reading to learn more about them. 

Monk Fruit

A great keto-friendly sweetener that often goes unnoticed is monk fruit, which is a plant native to China. In grocery stores, you will likely see it under names like PureLo or Monk Fruit in the Raw. According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), this sweetener is safe and about 100-250 times sweeter than regular table sugar. It is calorie-free and one teaspoon (tsp) contains 0.5 grams (g) of carbs. The mogrosides in monk fruit give it the natural sweetness, but they also act as prebiotics, according to some studies. More research is necessary to determine the effects of mogrosides on existing probiotics in your gut.

Yacon Syrup

This is probably a lesser-known sweetener, regardless of your involvement in the keto world. Yacon syrup comes from the roots of the bacon plant, which is native to South America. The syrup contains 50% of the calories of table sugar and is a fabulous source of fructooligosaccharides (FOS). This type of soluble fiber helps regulate cholesterol, but like other sugar alcohols, it may cause bloating or cramps in some people. Yacon syrup works best in coffee or tea, but it may also be used to sweeten salad dressings. Because FOS break down at high temperatures, avoid using it in recipes that involve cooking. 

Stevia

This is a classic low-carb sweetener native to South America, specifically Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay, although it grows all over the world. In grocery stores, you will probably see it under names like PureVia or Truvia, but there are many manufacturers that create liquid or powdered versions. Some research found that stevia may lower blood sugar, which could be dangerous for diabetics who take insulin. That said, it may help lower blood pressure, which could benefit someone with high blood pressure. Much like yacon syrup, stevia works well in coffee and tea. Just keep in mind that it is about 200-400 times sweeter than table sugar and will not work well if used in large amounts. 

Xylitol 

Although this sugar alcohol is just as sweet as table sugar, it has fewer calories and carbs. Generally speaking, sugar alcohols do not raise blood sugar in the same way that table sugar does. The reason for this is because the body absorbs sugar alcohol, such as xylitol, much more slowly. According to the FDA, consuming too much xylitol, or other type of sugar alcohol, may cause cramps or diarrhea. You can add xylitol to coffee, tea, and smoothies, but it probably won’t work well in lots of recipes due to potential moisture absorbency. A 2022 study found that xylitol absorbed moisture when used to sweeten chocolate milk. 

Erythritol 

This naturally-occurring sugar alcohol is found in fruits like watermelon and grapes. It also exists in fermented foods, such as soy sauce and cheese. It is roughly 60 to 80% as sweet as table sugar and has zero calories. Erythritol does not spike your blood sugar, nor does it promote tooth decay. Preliminary evidence suggests that erythritol may help lower your total sugar consumption, which could decrease your risk of diabetes and obesity. Use erythritol as a substitute for table sugar in beverages and recipes. Just keep in mind that it has a cooling effect on the tongue and that may feel unpleasant if you use a lot of it.

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The body requires magnesium to carry out hundreds of functions, yet nearly 50% of American adults do not consume enough on a daily basis. Failure to consume the recommended daily intake (RDI) of magnesium can increase the risk of developing chronic diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, and osteoporosis. Magnesium primarily exists in your bones, muscles, and non-muscular soft tissue. It’s involved in:

• Regulating blood pressure
• Energy production
• Bone density
• Muscle and nerve function
• Synthesizing protein
• Repairing DNA
• Controlling blood sugar

According to dietitians, your daily magnesium needs depend on age and gender. Typically, adult males need 400-420 milligrams (mg) of magnesium per day, while adult females require 310-400 mg per day. Signs of magnesium deficiency vary from minor to severe, but severe magnesium deficiency is quite rare. Common signs include loss of appetite, fatigue, vomiting, and weakness.

Although there are many food sources of magnesium, this article highlights magnesium-rich fruits. Eating these fruits on a regular basis can help you boost magnesium levels. 

Durian

Now, this is a fruit that you’ll either love or hate; there is no straddling the line with this one. The reason for this is because it emits a smell reminiscent of rotten onions and sulfur. Lovely, we know, but it does have health benefits despite the foul aroma. Native to Southeast Asia, durian is a large spiky fruit with a creamy center. Durian is naturally rich in potassium, vitamin C, B vitamins, and magnesium, with one cup offering 17% of the RDI. 

Avocado

Unlike a lot of the other fruits on this list, avocado is relatively low in carbohydrates, which is why many keto enthusiasts enjoy them. They are rich in healthy fats, potassium, fiber, and magnesium, with one cup offering 10.35% of the RDI. Due to their high-fiber content, avocados may help control blood sugar by slowing the absorption of sugar into your bloodstream. The omega-3s also work to promote healthy heart and brain function. 

Prickly Pear

The prickly pear is the fruit that is produced by the Opuntia, commonly referred to as the prickly pear cactus. The oval-shaped fruits have a sweet flavor that is similar to berries. They are naturally rich in vitamin C and potent antioxidant compounds. For reference, one cup of prickly pear provides 23% of the RDI for vitamin C, which supports immune function. Additionally, these fruits are some of the richest fruit sources of magnesium, with one cup offering 30% of the RDI. 

Jackfruit 

This is potentially the largest fruit that you’ll ever see, but you usually have to visit specialty markets to see it in its raw form. Canned jackfruit is available, but it doesn’t compare to the fresh version. Native to India, jackfruit is the largest edible fruit in the world and can weigh up to 110 pounds. One cup of raw jackfruit, which has a subtly sweet taste, contains 11% of the RDI of magnesium. The same serving also provides 16% of the RDI of potassium, which aids blood pressure regulation. 

Bananas

Similar to avocados and jackfruit, bananas offer both magnesium and potassium. One cup of sliced banana offers 9.6% of the RDI of magnesium. Bananas also offer a much-needed vitamin for metabolism, immune function, and neurotransmitter production: vitamin B6. This B vitamin is necessary for encouraging healthy brain development and keeping the nervous and immune systems functioning optimally. 

Papaya

Papain isn’t the only great thing about papaya! As a quick note, papain is a proteolytic enzyme in papaya that helps break down proteins in the digestive system. The papaya is a tropical fruit that also contains carotenoid antioxidants, vitamin C, and folate. Their rich orange color and many of their heart-protective properties are attributed to lycopene, a carotenoid pigment. Now, papaya wouldn’t be on this list without offering up some magnesium. One cup of papaya offers 8.2% of the RDI of magnesium. 

Passion Fruit

This tropical fruit blooms on a vine native to South America. The flower on the vine is one of the most stunning purple and white flowers you’ll ever see! If unripe, the fruit is highly sour, but it is incredibly sweet and highly addictive when perfectly ripe. Some people are averse to the seeds for textural reasons, but they are edible. One cup of passion fruit offers a diverse mix of nutrients, including 16.2% of the RDI of magnesium. It also offers vitamin A, which is necessary for healthy immune function, reproductive health, vision, and normal growth and development. 

Dried Figs

To round out the list of the top eight magnesium-rich fruits, we have dried figs. One cup provides 24% of the RDI of magnesium, in addition to 50% of the RDI of fiber. Dried figs also provide vitamin B6, calcium, and an assortment of polyphenol antioxidants, which offer protections against cellular damage.

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