Are Corn Tortillas On The Keto Diet
The ketogenic diet or keto diet is a low-carb, high-fat diet that involves consuming a limited amount of carbohydrates to stimulate the metabolic process of ketosis. The primary objective of the keto diet is to increase the body's production of ketones, which helps to burn fat for energy instead of carbohydrates.
If you are following the keto diet, you may have concerns about what foods you can and cannot eat. One common question people ask is whether corn tortillas are allowed on the keto diet.
What Are Corn Tortillas?
Corn tortillas are a traditional Mexican food made from masa, a type of dough made from corn that has been treated with an alkali solution. The masa is shaped into small circles, and then cooked on a griddle or comal.
Corn tortillas are a staple food in Mexican cuisine and are commonly used to make tacos, enchiladas, and other dishes. They are also a popular alternative to bread for people who are gluten intolerant or who are looking for a low-carbohydrate option.
Are Corn Tortillas Keto-Friendly?
The answer to whether corn tortillas are keto-friendly is not straightforward. While corn tortillas are relatively low in carbohydrates, they still contain some amount of carbs. One small corn tortilla has approximately 10-12 grams of carbs, with 8 grams of net carbs after subtracting fiber.
On the keto diet, the allowed daily intake of carbohydrates is typically limited to 20-50 grams, depending on your individual goals and needs. Therefore, if you consume corn tortillas, you need to be mindful of the number of carbs in order to stay within your daily carb limit.
Alternatives to Corn Tortillas on the Keto Diet
If you are on the keto diet but still want to enjoy tacos or other Mexican dishes, there are several alternatives to corn tortillas that are more keto-friendly:
- Lettuce Wraps: Use fresh lettuce leaves as a low-carb alternative to traditional tortillas. You can fill the lettuce wraps with your favorite taco fillings, such as ground beef, avocado, and salsa.
- Cauliflower Tortillas: Make your own tortillas using cauliflower instead of corn. Simply mix cauliflower rice with eggs, cheese, and some spices and bake in the oven.
- Coconut Flour Tortillas: Coconut flour is a low-carb alternative to wheat flour, and can be used to make keto-friendly tortillas. Mix coconut flour with eggs, coconut oil, and some spices and cook on a skillet.
The Bottom Line
Corn tortillas are a delicious and versatile food, but they are not the best option for people following the keto diet. While they are relatively low in carbohydrates, they still contain some amount of carbs that can add up quickly.
If you are on the keto diet, it is best to avoid corn tortillas and opt for more keto-friendly alternatives, such as lettuce wraps or cauliflower tortillas. By making simple substitutions, you can still enjoy your favorite Mexican dishes while staying on track with your keto goals.