Is Red Pepper Keto Friendly?

Answer: Yes, red peppers are keto-friendly. Despite containing some carbohydrates, their nutritional profile fits well within the guidelines of a typical keto diet.

Red peppers, or capsicum, are a vibrant and versatile ingredient that can add both flavour and colour to your keto meals:

• Low in calories: With only 28 kcal per 100g, red peppers are an excellent low-calorie food option. This makes them a great choice for those on a keto diet who are also trying to maintain or reduce their overall calorie intake.
• Minimal fats and cholesterol: Red peppers contain a negligible amount of fat (0.2g) and zero cholesterol. This is beneficial because while a keto diet is high in fats, it’s important to balance out with foods that are low in fat and cholesterol.
• Rich in dietary fibre: They contain 1.2g of dietary fibre which can aid in digestion. This fibre content, while not contributing to the net carbohydrate count, is beneficial for overall gut health.
• Moderate carbohydrate content: Although red peppers contain some carbohydrates (6.7g), they are still relatively low compared to many other fruits and vegetables. Remember, the keto diet is low in carbs, but not necessarily carb-free.
• High in potassium: With a good amount of potassium (166 mg), red peppers can help replace electrolytes that are often depleted in the initial stages of a keto diet. This can help prevent symptoms of the "keto flu" like fatigue and headache.

In conclusion, red peppers are a delicious and nutritious addition to any keto diet. Their low calorie and carbohydrate content, combined with their rich flavour, make them an ideal choice for anyone following this diet plan.