Constipation is a possible side effect of a keto diet, especially if you're new to low-carb eating and your digestive system needs time to adjust.
Here are some tips to help prevent it:
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Eat plenty of vegetables: Choose keto-friendly vegetables like spinach, lettuce, kale, asparagus, cucumber, zucchini, eggplant, cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, bell peppers (green, red, yellow), green beans, Brussels sprouts, celery, and radishes. You can also include fiber-rich foods like avocados, olives (in moderation due to their calorie content), and mushrooms.
- Stay active: Try to stay as physically active as possible—whether by walking or doing at-home exercises. Physical activity can help reduce the time it takes for food to move through the large intestine.
- Consider fiber supplements: Add keto-friendly fiber supplements to your diet to support digestion.
- Get enough sleep: Aim for 7–9 hours of sleep each night to promote overall health, including digestive function.