What is Keto Taco Bell?
Keto Taco Bell refers to low-carb options at the fast-food chain Taco Bell that align with the ketogenic diet. The keto diet emphasizes high fat, moderate protein, and low carbohydrate intake. Some keto-friendly choices at Taco Bell include the Crunchy Taco (10g net carbs), Nacho Cheese Doritos Locos Tacos (10g net carbs), and the Chicken Power Menu Bowl (no beans or rice) with avocado-ranch sauce .
Keto Taco Bell Options
If you’re following a keto diet and craving Taco Bell, here are some options you can consider:
Crunchy Taco contains seasoned beef, shredded cheese, and lettuce on a crunchy corn tortilla shell. Despite the shell, it has 10 grams of net carbs1.
Nacho Cheese Doritos Locos Tacos: Similar to the Crunchy Taco, but with a Nacho Cheese Doritos-flavored shell. Also 10 grams of net carbs1.
Black Beans: A small bowl of seasoned black beans with 5 grams of net carbs.
For heartier meals, consider customizing the following options:
Chicken Power Menu Bowl (no beans or rice): Remove the beans and rice to get a bowl with chicken, shredded cheese, guacamole, lettuce, sour cream, tomatoes, and avocado-ranch sauce.
Benifits of Keto Taco Bell?
The ketogenic diet (or keto diet) is a low-carb, high-fat diet that offers some health benefits. Here are some of the key advantages:
Weight Loss: Keto diets can help with weight loss by reducing craving and promoting fat loss.
Abdominal Fat Reduction: A significant proportion of fat lost on keto diets comes from harmful abdominal fat associated with metabolic issues.
Improved Heart Health: Keto diets may reduce triglycerides and improve heart disease risk profiles.
Potential Brain Function Protection: Some studies suggest keto diets may protect brain function.
Reduced Seizures: Ketogenic diets have been effective in managing epilepsy, especially in children.
Improved PCOS Symptoms: Keto diets may help alleviate symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
While Taco Bell offers some keto-friendly options, it’s essential to be aware of possible side effects of both the keto diet and specific menu items. Let’s explore both:
Keto Diet Side Effects:
Keto Flu: When starting the keto diet, you might get flu-like symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, fatigue, nausea, and constipation. These usually improve within a few weeks.
Kidney Stress: A high intake of animal foods (common on keto) can raise the risk of kidney stones due to increased acidity in the blood and urine. People with chronic kidney disease should avoid keto.
Digestive Issues: The low-carb nature of keto can lead to digestive uneasiness and constipation due to reduced fiber intake.
Changes in Gut Bacteria: Eliminating high-carb foods may impact gut health.