Best Nuts To Try on Keto

The best nuts to try on keto, including peanuts, pecans, and almonds, contain plenty of fats, limited carbs, and protein to support bone and muscle growth. Nuts are a fantastic source of healthy fats, making them ideal for staying satiated while following a low-carb diet. This guide explores the most keto-friendly nuts, highlighting delicious options that can keep you on track with your nutritional goals.

What Is a Keto-Friendly Diet?

The ketogenic (keto) diet is similar to other low-carb, high-fat diets like Atkins and South Beach. The basic guidelines for keto are simple: Limit your carbohydrate intake and boost your fat consumption to lose weight and improve overall health. Reducing carbs puts your body into a metabolic state called ketosis, using fat for fuel instead of carbs. High in healthy fats and fairly low in carbs, certain nuts work well on a keto diet, especially when you’re following a high-protein plan. And nuts are also rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants, making them a well-rounded addition to your daily food intake.

Top 5 Nuts for Keto

If you’re currently following a keto diet, try adding these nuts to your snack plan for a delicious and heart-healthy reward. Remember, portion control is key, even with low-carb options.

1 | Peanuts

The carbs in peanuts total just 4 grams per ounce (28 grams), and they're high in unsaturated fats that can help lower cholesterol. Heart-healthy peanuts are packed with plant-based protein, which can also stimulate weight loss. Peanuts are versatile—especially important when following the keto diet—and can be used to add crunch in both sweet and savory recipes at mealtime.

2 | Pecans

Pecans contain 20 grams of fat and a low 4 grams of carbohydrates per one-ounce (28 grams) serving, making them one of the most keto-friendly nuts on our list. These low-carb nuts also contain high levels of thiamine, magnesium, vitamin A, zinc, and phosphorus, so you can feel good about boosting your pecan intake and remaining true to your keto plan.

3 | Almonds

Filled with 14 grams of fat and only 5 grams of total carbs per ounce (28 grams), almonds are nutritious nuts you can eat on keto. Almonds also contain 6 grams of protein per serving, a bonus for muscle support if exercise is part of your plan. This keto-friendly low-carb nut is high in vitamin E, copper, and antioxidants that can support a healthy heart and may even decrease your risk of a type 2 diabetes diagnosis.

4 | Pistachios

Pistachios are slightly higher in carbs than some of the other nuts on our list, but they contain 12.8 grams of fat per one-ounce (28 grams) serving, making them keto-friendly. Pistachios also contain high levels of protein, essential for vegans and vegetarians who follow a keto diet plan. Like the other nuts on the keto-approved list, pistachios are high in vitamins and minerals that support cardiovascular health and weight loss.

5 | Cashews

Though cashews are higher in carbs than the other nuts on our list, you can still eat them in moderation on a keto diet. Cashews are high in fat (13 grams per 30-gram serving) and contain a host of vitamins and minerals, including a significant amount of copper, essential for energy production, and magnesium, which supports bone health.

Enjoy exploring the world of keto-friendly nuts and discovering new favorites that support your healthy lifestyle journey.

Note: This content is for informational purposes only and not meant to serve as dietary advice; always consult a doctor before starting any diet or weight loss plan.