The Future of Keto: Why plant-based Keto is the next big thing

The keto diet has been rising in popularity over the past few years, and it’s not going anywhere anytime soon. However, there are a lot of misconceptions around what exactly the keto diet entails. Many believe that the keto diet is meat-centric, leaving vegans and vegetarians unable to enjoy the benefits that a ketogenic diet offers. 

What is the keto diet?

The ketogenic diet, often called "keto," is a low-carbohydrate, high-fat eating plan designed to shift the body into a metabolic state called ketosis. In ketosis, the body burns fat for fuel instead of carbohydrates, leading to increased fat loss and stable energy levels.

The traditional keto diet focuses on consuming foods high in healthy fats, moderate in protein, and very low in carbs. This is where the misconceptions around keto being a meat-based diet come from, but there are plenty of other food sources to get your healthy fats and proteins from - it’s not all about meat and dairy!

Why plant-based keto is the next big thing

In the past, a vegan diet was only for an elite few, but thanks to innovations in plant-based foods, it’s easier than ever to stick to a plant-based keto diet. The explosion of plant-based alternatives, like vegan "cheeses," dairy-free milks, and protein powders has made the vegan diet far more accessible. 

You may ask why a vegan keto diet is preferred over the more traditional meat and dairy one. Opting for a plant-based keto diet can produce many benefits, from health improvements to helping the planet. 

Sustainability 

Plant-based diets also have a significantly lower environmental impact compared to meat-heavy diets. By adopting a plant-based keto diet, you can support sustainable food systems without having to sacrifice your health and fitness goals. 

Ethics

Plant-based products are generally far more ethical than animal products. A vegan diet is considered more ethical because it avoids the exploitation and suffering of animals often seen in the meat and dairy industries. By choosing plant-based foods and following a vegan version of the keto diet, you can support a system that prioritises animal welfare, making it a more compassionate choice.

Is a vegan keto diet healthy?

As a traditional keto diet relies heavily on foods from animal sources, it can be high in saturated fats, which raises concerns about heart health. A plant-based keto approach, on the other hand, focuses on unsaturated fats from nuts, seeds and avocados, which means it may better for heart health. In fact, research indicates that a low-fat vegan diet can lower inflammation and therefore the risk of heart disease, while ketogenic diets in general may benefit certain epilepsy types and reduce neuroinflammation. 

Plus, plant-based foods are rich in fibre, antioxidants, and phytonutrients that are great for your long-term health. Of course, a ketogenic diet may not suit everyone’s needs, especially if you suffer from a chronic health condition, so always conduct thorough research or speak to a medical professional to make sure it’s a safe option for you.

What does a plant-based keto diet look like?

A vegan keto diet can be both healthy and delicious. Plant fats play a pivotal role, meaning you can swap dairy products for more ethical, vegan options like avocados, nuts, seeds and coconut products. A good supply of dark green, healthy veggies provides essential micronutrients and fibre, adding bulk to your diet that will keep you feeling full - think kale, spinach and bok choy. Good sources of plant protein include tofu, tempeh, edamame, and vegan protein powders made from peas, rice, or hemp.

Of course, it can be difficult to keep up with a keto diet when leading a busy lifestyle. But thankfully, many high-quality, healthy food brands offer a range of vegan and keto-friendly snacks, supplements and more to help you stay on track. 

Vegan keto-friendly snacks 

Plant-based protein powders 

A common concern when embarking on a vegan diet is getting enough protein. According to studies carried out by Harvard University, those eating a keto diet should consume around 75g of protein per day. Protein powders can be a quick and convenient way to get your protein in. We love the Form Performance range, which combines organic pea protein with brown rice, hemp and whole algae protein to deliver 30g of complete amino acid profile per serving. It also comes in a range of delicious flavours including chocolate peanut, vanilla and tiramisu. 

Form Performance Protein Chocolate Peanut 520g

Low-sugar snacks

If you lead a busy lifestyle and find it difficult to maintain a keto diet on the go, ready-made keto snacks are your new best friend. From snack bars to crisps, there are a range of tasty options that you can pop in your bag and enjoy when you need a pick-me-up or a sweet treat. The Pulsin Plant-Based Keto Bars are super convenient and contain MCT - a ketone boosting source of fat. It’s also high in plant-based protein and comes in three different flavours. 

Pulsin Chocolate Fudge & Peanut Keto Bar 50g

Supplements

While there’s no substitute for a balanced meal, the keto diet does require you to cut several food options, so it’s a good idea to take supplements to make sure you aren’t missing out on any key nutrients. According to Healthline, the best supplements to take while following a keto diet are Magnesium, MCT oil, Omega 3 and Vitamin D. Some supplements are even specially formulated for keto diets, such as the Planet Paleo Keto C8 MCT Powder which is a low-carb powder made from coconuts that can be added to your morning coffee or smoothie. 

Planet Paleo Keto C8 MCT Powder 220g

Shop plant-based keto products at Planet Organic 

Make your health a priority in 2025 and give the plant-based keto diet a try. With our dedicated Keto Shop, you’ll find everything you need in one place, from dairy-free milk to protein bars and supplements. 

Visit our stores to find your nearest Planet Organic location or shop online to explore our full keto range to get you started on your health and wellness journey.