Did you know that participating in an active hobby you are passionate about, like gardening, may be linked to lower rates of heart disease? You may actually get the same physical and mental benefits of exercise, minus the gym time. Gardening has also been linked to a decrease in depression, anxiety and body mass index, while boosting the quality of your life. Plus, you reap the healthy bounty of your hard-earned harvest: Fresh herbs, veggies and fruits to add flavor and nutrients to your keto and low carb meals and snacks, all right there at your fingertips to pick.
Do you feel ready to test out your green thumb or do you already consider yourself a master gardener? Whether you’re growing a few pots of herbs on your kitchen windowsill, planting tomatoes and salad greens in a container on your patio or going all-out with raised beds in your back yard, there are plenty of options for all levels of gardening expertise.
You can create your own keto-friendly garden by planting your pick of any Foundation Vegetable, but here’s a quick list to start of easy-to-grow veggies and fruits:
Berries
Cruciferous plants (broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage and Brussels sprouts)
Kale
Lettuce
Radishes
Spinach
Swiss chard
Tomatoes
Whether you’re growing your own keto-friendly garden or “harvesting” your veggies from the grocery store or farmers’ market, you’ll love these keto plant-based recipes:
Radishes with Feta and Mint Salad
Red Bell Pepper Filled with Creamy Eggs and Spinach
Sauteed Kale with Red Pepper Dressing
Swiss Chard with Garlic Butter