Is Pumpkin Keto-Friendly?
Ah, fall…the kids are back in school, the leaves are falling from the trees, the joys of sweater weather is upon us, and pumpkin-flavored everything is everywhere!
But wait! When you’re on the keto diet you might be asking yourself, “Is pumpkin keto-friendly?” Luckily, the answer is a resounding yes!
Let’s break it down.
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Is Pumpkin Considered a Low-Carb Food?
Yes! If you compare pumpkin in its raw form to other vegetables, especially starchy ones (i.e. corn and potatoes), you will find that pumpkin contains much lower amounts of sugar and a higher volume of fiber to boot.
That’s why pumpkin can be easily incorporated into just about any low-carb program, even the keto diet. It is not pumpkin itself that gives recipes a higher carb count, it is the way in which it is prepared.
Looking at you, sugar-laden treats!
Related: Read my post “8 Keto Comfort Food Swaps.”
Of course, like most things, you must keep portion sizes in mind when you’re eating your favorite desserts. After all, just because the keto diet is helpful for weight loss, doesn’t mean you can go carte blanche, and eat all the things!
Is Canned Pumpkin Keto-Friendly?
This is another common question I see everywhere this time of year. The answer is as long as it’s pure pumpkin in the can, then yes, canned pumpkin is keto.
Pumpkin pie filling in a can on the other hand is not keto-friendly! The reason? It’s loaded with sugar!
So, read the ingredients, and as long as it’s just pumpkin puree (with no added sugar!), you’re good to go.
Feel free to add canned pumpkin puree to your recipes when you don’t have time to cut and chop and cook up a pumpkin.
What about Pumpkin Seeds? Are Pumpkin Seeds Keto?
Absolutely! Pumpkin seeds are a great snack while on the keto diet. Read my post, Keto Pantry Staples if you need more ideas to help you with hunger pangs.
And, if you’re going to be traveling this fall, you need my free guide How to Stay Keto on a Road Trip + 17 Easy Keto-Friendly Snacks to Pack!
Bottom Line – Yep! Pumpkin is Keto-Friendly
Overall, if prepared properly, pumpkin can be a nice addition to your keto-friendly recipes. With that in mind, here are some of my favorite keto pumpkin recipes for you to enjoy with your family this fall: