Is the idea of a vegetarian keto diet pretty much an oxymoron? Could it be possible to follow a ketogenic style of dieting without diving in to meats galore? After all, that’s what this type of dieting is known for. It’s very high in fat and protein, much of which comes from foods such as meats and cheeses.

But what if you don’t eat meat or fish. Is it possible to follow a vegetarian keto diet technique and still come out on top? Would it be possible to keep up with the requirements if you are vegan? As it turns out, it is certainly possible, but it will be significantly harder than it would be for individuals who could simply grill a steak.

Attempting a Vegetarian Keto Diet

The dietary restrictions associated with veganism or vegetarianism present quite a few hurdles when trying to achieve a state of ketosis that would be maintained over the longer term. This is particularly true for vegans.

In fact, many nutritionists and dieticians will tell people that it is certainly possible to follow a vegetarian keto diet if you’re dedicated enough but that it is unlikely that a vegan will be able to keep it up over the longer term.

What to Know About a Vegetarian Keto Diet

The goal ratio for a vegetarian keto diet is the same as a regular one: 75 percent calories from fat, 15 percent from protein and the remaining 10 percent from carbohydrates. If you are vegetarian, this will mean that you will be leaning on eggs and dairy pretty heavily to meet that goal.

That said, it’s important to note that legumes and pulses are not permitted when you follow a keto diet. Therefore, your diet can’t look to beans and chickpeas to help boost your protein levels. It’s for this reason that most vegetarians would likely find this type of weight loss nearly impossible to sustain.

Vegetarian Keto Diet Protein Sources

Aside from dairy and eggs, there are some plant-based proteins a vegetarian keto diet follower could use. These include tofu, tempeh and seitan. You may also opt for plant-based protein powders.

If you’re a vegetarian who does not eat eggs, then you will need to supplement that protein with more plant-based meat alternatives, protein powders and a larger amount of dairy. Avocados will also be important to helping to keep healthy fat levels high, as will cooking oils.