Keto Waffles

Is a Keto Diet Healthy for Runners?

It’s no secret, runners perform well with a healthy amount of carbohydrates. Dip too low under the minimum, and endurance and energy levels take a nosedive. Based on this alone, if anyone were to ask if keto is OK for runners, the answer should be a resounding no, since keto is known to be very low carb and high fat, with moderate amounts of protein. But does it have to be so black and white?

Some experts don’t think so. In fact, because running eats up a lot of fats and ketones during long distance runs, and ketosis can be normal during periods of long-distance, low-intensity runs, mixing it up with keto recipes can positively impact your performance. Besides, waffles are a great to-go snack during day-long periods of activity, and these keto waffles are infinitely more nourishing than their white flour, white sugar counterparts!

A High Protein, High Nutrition Waffle 

When I’m looking for a boost of protein and fat, this is one of my go-to recipes. It makes 2 servings, so just from the eggs, cheese, and yogurt, I’m almost at 25 grams of protein without counting the endless list of high nutrition toppings you can add. The cheese and almonds also add an appreciable amount of fat. Protein is great for peak performance, but consumed on its own, it won’t have quite the same impact as when it is combined with good fats, like the ones found in nuts and seeds, avocados, and more.

If you’re trying to run using an exclusively keto diet, you will definitely go through an adaptation period after which you will determine if keto is right for you. But if, like most runners, you’re mixing and matching macro-nutrient breakdowns depending on your activity and intensity, you can reap the benefits of keto recipes right away, and without having to give up waffles either!

What to Serve with Keto Waffles

Some great toppings to go with these keto waffles are avocado slices, guacamole, a side of low-glycemic berries like raspberries and blueberries, a helping of garlicky greens, fresh lettuce leaves, and more. Be sure to look at the labels if you’re specifically trying to stay low carb, as sugar can be sneaked into nearly all packaged foods.

These waffles keep pretty well for several days, so you might want to make a bigger batch to enjoy throughout the week.

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