The Keto Vegan

#53 Wedding Woes, Butlins Bites, and VK Diner Delights: Navigating Vegan Eats on the Keto Path

Welcome to another episode of The Keto Vegan Podcast! Rachel, your dedicated host, is back to share her latest adventures in navigating the world as a keto vegan. In this episode, Rachel talks about her recent experience at her cousin's wedding, where she faced yet another challenge with the food options—or lack thereof—for vegans. Unfortunately, there were no keto vegan options, and to make matters worse, the vegan dishes she requested were gone by the time she arrived. This marks the second wedding where she's encountered this issue, and it's starting to get quite frustrating.
Rachel also recounts her trip to Butlins for an Adult Big Weekender. Thankfully, the food situation was slightly better due to the availability of a small kitchen, allowing her to bring her own food. Despite this, she ended up trying a not-so-great vegan burger at one of the pubs and later broke keto for a surprisingly enjoyable Vegan Royale at Burger King, which she suspects was more enjoyable due to a few too many G&Ts.
On a brighter note, Rachel shares her visit to VK Diner in Waterlooville, a fantastic spot her daughter discovered. This diner specialises in vegan ‘dirty’ food and offers a refreshing change with its extensive menu, giving Rachel more than just one or two options to choose from.
Join Rachel as she delves into these stories and reflects on the ongoing challenges and occasional triumphs of being a keto vegan in a world that's still catching up.
Key Takeaways
In Rachel’s recent experience weddings & vegan don’t seem to go well together.
Rachel had a bit of a rant, nothing to do with the champagne or G&Ts!
Find out what Rachel thought of the Burger King Vegan Royale.
The VK Diner is perfect for vegans and you can do keto there too. Link below.
Best Moments
“I did take some smoky almonds with me just in case there was nothing else to eat.”
“I forgot about the smoky almonds!”
“This is my fabulous cousin.” “Who’s not keto or vegan… yet!”
“Are you really doing a podcast?!”
“When I went to the BBQ for my vegan food… it had all gone!”
Valuable Resources
The VK Diner, Waterlooville: https://vkonline.co.uk/
For an extensive list of foods with their carb, fat and protein count, go here: https://www.rachelgtherapy.co.uk/1-what-why-and-how
For a keto-vegan start-up menu and shopping list go here: https://www.rachelgtherapy.co.uk/1-what-why-and-how
 
Host Bio
Rachel, a once morbidly obese individual, experienced a remarkable body transformation through the keto diet. Later, she embraced veganism and now shares her extensive knowledge and obsession with carbs in vegan proteins on The Keto Vegan podcast. Her goal is to demonstrate the simplicity of combining the keto diet with a vegan lifestyle.
Resources: https://www.rachelgtherapy.co.uk/the-keto-vegan
Watch here: https://www.youtube.com/@TheKetoVegan/podcasts
Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/821471059206067
Email: contact@rachelgtherapy.co.uk
https://theketovegan.podbean.com/
 

#52 From Lockdown to Loaves: Heidi's Journey with Keto Vegan Breads

Welcome to another exciting episode of The Keto Vegan Podcast! I'm your host, Rachel, and today we have a truly inspiring guest joining us. Heidi from Heylo is here to share her incredible journey of creating low-carb and keto breads that are perfect for those following a vegan lifestyle.
Heidi's story began during the challenging times of Lockdown, a period that prompted many of us to re-evaluate our health and well-being. With a strong desire to improve her physical and emotional health, Heidi embarked on a mission to develop healthier bread options. What started as a personal endeavour quickly blossomed into Heylo, a brand that has since gained recognition for its innovative and delicious low-carb, keto-friendly, and vegan breads.
In this episode, we'll delve into Heidi's motivations and the personal experiences that fuelled her passion for creating Heylo. She’ll share the ups and downs of her journey, the moments of doubt, and the breakthroughs that led to the success of her brand. You'll get a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process involved in developing these unique recipes and the dedication required to bring them to market.
But Heidi's story isn't just about bread. It's about the power of community and support. We'll explore how Heidi's personal network and the wider keto and vegan communities have played a crucial role in her journey. She'll also offer insights into the importance of diet in achieving overall well-being and how adopting a keto and vegan lifestyle has transformed her life.
If you're curious about how to integrate healthier food choices into your life, or if you're simply looking for inspiration to start your own health journey, this episode is for you. Heidi's heartfelt story is a testament to the transformative power of healthy eating and the supportive communities that make it possible.
Stay tuned as we dive into the delicious world of Heylo and learn how you can join Heidi's growing community of health enthusiasts. Get ready to be inspired, informed, and motivated to make positive changes in your own life.
Without further ado, let's welcome Heidi from Heylo to The Keto Vegan Podcast!
 
Valuable Resources
For an extensive list of foods with their carb, fat and protein count, go here: https://www.rachelgtherapy.co.uk/1-what-why-and-how
For a keto-vegan start-up menu and shopping list go here: https://www.rachelgtherapy.co.uk/1-what-why-and-how
Heylo
Facebook: @sayheylotolowcarbliving
facebook.com/groups/weareheylotogether
facebook.com/weareheylo
 
Host Bio
Rachel, a once morbidly obese individual, experienced a remarkable body transformation through the keto diet. Later, she embraced veganism and now shares her extensive knowledge and obsession with carbs in vegan proteins on The Keto Vegan podcast. Her goal is to demonstrate the simplicity of combining the keto diet with a vegan lifestyle.
Resources: https://www.rachelgtherapy.co.uk/the-keto-vegan
Watch here: https://www.youtube.com/@TheKetoVegan/podcasts
Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/821471059206067
Email: contact@rachelgtherapy.co.uk
https://theketovegan.podbean.com/
 

#51 Parisian Pastries: Rachel's Keto Vegan Adventure Gone Awry

Welcome to another delightful episode of The Keto Vegan podcast! Today’s journey takes us through the bustling streets of Paris, but not as a casual tourist. Oh no, Rachel, our intrepid host, decided to take on the City of Light accompanied by 35 energetic 12- and 13-year-olds. Talk about a challenge!
Rachel embarked on this school trip with high hopes of maintaining her keto vegan lifestyle amidst the croissants and baguettes of Paris. Spoiler alert: things didn’t quite go as planned. Picture this – a devoted keto vegan in a city famed for its pastries, cheese, and all things carb-laden. It was a recipe for a few dietary detours and, let’s be honest, a lot of laughs.
As Rachel navigated the streets with her young charges, she quickly realized that finding keto vegan options in Paris is like trying to find a needle in a baguette haystack. Surrounded by excited kids and the irresistible aroma of fresh pastries, she found herself in a carb-loaded culinary whirlwind. Let’s just say, Parisian patisseries won this round, and Rachel returned home with more than just souvenirs – a few extra pounds tagged along too. Damn it!
Join us for this hilarious and heartfelt recount of Rachel’s Parisian adventure, where keto took a back seat, and veganism met its match in the form of irresistible French carbs. This episode is a delightful mix of travel tales, dietary dilemmas, and a whole lot of humour. Welcome to The Keto Vegan podcast – let's dive in!
Valuable Resources
For an extensive list of foods with their carb, fat and protein count, go here: https://www.rachelgtherapy.co.uk/1-what-why-and-how
For a keto-vegan start-up menu and shopping list go here: https://www.rachelgtherapy.co.uk/1-what-why-and-how
Squeaky Bean https://www.squeakybean.co.uk/
 
Host Bio
Rachel, a once morbidly obese individual, experienced a remarkable body transformation through the keto diet. Later, she embraced veganism and now shares her extensive knowledge and obsession with carbs in vegan proteins on The Keto Vegan podcast. Her goal is to demonstrate the simplicity of combining the keto diet with a vegan lifestyle.
Resources: https://www.rachelgtherapy.co.uk/the-keto-vegan
Watch here: https://www.youtube.com/@TheKetoVegan/podcasts
Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/821471059206067
Email: contact@rachelgtherapy.co.uk
https://theketovegan.podbean.com/
 

#50 Brief Because Busy

In this episode of The Keto Vegan Rachel explains why she hasn’t had time to do a full episode – she had promised an episode on being Keto Vegan in Paris but that is now next week. Rachel moved house just 6 days ago and is still surrounded with lots of things to put away and organise as well as still doing her teaching job. She apologises that she hasn’t had time to put together the Paris episode.
Tune in next week to find out about being keto vegan in Paris on a school trip – spoiler alert – it wasn’t possible!!! Find out why and what she did.

#49 Fibre? Fiber? Fables: UK vs. US Labelling for Keto Vegans

In this episode of the Keto Vegan Podcast, Rachel explores the differences between "fiber" and "fibre" on European and American food labels and why it's crucial for accurately counting carbs. If you're following a keto diet, understanding these distinctions can make a significant impact on your meal planning and nutritional tracking. In Europe, you'll often see "fibre" on labels, while in the U.S., it's "fiber." This small spelling difference can lead to big confusion, especially when calculating net carbs for your keto lifestyle. Join Rachel as she breaks down these labelling differences, explains how they affect the final carb count, and provides tips to ensure you're getting your dietary fiber/fibre just right. Whether you're in Europe or America, this episode will help you navigate food labels with confidence and keep your keto vegan journey on track.
Key Takeaways
Fibre is a type of carbohydrate that the body cannot digest. It is found in the plants we eat, such as fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes. Fibre is essential for digestion and overall health. There are two main types of fiber: soluble fiber and insoluble fiber.
Keto examples of soluble fibre are
Raspberries, blackberries
Brussel sprouts
Psyllium
Keto examples of insoluble fibre are
Nuts and seeds
Cauliflower, green beans
Good sources of fibre in a keto vegan diet include
Avocados
chia seeds
flaxseeds
leafy greens
nuts
seeds
 
Valuable Resources
For an extensive list of foods with their carb, fat and protein count, go here: https://www.rachelgtherapy.co.uk/1-what-why-and-how
For a keto-vegan start-up menu and shopping list go here: https://www.rachelgtherapy.co.uk/1-what-why-and-how
The Keto Vegan episode on avocados – are they vegan or not? #40 Buzzworthy Bites. https://www.podbean.com/eas/pb-f4qwp-15d9cfd
Penang Village Chinese Restaurant, East Preston, West Sussex https://www.facebook.com/PenangVillageRestaurant/
 
 
Host Bio
Rachel, a once morbidly obese individual, experienced a remarkable body transformation through the keto diet. Later, she embraced veganism and now shares her extensive knowledge and obsession with carbs in vegan proteins on The Keto Vegan podcast. Her goal is to demonstrate the simplicity of combining the keto diet with a vegan lifestyle.
Resources: https://www.rachelgtherapy.co.uk/the-keto-vegan
Watch here: https://www.youtube.com/@TheKetoVegan/podcasts
Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/821471059206067
Email: contact@rachelgtherapy.co.uk
https://theketovegan.podbean.com/

#48 Cruise Control: Keto Vegan Adventures on the High Seas!

Ahoy, Keto Vegan crew! 🌊 In this episode, Rachel takes you on a three-day cruise adventure for the wedding of her fabulous friends, Luke and Kingsley. 🎉👬
Highlights:
Wedding Bells and Waves: Join Rachel as she sets sail to celebrate love on the high seas. Luke and Kingsley's wedding was nothing short of spectacular, with endless ocean views and love in the air.
Keto Vegan Challenge: Rachel put her lifestyle to the ultimate test – is it possible to stay both keto and vegan on a cruise? Spoiler alert: it’s a bit like finding a needle in a haystack, but with a lot more booze!
Drinks Aplenty: With an abundance of free booze, Rachel shares her tips on navigating the drink menu. She indulged in skinny Gin & Tonics and mostly dry champagne. Because hey, what's a cruise without a little bubbly? 🥂
Food Adventures: From scouring the buffet to the one protein-less choice at dinner, Rachel shares her encounters with cruise ship cuisine.
Pro Tips: Learn Rachel's top tips for staying keto vegan on a cruise. Hint: Pack some snacks and don’t be afraid to ask for what you need. And remember, there’s always salad… lots and lots of salad.
Tune In:
If you've ever wondered how to navigate the high seas with your keto vegan lifestyle intact, this episode is for you. Rachel's tales are filled with laughter, a few hiccups, and a lot of determination.
Listen now to get your dose of keto vegan inspiration, cruise ship antics, and wedding bliss. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review!
 
Whether you’re a seasoned keto vegan or just curious, Rachel’s cruise escapades will keep you entertained and maybe a bit tipsy. Cheers to good times and staying true to your lifestyle – even on the high seas! 🚢✨

#47 Six Scrumptious Snacks for Satisfying Keto Vegan Success

In this episode of the #KetoVegan Rachel shares some of her favourite snack ideas. If you often go to your cupboards and lack inspiration this episode is going to set you alight!
She’s got a lineup of snacks so good, they'll make you forget you're on a diet. Yes, really. From crunchy to creamy, savoury to sweet, Rachel’s got it all covered. And don’t worry, you won’t have to forage in the woods or barter with a squirrel to get these snacks – they’re all easy to make and even easier to devour.
Snacks:
Celery and almond butter [celery 1.3g carbs, almond butter crunchy Meridian 0.5g]
Smoked almonds 7.6g carbs, 10.6g fibre
Low carb veg and guacamole, salsa, artichoke and spinach dip [see episode #38 Party Palate Perfection for the recipe https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/5r3dmh/38.mp3]
Seed crackers and cream cheese and pickles [see episode #21 Crunchy Bliss for recipe https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/fay4mp/21_Seed_Crackers.mp4]
‘Bread' and ‘butter’ from Holland and Barrett or 8foods or make your own see my episode #36 Crumbs of Contention https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/gkn3w3/Bread.mp3
https://www.dillonorganic.co.uk/collections/all £4.99 a small loaf (250g) got beetroot flax, chia flax, original flax which are all keto.
https://8foods.co.uk/collections/keto-bread but a whole bagel won’t be a snack - it will be a meal.
https://www.waitrose.com/ecom/products/olinas-gluten-free-rosemary-crackers/890787-791289-791290 get in waitrose.
Olina’s Bakehouse Seeded Snackers. You can buy these from https://weareheylo.com/
Berries and double cream – raspberries (4.4g carbs, 2.5g fibre) or blackberries (4.9g carbs, 3.1g fibre).
Valuable Resources
For an extensive list of foods with their carb, fat and protein count, go here: https://www.rachelgtherapy.co.uk/1-what-why-and-how
For a keto-vegan start-up menu and shopping list go here: https://www.rachelgtherapy.co.uk/1-what-why-and-how
 
Host Bio
Rachel, a once morbidly obese individual, experienced a remarkable body transformation through the keto diet. Later, she embraced veganism and now shares her extensive knowledge and obsession with carbs in vegan proteins on The Keto Vegan podcast. Her goal is to demonstrate the simplicity of combining the keto diet with a vegan lifestyle.
Resources: https://www.rachelgtherapy.co.uk/the-keto-vegan
Watch here: https://www.youtube.com/@TheKetoVegan/podcasts
Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/821471059206067
Email: contact@rachelgtherapy.co.uk
https://theketovegan.podbean.com/
 
 

#46 Ten Tips To Thrive: Mastering the Keto Vegan Lifestyle

Welcome to The Keto Vegan podcast, where Rachel blends the best of both worlds: the ketogenic diet and vegan lifestyle! In today’s episode Rachel dives into ten essential tips that will guide you towards a successful and fulfilling keto vegan life.
First up, Rachel discusses the importance of planning your meals each week and the benefits of batch cooking. This not only saves time but also ensures you always have delicious, keto-friendly vegan meals ready to go. Next, she talks about why it's crucial not to starve yourself when starting out. Keeping hunger at bay helps prevent those tempting binge-eating episodes.
She also explores the advantages of shopping online to avoid unnecessary temptations and why it's great to try something new that's both keto and vegan. Don't forget about supplements—they can be a key part of maintaining your health on this diet.
Have you heard of urinalysis strips? Rachel explains how they can help you monitor your ketone levels. Plus, she delves into maintaining a positive mind and body vibration, and the benefits of intermittent fasting.
Visualisation and self-love, including mirror work, are powerful tools for any lifestyle change, and Rachel shows you how to incorporate these practices into your daily routine.
So, get ready to take notes and transform your keto vegan journey with these ten valuable tips.
Valuable Resources
For an extensive list of foods with their carb, fat and protein count, go here: https://www.rachelgtherapy.co.uk/1-what-why-and-how
For a keto-vegan start-up menu and shopping list go here: https://www.rachelgtherapy.co.uk/1-what-why-and-how
Holland 7 Barrett keto bread: https://www.hollandandbarrett.com/shop/product/dillon-organic-original-flax-keto-bread-60061754/
125 pee sticks: https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B07QVFHCJS/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Information on intermittent fasting: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/intermittent-fasting-what-is-it-and-how-does-it-work
My YouTube channel with various visualisations https://www.youtube.com/@rachelghinn
Host Bio
Rachel, a once morbidly obese individual, experienced a remarkable body transformation through the keto diet. Later, she embraced veganism and now shares her extensive knowledge and obsession with carbs in vegan proteins on The Keto Vegan podcast. Her goal is to demonstrate the simplicity of combining the keto diet with a vegan lifestyle.
Resources: https://www.rachelgtherapy.co.uk/the-keto-vegan
Watch here: https://www.youtube.com/@TheKetoVegan/podcasts
Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/821471059206067
Email: contact@rachelgtherapy.co.uk
https://theketovegan.podbean.com/

#45 Fur, Leather, and Ethical Dilemmas: Navigating the Vegan Transition

Recently, I posed a question on social media: “When you became vegan, what did you do with any products that were made of leather?” The responses were enlightening and sparked a lot of personal reflection. Just two weeks before I went vegan, I bought a white fur jacket that I absolutely loved. But, since then, I’ve been conflicted about keeping it.
 
Throughout this episode, I’ll be sharing my journey in trying to find a clearer answer. We'll explore the ethical differences between leather shoes and a fur coat, and why I still wear my leather footwear but haven’t touched that jacket. Is there really a difference, or am I just rationalising my choices?
 
We’ll also hear from other vegans who chose to donate their leather items to charity shops, and discuss a powerful comment from a Facebook user who said, “Wearing them felt barbaric once I had my ethical position clear in my own mind.” This got me thinking about speciesism and waste, and how they tie into our vegan values.
 
“There is no difference between fur and leather.”
“What do I do with this fur jacket? I just think throwing it away is so disrespectful… it’s trashing it. and wearing it is dishonouring what I believe in…”
“I haven’t got a ‘this is right, this is wrong’” Is Rachel still in that place at the end of the episode?
Many vegans gave their leather products to charity shops.
“Wearing them felt barbaric once I had my ethical position clear in my own mind.”
Speciesism is incompatible with veganism
“From the beginning of this episode to now I’m finding out much more information.”
“This is my process of working it through – you’re with me on this journey!”
 
 
Valuable Resources
The Elephant In The Room blog: https://theresanelephantintheroomblog.wordpress.com/2019/11/19/about-the-words-we-use-waste/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR1hBLZHUUhQsvAdeFcQksMJ7gFYVC45L83HE2niJjDebzm9LjUSlAemmbk_aem_AQY-0jimeOiqv7dSRPWesn0ocfdixLsuq6N-B93QOpiBMSR9n_QloN2ZuzTZ0Vr-K8qV5hQRbTeSRd-Mmbxyvzqt
 
For an extensive list of foods with their carb, fat and protein count, go here: https://www.rachelgtherapy.co.uk/1-what-why-and-how
For a keto-vegan start-up menu and shopping list go here: https://www.rachelgtherapy.co.uk/1-what-why-and-how
 
Host Bio
Rachel, a once morbidly obese individual, experienced a remarkable body transformation through the keto diet. Later, she embraced veganism and now shares her extensive knowledge and obsession with carbs in vegan proteins on The Keto Vegan podcast. Her goal is to demonstrate the simplicity of combining the keto diet with a vegan lifestyle.
Resources: https://www.rachelgtherapy.co.uk/the-keto-vegan
Watch here: https://www.youtube.com/@TheKetoVegan/podcasts
Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/821471059206067
Email: contact@rachelgtherapy.co.uk
https://theketovegan.podbean.com/

#44 Kitchen Capers: Navigating Batch Cooking in a Friend's Kitchen

Welcome to another episode of The Keto Vegan podcast! Today, join Rachel on a unique journey as she invites you into a day in the life of a keto vegan. Rachel finds herself in the midst of a friend's kitchen, embarking on a batch cooking adventure. With pots simmering and spices sizzling, she navigates the challenge of balancing flavours, portion sizes, and freezer space. Will she conquer the art of batch cooking without overcooking or running out of freezer room? Tune in as Rachel shares her insights, tips, and perhaps a few hilarious mishaps along the way. Get ready to be inspired and entertained as you join Rachel on this culinary escapade of keto vegan living!
Recipes
Stuffed mushrooms: 8 large flat mushrooms remove the stalks, chop them finely, add them to a pan with sesame oil (or any of your choice ready to cook), Sainsbury’s free from soft cheese, spread that on the mushrooms where you removed the stalk (not the outside!). Place those on a baking tray, Chop up spring onions, 2 boxes of This Isn’t Bacon Lardons and add them to the pan then start frying until cooked through. Baby plum tomatoes onto the mushrooms, spoon on the bacon mix, grated vegan cheese on top (don’t add this is you need to get into ketosis), top with chopped chives. Bake in a 180°C oven for 20 minutes.
Spinach, Mushroom and fake Chicken Satay: Fake chicken in a big pan, start frying in oil or cooking in vegan butter, add a bag of frozen spinach, bag of frozen mushrooms, I put in a bag of frozen Chargrilled Mediterranean veg but won’t do that again. Heat through and simmer, then I added 700g peanut butter, spices (choose which you want – I like it hot so add chilli, cayenne pepper and so on) and coconut cream.
Cauliflower Cheese with Chorizo Shroom Dog: 1 bag of frozen cauliflower into casserole dish. Chop up the shroom dogs, put those on top of the cauliflower, I put the rest of the baby plum tomatoes on top too. Sauce: 2 tubs of free from soft cheese, 300ml mayonnaise, 1 pot of Elmlea Plant Double. Garlic powder. Heat gently. No need to let it boil. Once heated through pour on top of the cauliflower etc, gently stir it around and put in the oven at 180°C. After 20 minutes, take it out, turn it to ensure the sauce is over all the veg. Top with grated cheese (careful with the amount due to the high-carb count on this) and you can add any left over chives. Bake again until thoroughly heated through and bubbling. May be another 40 minutes.
Celeriac burgerslaw. Grate the celeriac – it is much easier than I thought – I thought it would be too hard and dense but it isn’t. Then mix together with: finely chopped 2 packs of dill, turmeric, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, vegan mayo, garlic puree, mustard, chili paste, tomato puree, liquid stevia.
Valuable Resources
For an extensive list of foods with their carb, fat and protein count, go here: https://www.rachelgtherapy.co.uk/1-what-why-and-how
For a keto-vegan start-up menu and shopping list go here: https://www.rachelgtherapy.co.uk/1-what-why-and-how
 
Host Bio
Rachel, a once morbidly obese individual, experienced a remarkable body transformation through the keto diet. Later, she embraced veganism and now shares her extensive knowledge and obsession with carbs in vegan proteins on The Keto Vegan podcast. Her goal is to demonstrate the simplicity of combining the keto diet with a vegan lifestyle.
Resources: https://www.rachelgtherapy.co.uk/the-keto-vegan
Watch here: https://www.youtube.com/@TheKetoVegan/podcasts
Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/821471059206067
Email: contact@rachelgtherapy.co.uk
https://theketovegan.podbean.com/