Is Imitation Crab (Crab Sticks) Keto-Friendly?

Imitation crab (crab sticks) is not a keto-friendly food choice. It is high in carbohydrates, low in fats, and may contain unhealthy additives, all of which make it unsuitable for the ketogenic diet.

Not Keto-Friendly 

• Imitation crab isn’t a good choice for people on the keto diet. It has a net carb value of 14.5g per 100g, which is too high for the ketogenic way of eating.
• On the keto diet, you must limit your daily intake of carbohydrates. You should also increase your fat intake and ensure you only eat a moderate amount of protein.

High in Carbs

• The aim of the keto diet is to push your body into the state of ketosis and maintain this state by eating at a low-carb rate. Ketosis is a metabolic state in which the body uses stored body fat as fuel rather than blood glucose.
• If you eat more carbs than is recommended per day, which is usually no more than 20–30g, you will increase your blood sugar levels and exit ketosis.

Low in Fats

• As well as watching your intake of carbohydrates, the keto diet requires you to eat more fat than you usually would. This means supplementing your diet with high-fat foods like heavy cream, coconut, and pork.
• Eating more fat helps to maintain the metabolic state of ketosis, forcing your body to keep burning fat.
• Imitation crab has a very low fat content of only 0.46g per 100g. This means that eating it will not help you stay in ketosis.

May Contain Additives

• Imitation crab is a processed food, which means it likely contains unhealthy additives. These additives may be harmful to your health.
• On the keto diet, eating more homecooked and homemade food is best to ensure that you do not inadvertently consume additives. You should focus your diet on natural and healthy foods.