Getting proper electrolytes, especially in the beginning of the keto diet journey, has proven challenging. Electrolytes are essential chemicals that work within the bodily fluids to form ions. These ions help with hydration and neuron transmission. Without them, muscles cramp, neurons misfire, and parts of the body fail to function properly. Beginning the keto diet journey with the proper nutrients is the healthiest way to succeed. Start growing an organic garden full of keto-friendly ingredients before switching completely to keto methods.
Collard Greens
It’s important to note that lack of electrolytes may lead to keto flu symptoms, which are avoidable with the amazingly versatile collard green. This plant leads the electrolyte list because its resulting leaves can be used in a variety of recipes, including salads and smoothies. Collard greens tolerate extreme temperatures, from hot to cold, better than any other leafy plant in the cabbage family. Organic greens fare best in soil that is 45 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
Plant seeds outdoors a half inch to a quarter inch below the soil surface, after the soil maintains a temperature above 45, in a partially sunny area. Be ready to defend the leafy greens against pests, as they are quite tempting for a variety of bugs. Hose aphids away with a strong stream from a hose, and wipe away other pest forms with a nondetergent, liquid soap mixed with water. Finally, spice it up by making a spicy spray from hot pepper seeds. The pests that bother collard greens cannot handle the heat.
Bananas
This organic fruit is tricky, because it needs a temperate climate for proper growth and production. Banana trees grow best in temperatures that stay between 60 and 98 degrees Fahrenheit all year round. However, if the plant can be fostered, either outdoors or in an artificial environment, the tree will yield fruit all year round. These trees prefer full sun, though they tolerate some shade when the weather is hot. The ground must be prepped before planting with the removal of all grass. Dig a 12-inch hole in the ground, then mix organic compost into the existing cleaned soil. Place the root, shaped like a ball, into the hole, then press the compost/soil mixture into the hole. Make sure the soil is firm enough to hold the growing tree.
Use up to 6 inches of organic mulch at the base of the tree to provide water retention and slow-release essential nutrients. Water the plant once a week, twice during super hot or dry seasons. Water less after roots have been established. Feed the plant in the spring, then stop feeding in the fall. Prune out flower clusters, leaving only one or two at a time. Remember that high winds will damage the large leaves of the plant, and at times, knock the plant over. Banana trees must be planted at least ten feet away from structures. Spraying the leaves with a strong stream of water and manually picking pests away from leaves are the best methods for getting rid of bugs that love banana leaves. Leave ladybugs on leaves, as they are natural predators for some leaf-destroying bug varieties.
Beets
Beet seeds prefer cooler temperatures. Seeds must be sown 1-inch apart in the early spring or later in the fall. They are able to live through freezing temperatures, making them versatile in a variety of environments, however, plants with more than 2 weeks of weather below 50 degrees Fahrenheit may seed early. Use up to 8 inches of mulch to limit weeds and assist with soil moisture. Feed plants every three weeks with seaweed extract and organic fertilizer created for successful beet growth. Root pests affect beets, so weeding regularly and exposing pests to predators is essential. Turn the earth in the fall to pull up pests, and use floating row covers to avoid flies. Flies will lay eggs in the soil, leaving behind destructive maggots. Finally, plant beets early to avoid pests such as the nematode. Older beets fend off these pests easier than younger beets.
The Keto diet has had proven success, especially when dieters ensure complete nutritional intake. Start a keto-strong organic base with these fruits and vegetables fresh from the garden.
Author: Jenny Holt
Jennifer Holt is a freelance writer and mother of two, who loves nothing more than to play, “where has the cat hidden itself now.”
