Introduction
If you’ve ever asked yourself, “What is the easier version of the keto diet?”, you’re not alone. The ketogenic diet has gained massive popularity for its potential benefits in weight loss, blood sugar control, and mental clarity. However, the strict version—requiring you to track every gram of carbs, fats, and protein—can feel overwhelming, especially for beginners.
That’s where the lazy keto diet and other keto diet alternatives come in. These simplified keto diet approaches are designed for people who want the benefits of a low-carb lifestyle without the stress of strict tracking and complicated meal prep.
In this guide, we’ll explore the beginner-friendly keto plans like lazy keto, modified keto, and flexible low-carb options. By the end, you’ll know exactly which version of keto fits your lifestyle best.
What Is the Easier Version of the Keto Diet?
The easier version of the keto diet is commonly referred to as Lazy Keto. Instead of tracking every macronutrient, lazy keto only requires you to monitor carb intake—usually staying under 20–30 grams of net carbs per day.
Unlike traditional keto, you won’t have to calculate fat-to-protein ratios or input every bite of food into an app. This makes it a hassle-free keto option for busy people, beginners, or anyone who struggles with strict diets.
Strict Keto vs. Lazy Keto: A Quick Comparison
| Feature | Strict Keto (Traditional) | Lazy Keto (Simplified) |
|---|---|---|
| Carb Tracking | <20–30g per day | <20–30g per day |
| Fat & Protein Tracking | Yes, strict ratios | Not required |
| Meal Planning | Precise measurements | Flexible & easy |
| Best For | Advanced keto users | Beginners & busy people |
| Difficulty Level | High | Low |
1. No Complicated Math
One of the hardest parts of keto is calculating macros (fat, protein, carbs). With lazy keto, you only focus on carbs, making it a stress-free keto eating style.
2. Beginner-Friendly Keto Plan
If you’re new to low-carb diets, lazy keto is the simplest way to start keto without overwhelm. You can easily learn the simple keto rules:
Cut out bread, pasta, rice, and sugar.
Replace them with easy low-carb meals like eggs, avocado, cheese, and meat.
3. Flexible for Busy People
Lazy keto is perfect for those who don’t have time to weigh food or track macros. It’s a hassle-free keto lifestyle that fits into daily routines.
4. Encourages a Low-Carb Lifestyle
Even though you’re not tracking every nutrient, staying under 20–30g carbs per day keeps your body in a low-carb state, helping with weight loss and blood sugar balance.
5. A Modified Ketogenic Diet Alternative
Lazy keto is essentially a modified ketogenic diet. It allows flexibility while still promoting fat-burning.
6. Less Restrictive = More Sustainable
Many people quit strict keto because it’s too rigid. Lazy keto provides a long-term, beginner-friendly keto plan.
7. Works with Other Keto Diet Alternatives
Lazy keto can be combined with:
Modified Atkins Diet (slightly higher carbs & protein).
Flexible Keto Diet (occasional carb cycling).
Low-Carb Lifestyle (not full keto, but reduced carbs).
Other Easier Versions of Keto Diets
1. Modified Atkins Diet (MAD)
Focuses on limiting carbs, but allows higher protein.
Easier to maintain than strict keto.
Great for those who prefer a balanced low-carb lifestyle.
2. Flexible Keto Diet
Also known as “dirty keto” or easy keto approach.
Prioritizes low-carb intake but allows processed keto foods.
Best for people who want convenience.
3. Simple Keto for Beginners
Based on easy low-carb meals like omelets, bunless burgers, and cheese snacks.
Doesn’t require extensive cooking or meal prepping.
Sample Lazy Keto Meal Plan (Beginner-Friendly)
| Meal | Example Dishes (Lazy Keto Style) |
|---|---|
| Breakfast | Avocado + fried eggs + cheese |
| Lunch | Grilled chicken salad with olive oil |
| Snack | Pepperoni slices + cheese cubes |
| Dinner | Bunless burger + sautéed spinach |
| Dessert | Sugar-free chocolate + whipped cream |
✅ Pros
Easy to follow
Beginner-friendly keto plan
Less stressful than strict keto
Still promotes weight loss
Flexible and convenient
❌ Cons
Harder to know if you’re in ketosis
May not maximize all keto benefits
Easy to overeat protein or hidden carbs
FAQs About the Easier Version of the Keto Diet
1. What is lazy keto?
Lazy keto is a simplified keto diet where you only track carbs, not fat or protein.
2. Is lazy keto effective for weight loss?
Yes, many people find that cutting carbs alone helps them lose weight without strict tracking.
3. What is the easiest way to follow keto for beginners?
Start with lazy keto: keep carbs below 20–30 grams and focus on whole, low-carb foods.
4. Lazy keto vs strict keto—what’s the difference?
Strict keto tracks all macros, while lazy keto only tracks carbs. Strict keto may give faster results, but lazy keto is more sustainable.
5. Can I switch from lazy keto to strict keto later?
Absolutely. Many beginners start with lazy keto and move to strict keto once they’re comfortable.
Final Thoughts: Which Version of Keto Should You Try?
So, what is the easier version of the keto diet? The answer is clear: Lazy Keto. It’s the simplified, beginner-friendly keto plan that lets you enjoy the benefits of a low-carb lifestyle without the stress of tracking every bite.
If you’re just starting out, consider lazy keto or the modified Atkins diet as your first step into the world of low-carb eating. Over time, you can adjust to stricter keto if needed.