How Should CookUnity Chefs Build Meals for Carb Smart, Keto, and GLP-1 Diets?

Designing meals for specialized dietary needs is more than a trend—it’s a necessity. With increasing interest in lower carb eating and GLP-1 medications, CookUnity chefs need to create dishes that are delicious, nutritionally balanced, and easy to digest.

Carb Smart Meals at CookUnity:

• <35g carbs per meal
• Prioritize non-starchy vegetables (zucchini, cauliflower, mushrooms, eggplant, leafy greens,  asparagus, bell peppers, squash, green beans)
• Focus on lean proteins (lean meats, salmon, tofu, tempeh, eggs) and healthy fats (nuts, olive oil, avocado oil)
• Reduce empty carbs: white bread, sugary sauces, refined grains, flours

Keto Meals at CookUnity:

Keto meals are intended to support people who follow a ketogenic diet which encourages the body to use fat for energy instead of carbohydrates.  This is generally a very low carb, high fat diet with moderate protein. 

• Carbohydrates: ≤ 20g
• High Fat: ≥ 26g
• Sodium <1750mg

GLP-1 Balance Meals: Who Needs Them?

GLP-1 medications reduce appetite, slow digestion, and support weight loss, so users need high-nutrient, lower-calorie meals that don’t overwhelm their systems.

CookUnity GLP-1 Targets:

• calories <=600
• fiber >= 7g (>=5g if carbs are <50g)
• total carbs <75g
• total fat <=30g
• sat fat <=10g
• protein >=30g
• sodium <1000mg
• added sugars <10g
   
• Lower in sodium, saturated fat, and added sugars. High in protein and fiber. Avoid spicy ingredients to manage common symptoms of those on GLP-1 medications.

Culinary Solutions for Chefs:

• Think protein-first: chicken, fish, tofu, eggs, cottage cheese
• Choose smart carbs: edamame, lentils, high-fiber grains
• Avoid gut disruptors: greasy, fried, spicy, or overly rich dishes
• Manage sodium carefully: 1–2 high-sodium components max
   

Meeting these needs isn’t limiting—it’s an opportunity to show off your creativity. At CookUnity, these guidelines empower chefs to make smaller portions feel big on satisfaction and impact.

Still have questions? We’ve got your back—reach out to us anytime at [e-mail].