Finding the Perfect Keto Snacks
1. Read Labels and Choose Wisely
When selecting snacks, it’s important to read labels carefully. Look for snacks that are low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats. Avoid snacks that contain added sugars or artificial ingredients. Opt for snacks that are made with real, whole foods and have minimal processing.
2. Focus on Healthy Fats
One of the key principles of the ketogenic diet is to consume a high amount of healthy fats. When choosing snacks, look for options that are rich in healthy fats such as avocados, nuts, and seeds. These snacks not only provide a satisfying crunch but also help keep you feeling full and satisfied.
3. Incorporate Protein
Protein is an essential macronutrient that plays a crucial role in maintaining muscle mass and supporting overall health. When selecting keto snacks, consider options that are high in protein, such as hard-boiled eggs, jerky, or Greek yogurt. These snacks not only provide a boost of protein but also help keep you feeling satiated.
4. Get Creative with Vegetables
Vegetables are an excellent source of essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. While some vegetables may be higher in carbohydrates, there are plenty of low-carb options that can be enjoyed as snacks. Get creative with your vegetable choices and try snacking on celery sticks with almond butter, cucumber slices with cream cheese, or roasted Brussels sprouts.
5. Plan Ahead and Prep Snacks
To ensure you always have keto-friendly snacks on hand, it’s important to plan ahead and prep snacks in advance. Take some time each week to prepare snacks such as homemade trail mix, keto-friendly energy balls, or pre-cut vegetables. Having these snacks readily available will make it easier to stick to your ketogenic lifestyle and avoid reaching for unhealthy options.
By following these tips and incorporating keto-friendly snacks into your diet, you can stay on track with your ketogenic lifestyle and enjoy the benefits it brings to your health. Remember to always listen to your body and choose snacks that align with your individual dietary needs and preferences.
Finding Keto Snacks
1. Focus on Whole Foods
One of the best ways to ensure your snacks are keto-friendly is to focus on whole foods. These are foods that are minimally processed and contain no added sugars or refined carbohydrates. Examples of keto-friendly whole foods include nuts, seeds, avocados, and low-carb vegetables like celery and cucumber. These foods are not only low in carbohydrates but also provide essential nutrients and healthy fats.
2. Incorporate Healthy Fats
Fat is a key component of the ketogenic diet, as it helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied. When choosing snacks, look for options that are rich in healthy fats. This could include snacks like cheese, olives, or even a small handful of nuts. You can also incorporate healthy fats into your snacks by adding a dollop of nut butter to celery sticks or enjoying a slice of avocado on top of a hard-boiled egg.
3. Plan Ahead
To ensure you always have keto-friendly snacks on hand, it’s important to plan ahead. Take some time each week to prepare and portion out snacks that you can grab and go. This could include things like pre-cut vegetables with a side of dip, hard-boiled eggs, or homemade keto-friendly energy balls. By having these snacks readily available, you’ll be less likely to reach for high-carb options when hunger strikes.
4. Get Creative with Recipes
Another way to keep your keto snacks interesting is to get creative with recipes. There are countless keto-friendly snack recipes available online that can help satisfy your cravings while staying within your dietary goals. From keto-friendly cookies and muffins to homemade beef jerky and kale chips, there are plenty of options to choose from. Experiment with different recipes and flavors to find snacks that you truly enjoy.
5. Stay Hydrated
Sometimes, what we perceive as hunger is actually thirst. To avoid unnecessary snacking, make sure you’re staying hydrated throughout the day. Drinking plenty of water can help curb cravings and keep you feeling satisfied between meals. If you’re looking for a little extra flavor, try infusing your water with fresh herbs or slices of citrus fruit.
By focusing on whole foods, incorporating healthy fats, planning ahead, getting creative with recipes, and staying hydrated, you can easily find and prepare delicious keto snacks. Remember, the key is to choose snacks that are low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats to support your ketogenic lifestyle.
Choosing Keto-Friendly Snacks
-
Read the Nutrition Labels: Before purchasing any snack, take a moment to read the nutrition label. Look for snacks that are low in net carbs, which is calculated by subtracting the fiber content from the total carbohydrates. Aim for snacks that have less than 5 grams of net carbs per serving.
-
Focus on Healthy Fats: Since the ketogenic diet is high in fat, it’s important to choose snacks that are rich in healthy fats. Look for snacks that contain sources of healthy fats such as avocados, nuts, seeds, and coconut oil. These fats will help keep you feeling satisfied and provide a steady source of energy.
-
Avoid Added Sugars: Many snacks on the market are loaded with added sugars, which can quickly kick you out of ketosis. Be sure to avoid snacks that contain ingredients like cane sugar, corn syrup, or artificial sweeteners. Instead, opt for snacks that are naturally sweetened with ingredients like stevia or monk fruit extract.
-
Opt for Whole Foods: Instead of reaching for processed snacks, try to incorporate whole foods into your snacking routine. Fresh vegetables, such as celery sticks or cucumber slices, can be paired with a keto-friendly dip like guacamole or ranch dressing. Hard-boiled eggs, cheese cubes, and sliced deli meats are also great options.
-
Plan Ahead: To ensure you always have keto-friendly snacks on hand, it’s helpful to plan ahead. Prepare snacks in advance and portion them out into individual servings. This way, you can grab a snack when you’re on the go or feeling hungry without reaching for something that may not align with your ketogenic goals.
Finding the Right Keto Snacks
-
Read Labels Carefully: When choosing snacks, it’s important to read the labels carefully to ensure they fit within the parameters of a ketogenic diet. Look for snacks that are low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats. Avoid snacks that contain added sugars or high amounts of carbohydrates.
-
Focus on Whole Foods: Instead of relying on processed snacks, try to incorporate more whole foods into your diet. Snacks like nuts, seeds, and avocados are great options as they are high in healthy fats and low in carbohydrates.
-
Plan Ahead: To avoid reaching for unhealthy snacks when hunger strikes, it’s important to plan ahead. Take some time each week to prepare keto-friendly snacks that you can easily grab when you’re on the go. This could include things like pre-portioned bags of nuts, homemade keto granola bars, or sliced vegetables with a side of guacamole.
-
Get Creative: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your keto snacks. There are plenty of delicious options that can satisfy your cravings while still keeping you in ketosis. For example, you can make keto-friendly versions of your favorite snacks, such as cauliflower pizza bites or zucchini fries.
-
Stay Hydrated: Sometimes, what we perceive as hunger is actually thirst. Make sure to stay hydrated throughout the day by drinking plenty of water. This can help curb your cravings and prevent you from reaching for unhealthy snacks.
Find Keto-Friendly Snacks
-
Read Labels: When shopping for snacks, always read the labels carefully to check the nutritional information. Look for snacks that are low in carbs and high in healthy fats. Avoid snacks that contain added sugars or artificial ingredients.
-
Choose Whole Foods: Opt for snacks that are made from whole, unprocessed foods. Fresh vegetables, nuts, seeds, and cheese are all great options. These snacks not only provide essential nutrients but also help keep you feeling full and satisfied.
-
Get Creative with Recipes: Experiment with different recipes to create your own keto-friendly snacks. For example, you can make homemade kale chips, roasted nuts, or even low-carb energy balls using ingredients like almond flour, coconut oil, and unsweetened cocoa powder.
-
Stock Up on Keto-Friendly Snacks: Keep your pantry and fridge stocked with keto-friendly snacks so that you always have something on hand when cravings strike. Some great options include beef jerky, hard-boiled eggs, olives, and avocados.
-
Plan Ahead: Planning your snacks in advance can help you stay on track with your keto diet. Take some time each week to prepare and portion out your snacks so that they are easily accessible when you need them. This can help prevent impulsive snacking on high-carb foods.
Monitoring Your Progress: Tracking Ketone Levels and Other Key Metrics
Understand the Importance of Ketone Levels
Ketone levels indicate the state of ketosis in your body, where it is primarily burning fat for fuel instead of carbohydrates. Monitoring your ketone levels can help you determine whether you are in a state of ketosis and how deeply you are in it. This information is crucial for assessing the effectiveness of your diet and making any necessary adjustments.
Choose a Ketone Testing Method
There are several methods available for measuring ketone levels, including urine, blood, and breath tests. Each method has its pros and cons, so it’s important to choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences. Urine tests are affordable and easy to use but may not provide the most accurate results. Blood tests are more accurate but require a blood sample. Breath tests are non-invasive but may not be as precise as blood tests.
Establish a Testing Routine
Consistency is key when it comes to monitoring your progress. Establish a regular testing routine to ensure accurate and reliable results. Determine the frequency of testing that works best for you, whether it’s daily, weekly, or bi-weekly. Stick to your chosen schedule to track your progress consistently over time.
Record and Analyze Your Results
Keep a record of your ketone levels and other key metrics in a journal or a digital tracking tool. This will allow you to track your progress over time and identify any patterns or trends. Analyze your results to determine whether you are consistently in ketosis and if your levels are within the desired range. This information will help you make informed decisions about your diet and lifestyle.
Adjust Your Approach as Needed
Based on your monitoring and analysis, make any necessary adjustments to your ketogenic approach. If your ketone levels are consistently low or fluctuating, you may need to modify your diet or lifestyle factors such as exercise or stress management. Consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian to get personalized guidance and support in optimizing your ketogenic journey.
By following these steps and diligently monitoring your progress, you can gain valuable insights into your ketogenic journey and make informed decisions to achieve your health and wellness goals. Remember, consistency and regular tracking are key to success on the ketogenic diet.
Choosing the Right Snacks for a Balanced Ketogenic Diet
1. Prioritize Low-Carb Options
One of the key principles of a ketogenic diet is to limit your carbohydrate intake. When selecting snacks, prioritize options that are low in carbs. This means avoiding snacks that are high in sugar, grains, or starchy vegetables. Instead, opt for snacks that are rich in healthy fats and protein, as these macronutrients are essential for maintaining ketosis.
2. Include Healthy Fats
Healthy fats are a cornerstone of the ketogenic diet. They provide a steady source of energy and help keep you feeling satisfied between meals. When choosing snacks, look for options that are rich in healthy fats, such as avocados, nuts and seeds, olives, and coconut products. These snacks not only provide essential nutrients but also help promote ketosis.
3. Incorporate Protein
Protein is another important component of a balanced ketogenic diet. It helps support muscle growth and repair, as well as keeping you feeling full and satisfied. When selecting snacks, consider options that are high in protein, such as hard-boiled eggs, jerky, or Greek yogurt. These snacks can help meet your protein needs while keeping your carbohydrate intake in check.
4. Opt for Whole Foods
When it comes to snacks, it’s best to choose whole foods over processed options. Whole foods are generally more nutrient-dense and provide a wider range of essential vitamins and minerals. Some examples of whole food snacks that are suitable for a ketogenic diet include fresh vegetables with dip, cheese, or sliced deli meats. These snacks not only provide essential nutrients but also help keep you feeling satisfied.
5. Plan Ahead and Prepare
To ensure you have keto-friendly snacks readily available, it’s important to plan ahead and prepare. Take some time each week to plan and prepare your snacks in advance. This could involve pre-cutting vegetables, portioning out nuts or seeds, or making homemade keto-friendly snacks, such as fat bombs or protein bars. By having prepared snacks on hand, you’ll be less likely to reach for unhealthy options when hunger strikes.
By following these tips and choosing the right snacks, you can optimize your nutrition on a ketogenic diet and support your overall health and well-being. Remember to prioritize low-carb options, include healthy fats and protein, opt for whole foods, and plan ahead to ensure you have keto-friendly snacks readily available.
Planning Your Keto Snacks
Understand Keto-Friendly Foods
Before you start planning your snacks, it’s essential to have a good understanding of what foods are considered keto-friendly. The ketogenic diet focuses on consuming high amounts of healthy fats, moderate protein, and very low carbohydrates. Some examples of keto-friendly foods include avocados, nuts and seeds, full-fat dairy products, fatty fish, and low-carb vegetables.
Identify Your Snack Preferences
Everyone has different snack preferences, so it’s important to identify the types of snacks you enjoy the most. Whether you prefer sweet or savory snacks, there are plenty of keto-friendly options available. Consider your taste preferences and make a list of potential snack ideas that align with your preferences.
Research Keto Snack Recipes
Once you have identified your snack preferences, it’s time to research keto snack recipes. There are countless resources available online that provide delicious and creative keto snack ideas. Look for recipes that use keto-friendly ingredients and fit within your dietary goals. Experiment with different recipes to find snacks that you truly enjoy.
Prepare Snacks in Advance
To ensure you always have keto-friendly snacks on hand, it’s helpful to prepare them in advance. Dedicate some time each week to meal prepping your snacks. This could involve baking keto-friendly cookies, making homemade trail mix, or portioning out servings of cheese and nuts. By having your snacks prepared and easily accessible, you’ll be less likely to reach for unhealthy alternatives.
Keep Snacks Portable
One of the challenges of following a ketogenic diet is finding snacks that are easy to take on the go. To overcome this, focus on snacks that are portable and require minimal preparation. Some examples include hard-boiled eggs, beef jerky, pre-cut vegetables with dip, and individual servings of nut butter. Having portable snacks readily available will help you stay on track with your keto lifestyle, even when you’re busy or traveling.
By following these steps, you can effectively plan your keto snacks and ensure they align with your dietary goals. Remember to always prioritize whole, unprocessed foods and listen to your body’s hunger cues. With a little bit of planning and preparation, you can enjoy delicious and satisfying keto snacks that support your overall health and well-being.
Choosing the Right Snacks for a Ketogenic Diet
1. Opt for Whole Foods
When it comes to snacks, it’s best to choose whole foods that are minimally processed. This means avoiding packaged snacks that are high in added sugars, refined grains, and unhealthy fats. Instead, opt for snacks that are made from real, whole ingredients such as nuts, seeds, avocados, and cheese.
2. Include Healthy Fats
Since the ketogenic diet is high in fat, it’s important to include healthy fats in your snacks. These fats can help keep you feeling full and satisfied, while also providing you with a steady source of energy. Some examples of healthy fats to include in your snacks are nuts and nut butters, avocados, olives, and coconut oil.
3. Watch Your Carbohydrate Intake
One of the key principles of the ketogenic diet is to limit your carbohydrate intake. This means that you should choose snacks that are low in carbohydrates. Some good options include vegetables, such as celery sticks or cucumber slices, as well as low-carb fruits like berries. You can also enjoy snacks that are made from low-carb ingredients, such as almond flour or coconut flour.
4. Consider Protein
While the focus of the ketogenic diet is on fats, it’s still important to include an adequate amount of protein in your snacks. Protein can help keep you feeling full and satisfied, while also supporting muscle growth and repair. Some good sources of protein for snacks include hard-boiled eggs, Greek yogurt, and jerky made from lean meats.
5. Plan Ahead
To ensure that you have healthy snacks on hand, it’s important to plan ahead. Take some time each week to prepare and portion out your snacks so that they’re ready to grab and go when you need them. This can help prevent you from reaching for unhealthy options when you’re hungry and pressed for time.
By choosing the right snacks for a ketogenic diet, you can maximize your performance and fat loss while staying satisfied and energized throughout the day. Remember to opt for whole foods, include healthy fats, watch your carbohydrate intake, consider protein, and plan ahead to set yourself up for success on your ketogenic journey.
Finding Keto-Friendly Snacks
-
Read Labels: When shopping for snacks, it’s important to carefully read the nutrition labels to determine the carbohydrate content. Look for snacks that are low in net carbs, which is calculated by subtracting the fiber content from the total carbohydrates.
-
Focus on Whole Foods: Instead of relying on processed snacks, try to incorporate more whole foods into your diet. Snacking on foods like nuts, seeds, avocados, and olives can provide a good source of healthy fats and keep you feeling satisfied.
-
Prepare in Advance: To ensure you always have keto-friendly snacks on hand, take some time to prepare them in advance. This could involve making a batch of homemade keto granola, baking keto-friendly cookies, or portioning out individual servings of nuts and seeds.
-
Get Creative with Vegetables: Vegetables can be a great option for keto snacks, as they are low in carbs and high in fiber. Experiment with different ways of preparing vegetables, such as roasting them with olive oil and spices or making zucchini chips.
-
Consider Keto-Friendly Bars: While it’s important to prioritize whole foods, there are also some keto-friendly bars available that can be a convenient option for on-the-go snacking. Look for bars that are low in net carbs and made with natural ingredients.
Reference Tables: Keto Snacks with Healthy Fats
| Snack | Description |
|---|---|
| Avocado | Rich in healthy fats, fiber, and vitamins, avocados make a satisfying snack. |
| Nuts and Seeds | Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds are excellent sources of fats. |
| Olives | These briny treats are packed with monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. |
| Cheese | Enjoy a variety of cheese options like cheddar, mozzarella, or goat cheese. |
| Nut Butter | Peanut butter, almond butter, or sunflower seed butter are great choices. |
| Coconut Chips | These crispy chips provide a delicious source of healthy fats and fiber. |
Low-Carb Keto Snacks
| Snack | Description |
|---|---|
| Hard-Boiled Eggs | A convenient and protein-rich snack that can be prepared in advance. |
| Beef Jerky | Look for sugar-free options to enjoy this high-protein and low-carb snack. |
| Pork Rinds | These crunchy snacks are carb-free and can be enjoyed in moderation. |
| Celery Sticks | Pair them with cream cheese or almond butter for a satisfying crunch. |
| Cucumber Slices | Low in carbs and refreshing, cucumbers make a great snack on a hot day. |
| Zucchini Chips | Thinly sliced and baked zucchini chips can be a tasty low-carb alternative. |
Keto-Friendly Sweet Snacks
| Snack | Description |
|---|---|
| Dark Chocolate | Opt for dark chocolate with a high cocoa content and minimal added sugars. |
| Berries | Enjoy a handful of raspberries, blackberries, or strawberries in moderation. |
| Keto Fat Bombs | These homemade treats are packed with healthy fats and come in various flavors. |
| Coconut Macaroons | Made with shredded coconut and natural sweeteners, these are a keto-friendly delight. |
| Chia Pudding | A creamy and satisfying snack made with chia seeds, coconut milk, and sweeteners. |
| Keto Ice Cream | Look for low-carb ice cream options made with natural sweeteners like stevia. |
Quick and Easy Keto Snacks
| Snack | Description |
|---|---|
| String Cheese | A convenient and portable snack that provides protein and calcium. |
| Deli Meat Roll-Ups | Wrap slices of deli meat around cheese or avocado for a quick snack. |
| Greek Yogurt | Opt for full-fat, unsweetened Greek yogurt and add your choice of toppings. |
| Seaweed Snacks | These crispy and low-calorie snacks are a great source of minerals. |
| Cottage Cheese | Enjoy cottage cheese with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few berries on top. |
| Veggie Sticks | Carrot, celery, and bell pepper sticks are perfect for dipping in keto-friendly sauces. |
Keto Snacks for On-the-Go
| Snack | Description |
|---|---|
| Beef or Turkey Jerky | A portable and protein-packed snack that can be enjoyed anywhere. |
| Almond Butter Packets | Convenient single-serve packets of almond butter for a quick energy boost. |
| Cheese Crisps | These crunchy snacks are made from baked cheese and are perfect for on-the-go. |
| Hard Cheese Cubes | Pre-cut cubes of hard cheese like Parmesan or Gouda are easy to snack on. |
| Pork or Chicken Skewers | Grilled skewers provide a tasty and portable source of protein. |
| Nut and Seed Bars | Look for low-carb and sugar-free options to satisfy your hunger on the go. |
Keto Snacks for Sweet Tooth Cravings
| Snack | Description |
|---|---|
| Keto Chocolate Mug Cake | A quick and easy dessert made with almond flour, cocoa powder, and sweeteners. |
| Peanut Butter Fat Bombs | These sweet treats are perfect for satisfying your cravings without the guilt. |
| Keto Cheesecake Cups | Enjoy a mini cheesecake cup made with cream cheese, almond flour, and sweeteners. |
| Chocolate Avocado Pudding | A creamy and indulgent dessert made with ripe avocados and cocoa powder. |
| Keto Brownie Bites | Bite-sized brownies made with almond flour, cocoa powder, and sugar substitutes. |
| Coconut Flour Pancakes | These fluffy pancakes made with coconut flour can be enjoyed as a sweet snack. |
What snacks can I have while in keto?
While on a keto diet, you can enjoy a variety of snacks that are low in carbs and high in healthy fats. Some options include nuts and seeds, such as almonds and chia seeds, cheese and deli meats, avocado slices, and hard-boiled eggs. These snacks will keep you satisfied and support your keto lifestyle.
What junk food can I eat on keto?
Although traditional junk food is typically high in carbs, there are keto-friendly alternatives available. You can indulge in snacks like pork rinds, kale chips, or homemade cheese crisps. These options provide a satisfying crunch without derailing your keto progress. Remember to check the nutrition labels to ensure they fit within your daily carb limit.
Can I eat popcorn during keto?
Popcorn is generally not recommended on a keto diet due to its high carbohydrate content. However, there are low-carb alternatives available, such as cauliflower popcorn or cheese popcorn made with keto-friendly ingredients. These options allow you to enjoy a popcorn-like snack while staying in ketosis.
What snack foods have no carbs?
Several snack foods have little to no carbs, making them ideal for a keto diet. Some examples include celery sticks with cream cheese or almond butter, cucumber slices with guacamole, and beef jerky. These snacks provide a satisfying crunch and are packed with flavor, all while keeping your carb intake minimal.
FAQ
What is the ketogenic diet?
The ketogenic diet is a low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet that aims to shift the body’s metabolism into a state of ketosis. In ketosis, the body primarily uses fat for fuel instead of carbohydrates.
How does the ketogenic diet work?
By significantly reducing carbohydrate intake and increasing fat consumption, the ketogenic diet forces the body to rely on fat for energy. This leads to the production of ketones, which are molecules that serve as an alternative fuel source for the brain and body.
What are the potential benefits of the ketogenic diet?
The ketogenic diet has been associated with weight loss, improved blood sugar control, increased energy levels, and enhanced mental clarity. It may also have potential benefits for certain medical conditions, such as epilepsy and neurodegenerative diseases.
Are there any risks or side effects of the ketogenic diet?
Some individuals may experience initial side effects, commonly known as the "keto flu," which can include fatigue, headache, and nausea. Additionally, the diet may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with certain medical conditions or on certain medications. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting the ketogenic diet.
What foods should I eat on a ketogenic diet?
A ketogenic diet typically includes foods high in healthy fats, such as avocados, nuts and seeds, olive oil, and fatty fish. It also includes moderate amounts of protein from sources like meat, poultry, and eggs, and low-carbohydrate vegetables like leafy greens and cruciferous vegetables.
Can I have snacks on a ketogenic diet?
Yes, there are plenty of keto-friendly snack options available. Some examples include nuts and seeds, cheese, olives, hard-boiled eggs, and low-carb vegetables with dip. It’s important to choose snacks that are low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats.
How often should I eat on a ketogenic diet?
The frequency of meals on a ketogenic diet can vary depending on individual preferences and goals. Some people find success with three meals a day, while others prefer to incorporate intermittent fasting or have smaller, more frequent meals. It’s important to listen to your body’s hunger and fullness cues.
Can I drink alcohol on a ketogenic diet?
Alcohol can be consumed in moderation on a ketogenic diet, but it’s important to choose low-carbohydrate options. Spirits like vodka, gin, and tequila are generally low in carbs, while beer and sweetened cocktails should be avoided due to their higher carbohydrate content.
How long does it take to enter ketosis?
The time it takes to enter ketosis can vary from person to person. Generally, it takes about 2-7 days of following a strict low-carbohydrate diet to enter ketosis. Regular monitoring of blood ketone levels can help determine if you are in ketosis.
Can I exercise while on a ketogenic diet?
Yes, exercise can be incorporated into a ketogenic lifestyle. However, it’s important to note that during the initial adaptation phase, some individuals may experience a decrease in exercise performance. As the body becomes more efficient at using fat for fuel, exercise performance typically improves. It’s important to stay hydrated and listen to your body’s signals during exercise.
Citations
- 30 Delicious and Healthy Keto Snacks
- Keto Snacks ” A Visual Guide to the Best and the Worst
- 40 Keto Snack Recipes That'll Kick The Munchies To …
- 52 Keto Snack Recipes You'll Make Again And Again
- The best keto-friendly snacks
- 50+ Easy Low Carb Keto Snacks: Ideas & Recipes
- 70+ Easy Lazy Keto Snacks (For Beginners)
- Best Keto Snacks 2023