I follow a ketogenic diet.
keh-to-JEH-nee-kah — five syllables, stress on third. The 'ch' is hard 'k' before 'e'.
Use in health-focused restaurants or when explaining why you're avoiding pasta, bread, and pizza. Keto is increasingly understood in Italy, especially in cities.
Chetogenica is the Italian adjective for 'ketogenic'. This diet restricts carbohydrates, which is challenging in Italy given the centrality of pasta, pizza, and bread. Protein and fat-rich dishes — grilled meats, cheeses, eggs — are the focus.
Evito i carboidrati.
I avoid carbohydrates.
Simpler phrasing that most waitstaff will understand.
Niente pasta, pane o riso.
No pasta, bread, or rice.
Practical list for the kitchen.
Posso avere il secondo senza contorno di pasta?
Can I have the main course without the pasta side?
Specific swap request.
Italy's 'secondo piatto' (main course) tradition — grilled meats, fish, and roasted vegetables — is naturally keto-friendly. The challenge is resisting the 'primo piatto' (pasta or risotto), which is the structural heart of an Italian meal.