Required for the body to function correctly, carbohydrates are the fibers, sugars, and starches found in fruits, vegetables, milk products, and grains. An essential part of a healthy, balanced diet, carbohydrates act as a source of energy for your body. However, if the body does not utilize the carbohydrates from your food for energy, it can be converted to fat. While carbohydrates are an essential piece of the nutritional puzzle, following a low-carb diet may help you successfully lose weight and stabilize your blood sugar. When you are following a low-carb diet, you can eat when you are hungry and until you are satisfied, with no need to weigh your food or spend the time counting calories. However, knowing which low-carb foods to eat can be tricky for some.
When a person is on a low-carb diet, the number of carbohydrates that a person eats will be limited, and their diet will focus mainly on vegetables, healthy fats, and protein. However, many find following a low-carb diet to be challenging, especially if they aren’t sure on what they can eat. Luckily, checking out this helpful list of low-carb foods can help you keep your diet on track.
Meat: You can eat the fat and the skin of any type of meat, such as poultry, lamb, beef, pork, bison, game, etc. For best results, choose organic, grass-fed meats.
Vegetables: When following the low-carb diet you can eat vegetables that grow above ground, such as tomatoes, kale, broccoli, bok choy, asparagus, onions, peppers, leafy greens, spinach, Brussels sprouts, avocado, etc.
Eggs: Considered to be a perfect protein, eating eggs on a low-carb diet is acceptable. If possible, choose organics eggs.
Seafood: While you want to avoid fish that is breaded, herring, salmon, sardines, and mackerel are all great options due to their high levels of omega-3 fatty acids. However, seafood of all kinds is acceptable to eat on a low-carb diet.
Healthy, Natural Fats: Consuming healthy fats, such as olive oil, coconut oil, cream, and butter can help you feel more satiated.
Dairy Products: Consuming plain Greek yogurt, sour cream, plain whole milk, high-fat cheeses can help keep you satisfied on a low-carb diet.
Remember, before following a strict low-carb diet, check with your primary care physician before you make any relevant lifestyle changes.