Foods for Low Carb Diets

The biggest misconception about low carbohydrate diets is that you can only eat meat. Of course a diet of just protein would be unhealthy. A well-rounded low carbohydrate diet incorporates more options, including vegetables and fruits. These type of diets are not only good for weight loss but also for diabetics.

Vegetables

The largest portion of a low carb diet should be vegetables. Almost all vegetables are acceptable except for starchy ones such as beets, corn and potatoes. Choose a variety of colors to get all the antioxidant benefits.

Fruit

Some low carbohydrate diets don't allow fruits, at least in the starting phase of the diet. If you include fruits in your new diet, stick to the low sugar varieties such as berries, melons, lemons and limes.

Protein

Meat, fowl, fish and eggs are all good solid proteins for a low carb diet. They should be eaten plain with no breading.

Fats

A low carb diet does not mean low fat. However, you still need to eat the proper fats for good health. Stick to extra virgin olive oil and omega 3 fats while cutting out saturated and trans fats.

Dairy

Low carb yogurts are good choices for a low carbohydrate diet. Many yogurts contain a high sugar content, so read the package information. Many dairy products contain milk sugars, so they are too high in carbs for this type of diet. Make sure you get plenty of calcium-rich vegetables to make up for the lack of dairy in your diet.