How to Cut Carbohydrates Naturally

Cutting Carbs

There are many of us who find that cutting back on carbs helps us lose weight, maintain our blood sugar levels and feel healthier. A variety of diets recommend conflicting amounts of carbs per meal, or per day. To adopt a simple approach that will help you select foods naturally low in carbs, follow the steps listed below.

Instructions

1. MEAT
   Meat, poultry, fish and shellfish are high in protein and have little or no carbs. Avoid breading.

2. VEGETABLES
   Veggies make up the bulk of a low carb eater's diet. They provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The carbohydrate content of vegetables varies, but non-starchy, brightly colored vegetables are usually low. Starchy vegetables like potatoes, beets, carrots, and sweet potatoes should be eaten sparingly as additions to soups and stews.

3. FRUIT
   Because fruit is high in fiber, which is subtracted from carbs to get a "net carb" number, it is okay to eat them in moderation.

4. For cheese and dairy check packages to determine carbs. Yogurt, cottage cheese and ricotta can be pretty high. Eggs are an easy, healthy way to meet protein needs, but try to use more whites than yolks, which are high in cholesterol.

5. NUTS AND SEEDS
   These are usually low carb and contain "good" fats.

6. BREADS AND GRAINS
   Select whole grain and low carb varieties. Avoid all white, processed flour.

7. SOY
   Soy products are usually low in carbs and high in protein but there is a range so check the package.

8. BEVERAGES
   Stick with water, sparkling water, tea or coffee, and remember that one of the easiest ways to cut carbs is to refuse to take in calories in liquid form. That means no sodas, sweetened teas, sports drinks, beer, or juices.