Discover Foods With Low Carbohydrates
Followers of the Atkins & South Beach diets are familiar with the term “low carbs” and “no carbs”. Those who participate in these types of diets seek out foods that are low in carbs and high in proteins. Foods like poultry, fish, eggs, and meats contain very low amounts and often no amounts of carbohydrates.
Meats that are processed are an exception to this rule, however, as they’re typically processed with sugar. Salad vegetables are also popular as no-carb or low-carb choices.
It is important to note that food containing white flour and sugar are not allowed in the low-carb diet. Most fruits are restricted, but some are allowed. The number of grams of carbohydrates allowed per day varies from person to person. Some might need 20 grams or less carbohydrate count per day in order to lose weight. Others may successfully lose weight on 50 or 60 grams per day.
The following is a list of no carbohydrate rich foods for you to make sure you’re following your diet plan. Keep in mind, however, that unless your doctor has specifically prescribed a no carb-diet for you, you should incorporate healthy carbs into your daily diet.
Meat: All meat is allowed (white or red) except liver. Don’t include filler or breading when cooking. Read label for carb info for those canned meat.
Seafood: Fish and Shellfish, but Oysters have some carbs.
Eggs: Eggs are allowed, in any way that you could prepare them.
Cheese: Cheese are allowed but with some restrictions, up to 4 oz per day.
Fat: Butter, mayonnaise, cream, margarine.
Vegetable: Low-starch green vegetables, though starchy vegetables like potatoes, carrots, peas, and corn are restricted.
Fruits: Avoid high glycemic fruits like watermelon, bananas, citrus fruits, pineapple etc.
Just because a product is labeled as “sugar-free” does not mean it is safe for diabetics or for those on that low-carb diet. Sugar-free cake mixes; snack cakes, and cookies especially must be avoided because, even though they may not technically contain sugar, the starch that’s in them will quickly convert to sugar before absorption into the bloodstream.
Also, the “no sugar added” items like ice cream, pies, and some candies may be loaded with sugar and carbs. The “no sugar added” label means only that the manufacturer did not add any extra sugar beyond what’s naturally present.
Water is also essential for your body’s health, and not only is it free, but it is carb free! Drinking at least 8 glasses of water per day will help your body with digestion and keep you hydrated.
Other items, like butter, oils, vegetable shortenings, tea, parsley, mustard, club soda, diet drinks, gin, rum, vodka, whiskey, and even some whipped cream have zero carbohydrates too. Remember to check with your doctor, however, before you switch to a low-carb or no-carb diet.