1. Follow Your Phase
The Atkins low carb diet has several phases to follow. Foods that are allowed are based on the phase you are in. Check the list of allowed foods on the carbohydrate counter to determine what type of appetizers will work for your phase. The most restrictive phase of the Atkins diet is the initial Induction Phase, with only 20 grams of carbohydrates allowed per day--15 of which must be from salad greens. The Induction Phase is probably the only phase that will be difficult when making appetizers. Two good vegetables that will make good appetizers for the Induction Phase include asparagus and mushrooms. Celery that's stuffed with peanut butter or cream cheese is also a good appetizer. Any meat appetizer like chicken wings or meatballs will work on any phase of the Atkins diet. Use the carbohydrate counter for the Atkins diet to become familiar with the carb content of your favorite vegetables, it's free online. Choose the ingredients for your appetizers carefully and take your time making them.
2. When You're out and About
Dining out is much easier on the Atkins low carb diet if you are prepared. Become familiar with the carbohydrate content of your favorite foods before dining out; print out a list and take it with you if necessary. Choose appetizers that you know are low in carbohydrate content, such as meats, proteins and cheeses. Avoid appetizers that have rice, noodles, potatoes or dumplings; all foods that are high in carbohydrates. Beware of hidden carbohydrates in sauces or dips that accompany appetizers; they may contain sugar, honey or brown sugar. Dipping sauces, including those for vegetables, may contain flour or corn starch, which are used as thickeners. Other sources of hidden carbohydrates include the condiments on the table, like ketchup or duck sauce.
3. Buying Prepared Appetizers
Buying prepared appetizers is probably your best bet if you have just started on the Atkins low carb diet. Make a copy of the allowed carbohydrates in the Induction Phase, post one on your refrigerator and keep one on you. Because all meats and meat by-products are allowed on any phase of the diet, choose your appetizer based on the carbohydrates allowed in your phase. Do not be tempted to choose appetizers for your guests, make sure whatever you choose is on the allowed list of foods. You won't be tempted to cheat and your guests will never know.
Member Comments