Carbohydrate-free and restricted diets such as the Atkins, Southbeach and Zone diets have gained popularity through the successful tactics that have aided many in their weight-loss efforts. Following such plans can help individuals eliminate sugary, starchy foods that hinder weight loss. Preparing your own meals, educating yourself about carbohydrate-free foods and arming yourself with snacks that fit the diet will help you reach your weight-loss goals.
Eggs
Eggs are typically thought of as a breakfast food, as they are a delicious part of the breakfast plate. According to the Mayo Clinic, breakfast gives you a chance to start the day with a healthy, nutritious meal and also lays a foundation for lifelong health benefits like better concentration, productivity and weight control. Eggs are an example of a low-fat protein food and can be chopped on salads, hard boiled, fried or scrambled.
Chicken, Fish, Steak and Nuts
Meat, fish and nuts are good sources of protein and absent of, or low in, carbohydrates. Meats can be grilled, cooked in olive oil, butter or chicken broth. Nuts can be sprinkled on salads or eaten as a snack. According to the Mayo Clinic, some protein is essential to human life and can be found in your bones, skin, muscles, hormones, blood and enzymes. And though some meats and nuts are considered fatty, researchers at Purdue University have found that adding almonds to a calorie-controlled eating plan can assist in weight loss, according to the American Dietetic Association.
Dairy
Some dairy products contain little or no carbohydrates. Sugar-laden yogurts and ice cream are high in carbohydrates and should not be eaten when restricting carbs. Cheddar cheese, swiss chess, gouda and mozzarella are healthy cheeses that can be sprinkled on salads, added to lettuce wraps, or sliced and eaten solo. Cheese sticks are a smart snack that can be eaten on-the-go.
Vegetables
Certain vegetables are lower in carbohydrates and can be beneficial for those on a carb-free diet. Carrots, corn and beets represent higher-carbohydrate vegetables and are not recommended. Those vegetables contain starch that increases their carbohydrate value. Celery, cabbage, broccoli, alfalfa sprouts, asparagus, cauliflower, cucumber, tomato and zucchini are examples of low-carbohydrate vegetables.
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