Low-carbohydrate diets are a popular weight-loss choice, and they range from low-carb, high-fat plans to low-carb, low-fat plans. Some people find that these diets reduce food cravings and improve weight loss. Finding foods that are easy to fix, healthful and appropriate for a low-carb diet--especially if you do not enjoy cooking--may be discouraging. Try these simple, healthy and convenient low-carb meals to fit into your busy life.
Types
The meals you choose may depend upon the type of low-carb diet you prefer. Popular low-carb diets include Atkins and South Beach. True low-carb diets may eliminate fruits and grains, while limiting vegetables. These diets typically allow a higher amount of fat, including bacon, cheese and heavy cream. Low-carb, low-fat diets include healthy fats, ample amounts of vegetables and some fruits and whole grains. Evidence shows that low-carbohydrate diets may be as successful as traditional low-fat diets, reports the Harvard Health Letter.
Components
On a low-carb diet, meals typically consist of protein and vegetables. You can adapt this basic formula to either a lower-fat or higher-fat diet plan, depending upon your preferences. Protein options include eggs, soy products and all sorts of meat; however, you should choose protein sources that fit within fat guidelines for your diet. Include plenty of low-carb vegetables in your meals, including greens, broccoli, cabbage, eggplant and peppers.
On the Go
If you need to eat on the go, preparation is key. Bake eggs, cheese, Canadian bacon and vegetables together in muffin cups for an easy crustless quiche for breakfast. Pack a salad with thinly sliced steak or chicken breast for lunch or wrap meat and cheese in large lettuce leaves. Nuts or string cheese are ideal low-carb snacks to keep on hand for in between meals or if you can't find an appropriate meal option when you're out.
Restaurants
Finding low-carb meals in restaurants is easier than you might think. Try grilled meats and vegetables cooked with olive oil and fresh herbs or a salad dressed with vinegar and olive oil. Depending upon the diet you choose, chicken wings with blue cheese dip, whole-grain sandwiches and soups may be restaurant options. Keep in mind that sugar and white flour are not an option on low-carb diets.
Other Options
There are easy options available for home-cooked low-carb meals. Take advantage of an outdoor or indoor grill to cook meats and vegetables, suggests the Food Network, or roast vegetables in the oven by drizzling with a bit of olive oil and cooking at a high temperature. If your diet allows it, round out your meal with small servings of whole-grain bread, whole-wheat couscous, whole-wheat pasta or brown rice.
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