Low-carb foods get a mix of good and bad press. The debate stems from the low-carb diet where all you eat is low-carb foods. This may lead to fast weight loss, but it can also lead to further complications. A low-carb diet can be high in saturated fat and cholesterol, and increase your risk for heart disease, according to MayoClinic.com. Choose your carbs wisely if you decide to go on a carb-restricted diet.
Poultry
Chicken and turkey are two types of low-carb, high-protein poultry. They are also high in iron. The healthiest part of the birds is the white meat. In contrast to the dark meat, it is low in saturated fat. The minute you put breading or sweet sauces on these, the carb content will increase.
Game Meats
Game meats are low in saturated fat and low carbs, but they are high in protein. Venison, bison, elk, moose, rabbit and pheasant are examples.
Beef
All forms of beef have few, if any, carbs. They are also high in protein, iron and fat. The healthiest choices are bottom round, top loin, flank steak, eye round, tenderloin and tri-tip roast. If you want ground beef, look for 95 percent fat free or higher on the packaging.
Nuts
Nuts are high in unsaturated fat, the healthy type. They are also low in carbs, high in protein and high in fiber. All forms of nuts have these same characteristics as long as they are not sugared or covered with honey. This would increase the carb content. Almonds, pistachios, macadamias, pecans, Brazil nuts, walnuts and cashews are examples. Any of these nuts that are in the form of a butter would also be low in carbs.
Seeds
Seeds are similar to nuts in that they are low in carbs and high in protein, fiber and healthy fats. Pumpkin seeds, flax seeds, hemp seeds, sunflower seeds and sesame seeds are examples.
Dairy
Regular products are high in calcium and protein and low in carbs, but they are also high in saturated fat. The low-fat and fat-free versions are healthier options. Yogurt, milk, cheese, cottage cheese and sour cream are all dairy products that come in reduced-fat varieties.
Vegetables
With the exception of potatoes, yams, corn and sweet potatoes, all vegetables are low in carbs. They are also low in fat, high in fiber and high in water content. Cucumbers, broccoli, celery, all forms of greens, tomatoes, cauliflower, peppers, mushrooms and onions are examples.
Eggs
Whole eggs, egg whites and egg substitutes are high in protein and B vitamins. They are also extremely low in carbs.
Fish
Fish and shellfish are high in protein, low in carbs and, with the exception of cold water fish, they are also low in fat. Cold water fish like salmon, halibut, herring and albacore tuna are high in omega-3 fats, which are heart healthy. Clams, lobster, shrimp, mussels and calamari are types of shellfish.
Member Comments