Diets like Atkins and other high-protein diets are low in carbs. Atkins in particular allows only 20 grams of carbs per day during the first two weeks, known as the induction phase. While these diets are sometimes considered no-carb diets, they do contain some carbohydrates. If you want to switch to a completely carb-free diet, you will need to make some dramatic changes to the way you eat.
Step 1
Try a very low-carb program for at least a week to allow your body to get used to the change. According to the official Atkins website, when you cut down on carbs, you might experience dizziness, fatigue, constipation and headaches. By maintaining a few carbs in your diet for a few days you'll give your body time to deal with the transition.
Step 2
Choose your drinks carefully. Diet soda, seltzer water and unsweetened teas and coffee all contain zero carbs. Some low-carb diets recommend avoiding caffeine, but this varies from diet to diet. Certain alcoholic drinks like vodka, gin and whiskey contain no carbs either, according to AskMen.com. Drink at least eight glasses of water a day to remain hydrated and avoid bowel issues.
Step 3
Eat lots of vegetables that contain close to zero carbs. Vegetables containing 0.2 or less grams of carbs per serving include iceberg lettuce, romaine lettuce, chives, endive, escarole and arugula.
Step 4
Add variety with cheese. Milk and yogurt contain carbs, but some types of cheese contain just over zero grams. According to Atkins.com, cheddar cheese contains zero carbs. Parmessan cheese has only 0.2 grams of carbs per ounce, and sheep and goat cheese contain 0.3 grams of carbs per ounce.
Step 5
Stick to unprocessed meats. Sausages, ham and other processed meats might contain carbs in the form of added sugars, depending on the brand. Fresh fish, chicken, beef, turkey and pork all contain zero carbs. Grill, bake or poach your meat but don't fry, so you don't add unnecessary calories.
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