While on a low-carb diet, you should avoid foods like grains, cereals and bread as well as foods containing sugar. It may seem that your choices are quite limited, but many foods possess these qualities. You should make informed choices to keep your cholesterol in check and maintain heart health.
Fish
Most fish and shellfish contain no carbs or sugar. Oysters and mussels are an exception as they do contain some carbohydrates. Read labels when purchasing smoked fish, especially salmon, as the meat may have been cured with sugar, honey or maple syrup which will add carbohydrates and sugars.
Meats
Poultry, beef, pork, lamb and game meats contain no carbohydrates or sugars. If you order meats in restaurants, make sure they come with no added marinades or sauces which may contain sugar and carbohydrates. Cured meats such as honey ham, sausage and hot dogs also may contain sugars and carbohydrates.
Fats
Oils, margarine and butter are carbohydrate- and sugar-free. Choose unsaturated plant oils such as safflower and olive when possible as these do not contribute to higher cholesterol levels, the American Heart Association reports. Stick to margarine made without trans fats, which can raise your bad cholesterol levels and lower your good. Use butter sparingly due to its saturated fat content.
Eggs
One egg contains 75 calories, no sugar and virtually no carbs. Use egg whites if you have been directed by your doctor to limit cholesterol intake.
Watery Vegetables
While starchy vegetables such as peas, corn and carrots contain some carbohydrates and sugars, many watery vegetables contain very few carbohydrates and no sugar. A cup of cucumber contains just 3 grams of carbohydrates and no sugar. Leafy greens such as romaine lettuce, arugula, escarole and endive also are good choices. Complement salads with alfalfa sprouts, chives or chicory. Use a squeeze of lemon or lime juice with a bit of olive oil as your dressing to limit sugar and carbohydrates.
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