According to the Glycemic Index Foundation, choosing a diet with low carbohydrate foods can dramatically affect blood glucose levels, insulin levels, the risk of heart disease, the risk of diabetes and the ability to sustain weight loss. However, the foundation is quick to point out that not all carbohydrates affect bodies adversely. You can supplement whole grain carbohydrates with a variety of low carb foods to create a healthful food plan.
Animal Proteins
According to MayoClinic.com's guide to low-carbohydrate diets, animal proteins form the core of many low-carbohydrate food plans. Many types of meat, but not all preparations of meat, have low carbohydrate content. Try grilled or baked turkey or chicken with the skin removed. In addition, poultry liver has low carbohydrates, but do not serve them breaded. Take note that processed, reduced fat and nonfat preparations of some meats may have higher carbohydrate content due to manufacturers adding fillers such as bread crumbs, high fructose corn syrup or sugar.
Fruits and Vegetables
According to the Harvard School of Public Health, non-starchy fruits and vegetables with high water content comprise the heart of a healthy daily diet. While potatoes and corn have carbohydrate content, most fruits and vegetables have low amounts of carbohydrates. The diabetes management website dLife's list of the 25 lowest-carb fruits and vegetables includes watermelon, arugula, strawberries, cucumbers, cantaloupe, broccoli, avocado, iceberg lettuce, honeydew melon, celery, peaches and mushrooms.
Low Carbohydrate Recipes
The Food Network's guide to low carbohydrate, healthy and light recipes includes several food ideas. Top broiled salmon with a tomato or balsamic vinegar sauce. Replace white rice with a side of coleslaw. Make a tomato gazpacho or a cool cucumber soup. Pair partial skim mozzarella with strawberries, blueberries or melon for an innovative salad. Grill trout in citrus juices or olive oil for a high-protein, low-carb entree. Make a frittata with eggs, mushrooms, Gorgonzola cheese, garlic and herbs. Pair poached eggs with spinach and crunchy vegetables with a dip made of ricotta or cottage cheese and spiked with herbs.
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