The theory behind low-carbohydrate diets is that, in the absence of carbohydrates, the body will begin converting fat into glucose for energy. Northwestern University notes that the dieter's body also enters a fat-burning state known as "ketosis." During ketosis, the body's produces "ketones" which serve as natural appetite suppressants--further expediting the weight loss process. You can still snack while adhering to these diet plans provided you select products that are low in carbohydrates.
Raw Vegetables and Ranch Dressing
Although not all vegetables are low in carbohydrates, cauliflower, broccoli, celery, mushrooms and cucumbers all contain 2 g of carbohydrates or less per serving. Cooking vegetables destroys some of the vitamins they contain. Thus, snack on raw vegetables to ensure that you glean the greatest amount of nutritional benefit.
Regular ranch dressing lacks any carbohydrates. It makes a tangy dip for your raw vegetables that doesn't slow your weight loss. You can also make your own ranch dressing at home using ranch mix. Substitute sour cream for mayonnaise to reduce the carbohydrate content of homemade salad dressing.
Boiled Egg
The Egg Nutrition Center notes that a large egg contains less than 1 g of carbohydrates--making it an ideal snack food that fits comfortably within your weight loss program. You can easily pack up a boiled egg and take it with you for a snack at work or make several boiled eggs at once and refrigerate them for later.
Eggs aren't only low in carbohydrates--they're beneficial to your health. Each egg contains protein, calcium, potassium, zinc, iron and numerous vitamins such as vitamin A, D, E, B6 and B12.
Reduced-Calorie Gelatin
You can purchase gelatin either pre-made in single-serve cups or take home the dry mix and whip up a dish of this guilt-free snack food at home. A serving of reduced-calorie gelatin contains no fat and few carbohydrates--making it ideal for quelling hunger between meals while you're limiting your carbohydrate intake.The per serving carbohydrate content of reduced-calorie gelatin varies from less than 1 g per serving to 5.1 g, depending on the brand. Add 1 tbsp.of whipped topping for additional flavor, but opt for standard whipped toppings rather than the light varieties. Light whipped toppings typically contain more carbohydrates than their full-calorie counterparts.
Cheese and Crackers
Don't think that just because you're reducing your carbohydrate intake that you can't enjoy crackers. Numerous snack food manufactures have risen to the occasion and produce crackers that you can enjoy without blowing your diet. Top your crackers with sliced cheddar cheese, which contains no carbohydrates, or cream cheese which contains a mere 3 g carbohydrates per serving. Be careful not to eat more than one serving of crackers, however. Even low-carbohydrate crackers can become a carbohydrate-riddled diet disaster if not eaten in moderation.
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