Vegan Low-Carb Foods

Carbohydrates are your body's main source of energy and are classified as either complex or simple. The classification is based on the food's chemical makeup and how quickly your body digests and absorbs it, according to MedlinePlus, a website of the National Institutes of Health. Vegans and vegetarians rely too much on refined carbohydrates from sources such as white pasta and white rice, states FoodsforLife.org. Eating low-carb foods can keep your carbohydrate intake at a healthy level.

Soy

Soy-based foods are common ingredients in the vegan diet, except with vegans who have an allergy to soy. Soy is considered as good a source of protein as animal foods and can help lower cholesterol, states MedlinePlus. It's also low in carbohydrates. One ounce of tofu has just 0.5 g of carbohydrate and 1 cup of plain soy milk has 1g, according to "The 30-Day Low-Carbohydrate Diet Solution." Tempeh, is higher in its carbohydrate content, so eat only moderate amounts of it if you're trying to reduce carbs.

Fruits

Every healthy diet should include fruits. Fruits are filled with fiber, which aids digestion, increases nutrient absorption and helps you feel fuller for longer, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians' website, FamilyDoctor.org. The carbohydrate content in these foods comes from the simple sugars they contain, but you can still find some that are a little lighter in their carb content. Berries, cherries, apples, grapefruit, apricots and figs are good low-carb choices, according to Mark Sisson, author of "The Primal Blueprint." One medium apricot contains 6g of carbs and 10 cherries contain 10g. Eat between 2 and 2 ½ cups of fruits each day and you'll keep your carbohydrate intake in check.

Vegetables

Green, leafy vegetables and other non-starchy vegetables are packed with nutrients, but low on carbohydrates. Vegetables are rich sources of fiber and nutrients, but the starchier varieties, such as white potatoes, root vegetables, peas and corn have high carbohydrate content. Vegetables such as spinach, lettuce, broccoli, zucchini and green beans are low-carb offerings. A 1/2 cup of shredded romaine lettuce contains 0.5g of carbohydrates and one medium celery stalk has just 1.5g. Eat about 2 ½ cups of vegetables each day. The Vegan Society points out that low-carbohydrate fruits and vegetables may not provide enough calories for children.