Ideally, carbohydrates should make up about 45 to 65 percent of your daily diet. Carbohydrates are vital for energy and help your central nervous system, brain, kidneys and muscles function properly, according to the McKinley Health Center at the University of Illinois. However, overeating carbohydrates leads to weight gain, so making wise low-carb choices will help you maintain your weight and improve your overall health.
Green Tea
Not only is green tea low in calories---6 fl oz. without sugar contain less than 1g of carbs---it can also help you lose weight. Green tea is made from unfermented tea leaves and is one of the richest sources of antioxidant polyphenols called catechins. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, catechins have fat-burning properties and green tea can promote and maintain weight loss.
Egg Whites
Eating egg whites doesn't just cut your cholesterol intake, it also helps you meet your carb-reduction goal. One large, raw egg white contains 0.24g of carbs. Try substituting them for whole eggs. You can also use just egg whites to bake by substituting two egg whites for one egg.
Fish
A wide variety of fish make the list of the recommended foods for the Body Fat Solution weight loss plan devised by Tom Venuto, a nutrition researcher and fat-loss expert. Whether your favorite is bass, cod, halibut, salmon or tilapia, they all contain zero carbs, according to Venuto. The American Dietetic Association recommends eating fish at least twice a week. However, if you're pregnant, speak to your doctor before increasing your fish intake so you don't become exposed to mercury.
Italian Dressing - Reduced Fat
Salads don't have to be bland when you're trying to lose weight. Drizzle on some reduced fat Italian dressing. According to the USDA, 1 tbsp. contains just 0.69g of carbohydrates. By comparison, 1 tbsp. of French dressing contains 4.77g of carbs. Made with olive oil, vinegar and herbs, Italian dressing is a good low-carb alternative to creamy dressings.
Spirulina
This blue-green algae is a nutritional powerhouse, containing high levels of protein, vitamins, minerals and the essential fatty acid gamma linolenic acid, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. It's also very low in carbohydrates---1 tbsp. contains just 0.22g. Spirulina is available as pills, a powder or flakes.
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