Following a low-carb food plan can seem daunting, but cutting carbs does not mean you cannot enjoy a range of healthful foods. There are naturally low-carb fruits, vegetables and protein sources that you can incorporate into your eating plan to give you maximum nutrition and flavor without excess carbs. The low-carb foods on this list have also been selected for economy, versatility and variety. They are staple foods that you can enjoy in a variety of recipes.
Spinach
For a low-carb food, spinach is high in nutrients. It is an excellent vegetable source of calcium, and is also high in iron and vitamins A and C, according to the "I Love Spinach" cookbook by Burgundy L. Olivier. For the lowest carb intake choose frozen spinach, which has 2 g carb per 85 g serving, or canned spinach which has just 4 g per 85 g serving.
Cucumber
Cucumbers are versatile and available year-round in most areas. According to World's Healthiest Foods they have just 3 g of carbohydrate per 100 g serving. A serving additionally provides vitamins C and A, and minerals including potassium and magnesium. Their high water content helps you feel full and aids hydration.
Tuna
According to the National Marine Fisheries Service, tuna is high in protein and a 100 g serving contains 0 g of carbohydrates. It is also low in fat and is a source of minerals such as selenium and calcium. Canned tuna is a budget protein source, too, and you can add it to salads, baked potatoes or casseroles.
Grapefruit
Grapefruit is an exception to the rule that most fruit is high in carbohydrates. A 100 g serving of grapefruit has just 8 g of carbohydrate and is approximately 90 percent water, according to Holistic Online. Not only is grapefruit low in calories and carbohydrates, it is rich in vitamin C, potassium and antioxidants.
Celery
Raw celery is a negative calorie food, according to Natural Environment -- that means you burn more calories chewing and digesting it than it contains. A 65 g serving of celery, which is about half a cup of raw celery, has just 1.5 g of carbohydrate. Celery is also inexpensive and is a good way to bulk up salads, soups and casseroles.
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