A List of Zero Carb Foods

Certain diets, like the Atkins Diet, focus on limiting your carbohydrate intake. However, according to Medical News Today, approximately 55 percent your calories should consist of carbohydrates. In fact, just about all foods contain some carbs, according to Understanding Nutrition. Focus on eating complex carbohydrates; they fill you up more and are derived from plant foods. Some foods with complex carbohydrates also do not have as many grams of carbohydrates as do simple carbohydrates. Simple carbohydrates consist of sugar and starch and typical have more carbohydrates.

Milk Products

A common misconception is that milk contains zero carbohydrates. Milk contains a sugar called lactose, and a serving has about 12 grams of carbs, according to Understanding Nutrition. However, cheeses like mozzarella, muenster, cheddar, Monterey jack, and fontina virtually have no carbohydrates. The only exception is cottage cheese, which, according to Understanding Nutrition, contains 6 grams of carbohydrate per serving.

Meats and Meat Alternatives

Meats and meat products do not contain carbohydrates, except for processed varieties such as packaged deli meat. Grill or bake meats, to reduce the fat content. Legumes and nuts contain fiber, but their starch content may wreak havoc on a low-carb diet, as they contain about 15 grams per serving.

Vegetables

Vegetables contain fiber, but some varieties contain starch as well. Non-starchy vegetables contain the least amount of carbohydrates, about 5 grams per serving, according to Understanding Nutrition. Opt for non-starchy vegetables like leafy greens, squash, carrots, tomatoes, and broccoli. Starchy vegetables, such as peas, potatoes and corn, contain 15 grams of carbohydrate per serving.

Other Foods

According to Medical News Today, pure vegetable oil does not contain any carbohydrates. However, vegetable oil should be used sparingly, as it contains about 15 grams of fat per serving. Water also contains zero carbs. Drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses per day.