Healthy Low Carb Food Ideas

If you've decided to lose some weight, you've probably noticed a plethora of diet options available to you. Low-carbohydrate diets in particular have been popular since Dr. Robert Atkins published the Atkins Diet in the 1970s. One of the more challenging aspects of sticking to a low-carb diet is varying your food selections enough to get all the essential nutrients you need.

Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt is a low-carbohydrate alternative to the American variety. Greek yogurt is also high in calcium and protein. With a thick consistency and slightly sour taste, Greek yogurt can be used as a healthy alternative to commonly high-fat condiments like sour cream and dips.

Leafy Greens

Low-carbohydrate foods are often deficient in fiber due to the absence of grains. Leafy greens like spinach and romaine lettuce are high in fiber as well as iron and folate. Leafy greens can be steamed, boiled or eaten raw in salads.

Fish

Like other varieties of meat, fish is devoid of carbohydrates. Unlike beef, pork and chicken, however, fish is high in omega-3 fatty acids, which seem to have a positive effect on cholesterol. According to the "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition," daily fish combined with calorie moderation seems to lower cholesterol and triglycerides more than calorie moderation alone.

Olive Oil

Olive oil is a great all-around cooking oil and condiment for a healthy low-carb diet. Olive oil contains no carbohydrates and is high in heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Olive oil can be used as a replacement for butter and margarine, which contain saturated and trans fats.

Green Tea

Finding healthy low-carb beverages can be challenging for low-carb dieters. Juice and soft drinks contain too much sugar for low-carb dieting. For dieters who want to avoid artificial sweeteners, green tea can be a healthy, all-purpose beverage. Hot, it can replace coffee, which is higher in caffeine. Cold, it can be a replacement for juice and soft drinks. Green tea, according to the Mayo Clinic, may have a preventative effect on cancer and heart disease.