When following a low-carbohydrate diet, total daily carbohydrates are generally kept to between 50 g and 150 g, explains MayoClinic.com. Breads, grains, cereals, sugars and many fruits are high in carbohydrates. Foods high in protein, fat and water are generally low in carbohydrates.
Watery Vegetables
Many vegetables are low in carbohydrates, especially watery, fibrous types. Arugulas celery, cucumber, endive, fennel, jicama, mushrooms and sweet peppers are examples of ones with less than 1 g of carbs per ½- to 1-cup serving. Artichokes, asparagus, avocados, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, eggplant, kale and onions are slightly higher in carbs, but still contain 3 g or less per serving.
Meat and Poultry
All meats are low in carbohydrates. Beef, bison, pork, lamb, veal and venison contain no carbohydrates. Chicken and turkey contain no carbohydrates. Other birds, such as duck, Cornish game hens and goose are also carb-free. Most deli meats, bacon and other processed meats such as sausage and hot dogs are also low in carbohydrates. Check the labels, however, as some contain added sugars or fillers which add carbohydrates.
Eggs and Cheese
One large egg contains just .61 g of carbohydrates. Scrambling, boiling, frying and poaching do not affect this content. Cheese contains about 1 g of carbohydrates per ounce. Cheddar, Parmesan and gouda contain some of the lowest amounts with 0 g to .6 g per oz.
Fish and Shellfish
Fish such as flounder, salmon, sardines, tuna and trout contain no carbohydrates. Shellfish also contains minimal carbohydrates. Mussels and oysters are low in carbohydrates, but contain more than other shellfish varieties with 6.28 g per 3-oz. steamed serving and 4.7 g per 3-oz raw, respectively. Avoid fried shrimp, oysters and fish as the breading adds significant amounts of carbohydrates.
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