Low-carbohydrate diets are popular. Whether you choose the Atkins Diet, SouthBeach or another low-carb diet plan, or are simply trying to cut back on bread, many companies make low-carb breads, buns, muffins and other products. Low-carb breads can help you maintain a low-carb diet without feeling deprived of breads.
Bread Alternatives
In a USA Today article, low-carb experts Dean Rotbart and Elaine Payne recommended several low-carb products, including breads. Rotbart ilikes Rudi's Organic Bakery Low-Carb Bread and Sara Lee's Delightful breads, while Payne recommends Natural Ovens Bakery Golden Crunch Lo-Carb Bread or Irene's Health Bakery White Gluten Low Carb Bread. Many other companies make low-carb breads. Check your grocery to see what's available. Although low-carb bread products were not very tasty at first, their quality has improved with the popularity of low-carb diets, and you should be able to find a suitable low-carb bread in your area.
Cutting Back on Bread
You can reduce your carbohydrate intake without resorting to expensive, low-carb bread alternatives. If you grew up eating a piece of bread with each meal, it may be a hard habit to break, but cutting out those unnecessary bread "appetizers" can make a big difference. When making a pasta-based or rice-based dish, try using less of the grain and the same amount or more of the meat, sauce and vegetables. Chances are you won't notice you're eating less pasta or rice. For snacks, eat a piece of fresh fruit or some vegetables with low-fat dip. The fiber in the produce helps you feel full and resist the urge to grab a cookie or soda.
Low-Carb Benefits and Risks
According to the Mayo Clinic, low-carb diets work because they restrict the foods you eat, which usually results in eating fewer calories. The weight loss comes from caloric restriction, not from eating "good" foods and avoiding "bad" ones. Low-carb diets can also have a diuretic effect, causing you to lose water weight that can return when you go off the diet. Small amounts of whole grains, fruits and vegetables are acceptable and encouraged on a low-carb diet. These are essential sources of fiber, which prevents gastrointestonal problems. Stick to lean proteins and low-fat dairy. Don't overload on red meat and other saturated fats, or you may raise your cholesterol level.
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