What Foods Can You Eat On The Carb Addict's Diet?

The Carbohydrate Addict's Diet is a weight loss program created by biologist Richard Heller and research psychologist Rachael Heller. It aims at managing a condition the Hellers call hyperinsulinemia, in which eating carbohydrates triggers increased hunger and food cravings. Though carbohydrate addiction lacks scientific evidence, according to the American Heart Association, proponents of the Carbohydrate Addict's Diet believe that limiting your carbohydrate-rich foods to components of one meal daily promotes appetite control, weight loss and wellness.

Protein-Rich Foods

Potein-rich foods play a major role in the Carbohydrate Addict's Diet. Protein helps balance your blood sugar and stave off carbohydrate cravings, according to the Hellers. They suggest incorporating protein-rich foods into all of your meals. Since high-fat protein sources, such as fatty red meats, processed meats and whole milk, are high in saturated fat, consume lean varieties most often. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends that most people consume three servings of low-fat or fat-free dairy products daily. In addition to providing protein, dairy products are rich sources of vital nutrients like calcium and vitamin D. Additional lean protein sources include skinless chicken and turkey breasts, legumes, lean meats and fish.

Non-Starchy Vegetables

The Carbohydrate Addict's Diet also encourages ample amounts of non-starchy vegetables, such as spinach, kale, broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, string beans, bell peppers, cabbage and asparagus. Non-starchy vegetables provide a broad range of nutrients and rich amounts of fiber. Fiber-rich foods are important for preventing constipation --- a potential complication of high-protein diets, according to Mayo Clinic dietitian Katherine Zeratsky. Incorporate a variety of colors and types of non-starchy vegetables into your diet regularly for maximum benefits.

Fats

Dietary fats promote nutrient absorption, satiation, brain function and desirable food texture. Since fat sources are generally low in carbohydrate content, the Carbohydrate Addict's Diet allows fats at all of your daily meals. Select unsaturated fat sources most often to reduce your risk for high cholesterol, hypertension and heart disease. Healthy fat sources include plant-based oils such as olive and canola; nuts; seeds; avocados and fatty fish such as salmon, albacore tuna, herring, halibut and flounder.

Starches and Sweets

Starches -- such as bread, pasta and potatoes -- and sweets -- such as cake, candy and cookies -- are permitted once per day by the Carbohydrate Addict's Diet. You can enjoy a carbohydrate-rich food of your choice as part of your daily "reward meal," which should also contain non-starchy vegetables and a protein-rich food and, if desired, a fat source. Though any starch or sweet is permitted, complex carbohydrates, such as whole grains, sweet potatoes, baked potato or squash, provide the most nutritious options. The Hellers recommend that your meal, including dessert, be consumed within an hour, without a break between protein-rich foods and carbohydrates. Aim for balanced reward meals that incorporate a variety of complex carbohydrate options. Enjoying a sweet dessert on occasion may help prevent feelings of deprivation.