According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, a low carbohydrate diet is commonly defined as a diet that restricts the consumption of carbohydrates to 20 percent or less of total calories. However, some low carbohydrate diets may only restrict consumption to 40 percent or less. The purpose of the diet is to eat foods that control the level of blood sugar and that are filling. Though there are a large variety of low carbohydrate diets, each one follows a general eating plan.
Features
In order to compensate for the low consumption of carbohydrates, low carb diets increase the consumption of dietary proteins and fats. For example, the Carbohydrate Addict's Diet derives 23 percent of its calories from protein and 54 percent of its calories from fat. In spite of the high content of fat, which is an energy dense nutrient, the diet only allows about 1,476 total calories a day.
Foods
Proteins in a low carbohydrate diet primarily come from meat, poultry, seafood, eggs and dairy, while dietary fats can include both animal fats and oils, the latter of which is commonly used for cooking or dressings. Grains are severely restricted, unless you eat a low carbohydrate alternative. Most of the carbohydrates come from vegetables and a limited amount of fruits, nuts and beans.
Breakfast
Most low carbohydrate breakfasts typically involve eggs, which can be hard-boiled, deviled, scrambled, or made into an omelet. Meat, which includes sausage or bacon, and vegetables can be eaten separately or be combined with the eggs. Milk -- a protein drink -- tea, coffee, vegetable juice or fruit juice are all possible beverages.
Lunch
For lunch it's a good idea to have a salad, especially if it's combined with meat such as ham or chicken, or a large piece of meat like chicken breast. Some diets that recommend five separate meals instead of three include two snacks before and after lunch. These snacks can include cheese, vegetables or nuts. If you work out or lift weights around this time, you should also consume some kind of protein drink.
Dinner
Seafood is a popular option for dinner on low carb diets. For example, the South Beach Diet recommends eating salmon. Steak or poultry is also encouraged, and soups or vegetables can be added as a complement to the main dish. Sugar free desserts are fine, especially if they include healthy fruits and aren't very high in fat.
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