A low-carb diet consists of consuming a large amount of protein and fat and limiting the amounts of carbohydrates taken in each day. Low-carb diets can help you lose weight, but because low-carb diets mainly consist of animal products, it is important not to choose low-carb foods that could potentially increase your risk for developing high cholesterol or heart disease.
Processed Meats
When consuming a low-carb diet, it is best to avoid processed meats such as bacon, deli meats, hot dogs and sausage. On average, a daily serving of processed meat -- about one to two slices of deli meats or one hot dog -- was associated with a 42 percent higher risk of developing heart disease and a 19 percent higher risk of developing diabetes, according to a study in 2010 by the Harvard School of Public Health.
Saturated Fats
Avoid consuming meats and dairy products high in saturated fats, such as full-fat dairy products, butter, lard, high-fat meats, poultry with the skin on it, and coconut or palm oils. Consuming large amounts of saturated fats can raise blood cholesterol levels. High blood cholesterol is a risk factor for developing heart disease and some cancers. Limiting the amount of saturated fats in your diet reduces your chances of having a heart attack or stroke.
Trans Fats
Trans fats are manufactured -- produced when a liquid oil is made into a solid fat. Trans fats are found in many processed baked goods, shortenings and margarines. Trans fats raise blood cholesterol levels and are worse for you than saturated fat and, thus, not conducive to a heart-healthy diet, according to the American Diabetes Association. Trans fats are also known as hydrogenated oil or partially hydrogenated oil. Any foods with trans fats in them should be avoided.
Considerations
Although a low-carb diet might help you lose weight, any time you remove food groups from your diet, there is a potential risk for complications. Limiting fruits, vegetables and whole-grain foods from your diet can contribute to constipation and other gastrointestinal problems. Additionally, ketosis -- a condition caused by incomplete fat breakdown -- is also a concern with low-carb diets, according to the Mayo Clinic. Ketosis can cause weakness, nausea, dehydration, dizziness and irritability.
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