High-carbohydrate foods consist of grains, sugars and starchy fruits and vegetables. Limiting these high-carb foods is a popular way to lose weight. Many foods high in protein are naturally low in carbohydrates. When you restrict carbs, you often increase the amount of protein and fat in your diet. Consider choosing high-protein foods that are low in saturated fat, as too much saturated fat can increase your risk of developing heart disease over time.
Eggs
Eggs provide 6 g of protein each with just .4 g of carbohydrates. Eat eggs any time of day -- scrambled at breakfast, chopped over low-carb greens for a lunchtime salad or baked into a frittata with low-carb zucchini and tomatoes at dinner. If you are concerned about cholesterol, egg whites are a no-cholesterol, high-protein option.
Meat
All meats are high in protein with no carbohydrates. The leanest options include pork tenderloin and specific cuts of beef, including 97 percent lean ground beef, eye of round roast, sirloin tip, top round, bottom round and top sirloin steak. Grass-fed beef, and game meats, such as bison, elk and venison, are usually leaner than grain-fed beef while still offering high amounts of protein with no carbs.
Fish
Fish and shellfish are healthy sources of protein. Tilapia, cod, shrimp and tuna are readily available options with no carbohydrates and 6 to 7 g of protein per oz. Mussels and oysters have higher carb counts than other shellfish -- 3 oz. of cooked mussels provide 6 g of carbohydrates, for example. Fatty fish, such as salmon, herring and mackerel, provide essential omega-3 fatty acids and protein. Strive to eat two servings of these fatty fish options weekly, advises the American Heart Association.
Poultry
Chicken, turkey, pheasant and quail are all high in protein and have no carbohydrates. Opt for white meat without the skin when possible to limit saturated fat intake.
Cheese
Cheese provides protein, with only trace amounts of carbohydrates. One cup of cheddar cheese has 33 g of protein and just 2 g of carbohydrates, for example. However, cheese also contains substantial saturated fat, so choose low-fat options when possible. Part-skim mozzarella, soft goat cheese and feta are lower fat options that still contain few carbohydrates per oz. and 4 to 6 g of protein.
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