Although carbohydrates are your body's main source of fuel, low-carbohydrate diets can be beneficial. According to research published in the July 2008 issue of the "New England Journal of Medicine," using a low-carbohydrate diet can help reduce weight and cholesterol. Because fat is a calorie-dense nutrient, low-fat foods may help you reach a caloric deficit, which is needed for weight loss. Consult a doctor before making changes to your diet.
Poultry
Poultry includes turkey, chicken and ostrich, all of which are low in fat and carbohydrates. These meats are rich in protein, a nutrient that helps build your body's cells and tissues. Because of this, protein is an essential nutrient, and MedlinePlus suggests consuming 50 to 65 g daily. A 6 oz. portion of ostrich meat contains 160 calories, with 0 carbohydrates, 1.5 g of fat and 36 g of protein. Chicken is lean as well, with a 4 oz. portion providing 110 calories, with 2.5 g of fat, no carbohydrates and 23 g of protein. A 3 oz. serving of turkey contains 2.7 g of fat, with no carbohydrates and 26 g of protein.
Fish
Although fish contain little to no carbohydrates, not all varieties are low in fat; salmon and catfish are rich in fat. As the New York Seafood Council explains, mahi mahi, tuna, whiting, haddock and halibut are among the fish with the lowest fat content. In these varieties, fat comprises less than 20 percent of their calories. The council explains that the lighter the color of the fish, the lower in fat it tends to be.
Tofu
Tofu is a soy-based food that is often used to replace meat on vegetarian menu items. Although not as low in carbohydrates and fat as some meats, tofu is low in both nutrients. A 100 g serving of tofu contains 80 calories, with 4 g of fat, 2 g of carbohydrates and 8 g of protein.
Broccoli
Broccoli is low in calories, carbohydrates and fat. This food is also rich in vitamins C and K, and is a good source of fiber. Each cup of broccoli contains just 31 calories, with no fat, 6 g of carbohydrates, 2g of fiber and 3 g of protein.
Spaghetti Squash
This distinctive vegetable may be a suitable low-carbohydrate alternative to pasta, as the inside of spaghetti squash becomes stringy like spaghetti when cooked. A 1/2 cup serving of spaghetti squash contains just 25 calories, with no fat, 4 g of carbohydrates, 1 g of fiber and 1 g of protein.
References
- "New England Journal of Medicine"; Weight Loss With a Low-Carbohydrate, Mediterranean or Low-Fat Diet; I. Shai et al.; July 2008
- MedlinePlus: Dietary Proteins
- LIVESTRONG.COM MyPlate: Calories in Blackwing Ostrich Steak
- LIVESTRONG.COM MyPlate: Calories in Tyson Chicken Breast
- LIVESTRONG.COM MyPlate: Calories in Turkey Breast (Skinless, Roasted)
- New York Seafood Council: Seafood and Nutrition



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