According to the USDA, consuming local produce and organic food may improve diet quality, promote weight loss, reduce pesticide usage and lower your carbon footprint. FoodNews.org reports that pesticides and other toxins used on conventionally-grown produce can damage your health. Choosing natural and organic foods can decrease exposure to chemicals that may have adverse health effects. An abundance of natural, low-carb foods can be found at your local farmer's market or grocery store.
Fruits and Vegetables
Low-carb fruits include berries, grapefruit, lemons and limes. Non-starchy vegetables are low in carbohydrates. Examples include asparagus, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, leafy greens, mushrooms and tomatoes. To find the freshest product, visit your farmer's market for local produce. Ask vendor's about their growing methods to determine how pests, weeds and disease are controlled. Purchase organic produce from a grocery store to limit consumption of unnatural pesticides and herbicides. If you buy standard produce, wash it thoroughly or remove the skin before eating fruits and vegetables.
Fish, Meat and Poultry
Fish, meat and poultry provide significant amounts of protein and little or no carbohydrates. The USDA requires that meat labeled "natural" be minimally processed and free of any artificial ingredients and preservatives. Organic meet must meet even stricter standards. BreastCancer.org reports that farm-raised salmon has higher levels of toxins than wild-caught salmon. To limit exposure to unnatural contaminants, choose wild-caught fish and seafood whenever possible. Varying the type of fish and seafood in your diet also reduces the risk of consuming high levels of toxins.
Beans, Nuts and Seeds
Beans, nuts and seeds are nutritious and filling because they provide both protein and fiber. Choose organic or local varieties whenever possible. Nuts and seeds contain a high percentage of fat, so be careful not to overindulge.
Dairy Products
Low-carb dairy products include cream, Greek-style yogurt, eggs and certain types of cheese. To get the most natural dairy products, visit your local farmer's market or buy organic products from the grocery store. Look for products that are produced without the use of rBGH (recombinant bovine growth hormone). Regarding the potential adverse health effects of dairy products produced using rBGH, the American Cancer Society states that the evidence is inconclusive. However, the American Medical Association recommends that hospitals serve milk produced without the use of this synthetic hormone.
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