No-carb diets can be quite a challenge. However, with a simple strategy to stick with natural foods such as eggs, cheese, poultry, meat, seafood and green water-rich vegetables, you can reap the benefits in no time. Many of these natural-state foods naturally have zero carbohydrate content, so there is no need to wander into the middle aisles of the supermarket for the processed food items. Stick to the outskirts of the supermarket, where you will find fresh produce, meat, poultry, dairy and eggs.
Eggs
Eggs are an easy to make no-carb food that can be whipped up for breakfast, lunch, snacks and dinner. Create an omelet or fritatta in the morning, an egg salad with mayonnaise for lunch, hard-boiled eggs for snacks and poached eggs atop water-rich greens for dinner. Eggs are rich in amino acids and protein, yet also high in cholesterol. Therefore, be sure to consume eggs in moderation or opt for an egg white option and get rid of the yolk.
Cheese
Cheese is a favorite among many low-carb and no-carb devotees as it can be the perfect snack, topping or main dish. Be sure to watch yourself, however, as many of us like to snack on "cheese and cracker" platters--and we all know crackers are not a carb-free food. Try string cheese or melted cheese in omelets, or grilled or baked into your favorite dish. A few delicious no-carb cheeses to try are Monterey Jack, gruyere, cheddar, muenster and fontina.
Meat, Poultry
Beef, poultry, seafood and other meats in their natural state are carb-free foods. Again, opt for grilling or poaching a healthier fish platter. Talk to your butcher for quality slices of roast beef, chicken and turkey, which make great snacks when rolled up with a slice of avocado and a romaine lettuce leaf. Before consuming any meats, poultry or seafood, check labels for carbohydrate content as they may contain carbohydrates after processing. Get creative with your carb-free meat source and try a rotisserie chicken or stir-fry. Beef, poultry and seafood are delicious when baked, poached, marinated or grilled.
Water-Rich Green Vegetables
Not all vegetables are carb free, and it is important to be aware of starchy and root vegetables. For no-carb/low-carb options try lettuce, radish, bok choy, spinach and celery. Remember that not all vegetables are low/no-carb, so be sure to check labels and research starchy foods such as potatoes before purchasing.
References
- "The Good Carb Cookbook : Secrets of Eating Low on the Glycemic Index"; Sandra Woodruff; 2001
- "Low-Carb (The Little Guides Series)"; Ariana Klepac; 2004
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