Identifying Low Carbohydrate Foods

There are several reasons why you might be watching your carbohydrate intake. You might be on a low-carbohydrate diet or maybe you have a health reason that requires you to lower your intake. Whatever your reason for wanting to eat fewer carbohydrates, you will need to have the knowledge of which foods are low in carbohydrates and can be eaten more often.

Fortunately, there are many delicious foods that also happen to be low in carbohydrates. You shouldn't feel hungry or miss the carbohydrate-laden foods that could ruin your eating goals. There are a lot of filling and satisfying options out there, even if you have to make substitutions for some foods.

• Meats are a low-carbohydrate option. When most people think of "low carb," they probably think of meat first, and for good reason: many meats have no carbohydrates at all. With meat, you have many options and a variety of ways to prepare your food. If you are watching your carbohydrate intake due to a diet, keep in mind that some meats (such as red meats) can be high in fat and should probably be eaten less often. Lean meats like chicken, poultry and fish are great foods to help you enjoy a high-protein, low-carbohydrate lifestyle. Try grilling some chicken or baking fish in the oven. Eat deli meats for a more convenient option.
• Dairy foods can also be low in carbohydrates. Cheese is a filling and low-carbohydrate option that can help you feel satisfied and full. You can sprinkle it onto other foods or enjoy it as a snack by itself. Eggs are also an excellent low-carbohydrate food as well, and they are easy to prepare.
• Nuts and seeds are a great way to enjoy a low-carbohydrate, high-protein snack. Almonds, peanuts, and other nuts taste great and are quite filling.

Many vegetables are low in carbohydrates. Broccoli, zucchini, cabbage, and peppers are just a few lower-carbohydrate options you have to choose from. Vegetables are healthy and are an important part of a balanced diet. As a bonus, many vegetables are also high in fiber, which is important in a high-protein diet.

Even though you may be trying to cut carbohydrates, you are still likely to crave high-carbohydrate foods like bread and pasta once in a while. It is possible to find special low-carbohydrate breads, or perhaps you could fill a tortilla with the contents of a sandwich instead of putting it between bread slices. You should also be able to find lower-carbohydrate options for pastas as well as other foods that you might be craving.