A low carb diet typically restricts carbohydrates, such as those found in pasta, bread, and sugary foods, and is high in protein, fat, and vegetables. Here are some foods to eat on a low carb diet:
Vegetables and Fruits:
- Spinach
- Broccoli
- Cauliflower
- Zucchini
- Brussels sprouts
- Asparagus
- Avocados
- Eggplant
- Bell peppers
- Green beans
- Kale
- Celery
- Lettuce, such as romaine
- Lemons
- Limes
- Artichokes
- Cabbage
- Chile peppers, such as jalapeños
- Mushrooms
- Onions
- Tomatoes
- Tomatillos
- Berries, such as blackberries, strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries
Meats:
- Chicken
- Beef
- Turkey
- Pork, such as bacon and ham
- Lamb
- Duck
- Offal, such as liver
- Sausages and ground meat, such as ground beef, ground pork, ground turkey, and ground chicken
Dairy and Eggs:
- Butter
- Cream cheese
- Sour cream
- Cream, such as heavy whipping cream and half-and-half
- Any variety of cheese – sliced, snack sized, blocks, and shredded
- Greek yogurt
- Eggs
Cooking and Baking:
- Almond flour
- Coconut flour
- Unsweetened cocoa powder
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Vanilla extract
- Olive oil
- Coconut oil
- Avocado oil
- Mayonnaise
Condiments, Dressings, and Spreads:
- Mustard
- Hot sauce
- Soy sauce or tamari
- Vinegar
- Ranch dressing
- Blue cheese dressing
- Caesar dressing
- Guacamole
- Salsa
- Pesto
- Peanut butter
- Almond butter
Foods high in added sugar and carbs should be only an occasional inclusion in a low carb diet. Depending on your daily carb allowance, you might need to limit or avoid the following foods:
- Bread
- Pasta
- Rice
- Potatoes
- Sugary drinks
- Candy
- Baked goods
- Processed snacks
- Beer
Its important to check the ingredients label of foods to find options that fit into your diet. While a low carb diet can be healthy and have health benefits, some types of low carb diets, like keto and Atkins, may be overly restrictive and unsustainable in the long run.
