What Makes a Low-Carb Food?

• Low-carb foods can be found in every food group.
  
  Carbohydrates in our food work in the body to increase blood-sugar levels. This causes the body to naturally produce insulin, which locks that sugar into the cells. This, in turn, works to prevent fat from breaking down and being released from your system. Examples of high-carb foods are most pastas, breads and even some high-starch vegetables like potatoes.
  
  Low-carb foods contain less sugar and starch and therefore do not generate blood sugar in your body. Most common low-carb foods include high levels of protein and even fat, but very little sugar or starch.
  
  

Proteins Rule

• Foods with a lower-fat and higher-protein content provide balance.
  
  One type of low-carb food that is easily identifiable is protein. Beef, pork, chicken and fish are standards when grilled, broiled or baked. However, any other preparation can add carbohydrates to the protein and should be avoided in most cases. Most dairy products (eggs, milk, cheese) can also be considered low-carb foods, though reading the labels on milk products may be necessary to guarantee the least amount of carbs. Sausage can also be low-carb, but again, reading the package and choosing the brand that contains the least amount of sugar is necessary.
  
  

A Healthy Mix

• Many vegetables and fruits are low-carb and provide a healthy alternative.
  
  Certain vegetables and fruits that contain a low amount of starch and natural sugars can be considered low-carb. They include cauliflower, green beans, artichokes, spinach, zucchini, broccoli, cabbage, mushrooms and asparagus. Fruit choices can include strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, cantaloupe, lemons and limes. In addition, squash of the pumpkin, spaghetti and yellow variety can be added to the low-carb list. Some nuts are also considered low-carb; almonds and pistachios can be added to salads or crushed to use as a breading for chicken or fish.
  
  As with any diet plan, there is the possibility to go overboard: Keep in mind that your body does need some carbohydrates in order to work properly, so eliminating them completely from your diet may cause health problems. Before attempting any diet, consult a physician, nurse practioner or dietician for a plan that will be beneficial to you.