30 Best Low-Carb Foods Packed With Nutritional Value – Good Housekeeping

Low-carb diets are more popular than ever. But before you hop on the bandwagon, registered dietitian and Dressing On The Side author Jaclyn London, M. S., R. D ., says it’s important to remember that just because a food has carbohydrates doesn’t mean it’s unhealthy. In fact, our body needs carbs to survive. London says that foods including legumes, lentils, potatoes and rice —all of which contain carbs — contain a variety of essential nutrients plus nixing them from your diet completely would mean missing out upon their many benefits.

“What’s more important than the percentage of carbohydrates you’re consuming is the quality of those carbs, ” says registered dietitian and Sugar Shock co-author Samantha Cassetty, M. S., L. D . “ The latest national survey shows that adults in the U. S. consume 42% of calories from low-quality carbohydrate sources, which are foods that have added sugars and refined grains, ” she states. “These foods tend to be less filling and contain fewer nutrients, plus they raise your disease risk, so they really work against a person. ”

With this in mind, are there ever times when someone can benefit from a low-carb diet ? Both dietitians say that this way of eating could potentially be beneficial for people trying in order to lose weight or manage their blood sugar levels. (Cassetty specifies that it isn’t the only way to do either. ) If you do want in order to give a low-carb diet the try, you certainly won’t have a shortage associated with foods to eat — there’s still plenty on the table. Bookmark this list of nutrient-rich, low carbohydrate foods for ideas on what to function into your meals.

What is a low-carb diet?

Since so many food items have at least some carbs, it’s a bit tricky to figure out what counts as the low-carb food . While London states there aren’t set guidelines for this, she says that will in general a low-carb diet is considered an eating plan where less than 30% of calories come from carbohydrates.

“For reference, the latest nationwide data implies that Americans consume 50% of calorie consumption from carbs, ” adds Cassetty. “Meanwhile, government recommendations suggest People in america eat 45-65% of calories from fat from carbohydrates. So , the low-carb diet is consuming at or below the particular lower end of this range. ”

As mentioned, there is no shortage of foods that can fit within a low-carb diet plan. Here are 30 low-carb foods dietitians love, organized by meals group.

Vegetables

1 . Leafy greens

1 cup leafy greens = 1g carbohydrates

The first low-carb foods on London’s list is leafy greens, which includes spinach, kale, arugula, bok choy, Swiss chard and collard vegetables. “Leafy greens are super nutrient dense, ” Greater london says. Though they’re low in carbs and unhealthy calories, leafy greens are high in fiber (which supports the gut, heart plus lowers inflammation ), antioxidants (good for the brain and heart ), calcium ( important for bone health ), magnesium ( which is important with regard to cellular wellness ) plus B vitamins (important regarding brain health).

2. Zucchini

one medium zucchini = 6g carbohydrates

While winter squash (like kabocha squash and delicata squash) are usually not considered low-carb, London says that zucchini (a summer squash) is. Two of zucchini’s numerous nutrients include immune system-supporting vitamin C and potassium, which usually supports cardiovascular health. One way to use zucchini to make a meal lower in carbs will be to incorporate it into pasta dishes; for example, mixing zucchini noodles with traditional noodles.

3. Cauliflower

⅙ medium head cauliflower sama dengan 5g carbohydrates

Stroll down the frozen food aisles at the grocery store plus you’ll find cauliflower as a primary ingredient in several traditionally high-carb foods such as rice, mashed potatoes and even tots. Each dietitians are all for it. Eating cauliflower regularly can support the immune system, bone health and lower your risk for swelling.

4. Brussels sprouts

1 cup Brussels sprouts = 8g carbs

Another cruciferous low carbohydrate veg that will both dietitians love is Brussels sprouts , which are good intended for the gut, heart plus eyes. “Shaved Brussels sprouts are a great crunchy salad component, and when sautéed, they can be used in a veggie hash or like a standalone side dish, ” Cassetty claims.

5. Broccoli

1 cup broccoli sama dengan 6g carbohydrates

London is the big broccoli fan because is it full of gut-healthy fiber and has many nutrients that support heart health, including potassium, folate and iron. One delicious way to enjoy this veg is usually by grilling it plus seasoning it with garlic, honey and red chile.

6. Cabbage

one cup cabbage = 5g carbohydrates

Did you know that diet programs packs the same nutritional benefits as kale ? It’s another low-carb veggie on Cassetty’s must-have list. There are so many ways in order to cook along with cabbage, which includes adding this to soups, stews, salad or making probiotic-rich slaw.

Fruit

7. Tomato

1 cup tomatoes = 7g carbohydrates

Want to support your own immune system but aren’t in to citrus? Tomatoes are another fruit rich in supplement C — one reason why London loves this low carbohydrate food. Consuming tomatoes regularly is also good for your skin because the fruit’s carotenoids help protect against UV rays.

8. Strawberries

one cup strawberries = 11g carbs

Berries may be small, yet both dietitians say they are super nutrient-rich. One reason they’re so beloved by healthy eating experts is because they have many different types associated with antioxidants plus have been scientifically linked to protecting against cardiovascular illness, inflammation and diabetes. The type of berry that’s lowest within carbohydrates is definitely strawberries. Eating this particular low-carb food regularly can help reduce obesity related disorders plus may control certain types of cancer.

9. Melon

1 cup melon = 13g carbohydrates

Whether you enjoy fresh melon or even buy it frozen, Cassetty says it’s another nutrient-rich low-carb meals worth incorporating into the diet—especially if you have a sweet tooth. “One thing I want to make clear is that you don’t possess to worry about the natural sugar inside fruit. It’s quite different from the sugar added in order to food, ” she says. “Most individuals benefit from about two servings of fruit per day, yet only 10% of people meet their daily fruit requirements . ”

10. Apples

1 cup apples = 17g carbohydrates

Right now, it’s prime apple season and Cassetty says this is yet another immensely beneficial low-carb fruit. You know that old saying about an apple a day keeping the doctor away ? That’s because the procyanidins in apples (a type of flavonoid) is linked to lowering LDL cholesterol, which helps protect against cardiovascular disease.

11. Cherries

a single cup cherries = 19g carbohydrates

Even though cherries are higher in carbs than most of the other foods on this list, Cassetty says that they still fit within a low-carb diet. (Remember: it’s the particular percent of carbohydrates from total calories and also the nutrient quality of the foods that will matter. ) Snacking on cherries helps support gut health (thanks to the fruit’s fiber), brain health (due to the antioxidants) and immune health (because of its vitamin C).

Seafood

12. Salmon

0g carbohydrates

London says that all seafood is low-carb and states virtually everyone can benefit through eating more of it. “ Between 80 and 90 percent of Americans don’t eat the particular recommended amount of seafood, which is two servings a week, ” she says. She recommends varying your seafood source in order to keep from getting bored (and therefore less likely to eat this regularly). Cassetty recommends salmon in particular. “It’s especially rich in omega-3 fatty acids, a type of fat that helps lower inflammation plus control heart disease and potentially mood disorders , ” the girl says.

13. Tuna

0g carbohydrates

Cassetty says that, like salmon, tuna is a great source associated with omega-3 fatty acids. Whether you buy tuna fresh, frozen or canned, you’ll reap the many benefits. Like other types of seafood, tuna is also full of protein, so adding it to your meal will make it a lot more satiating and help provide your body with energy.

14. Mackerel

0g carbohydrates

Yet another fish full of proteins and omega 3 fat acids that will London recommends is mackerel. “Fatty fish like trout and mackerel are furthermore high in vitamin D, ” she states. She loves to cook her mackerel with veggies plus season everything with new herbs for a flavorful low carbohydrate meal.

15. Anchovies

0g carbs

Many people overlook anchovies, but London says they’re great to incorporate into meals as an easy, low-carb way to increase the protein and omega-3 fatty acids in your meal. One method to enjoy anchovies is with roasted asparagus, olive oil, garlic, red pepper flakes and parsley.

Meat plus eggs

16. Grass-fed beef

0g carbohydrates

Like seafood, meat doesn’t contain carbohydrates, but London says this doesn’t mean it’s healthier than plant-based proteins that are higher in carbs, such as legumes or lentils. This, the lady says, shows that all food items can have a place in the healthy diet and shows why high-carb foods shouldn’t be seen as “bad. ” In terms of a nutrient-rich type of meats, Cassetty recommends grass-fed meat . “It’s higher inside vitamin A and E content, lower in total body fat and has a healthier omega 3: omega 6 ratio compared to grain-fed meat, ” she says.

17. Grass-fed lamb

0g carbohydrates

Cassetty states that, like grass-fed beef, grass-fed lamb is an excellent source of both protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Pair it with roasting zucchini or even Brussels sprouts and the side salad for a delicious low-carb food.

18. Skinless chicken breasts and thighs

0g carbohydrates

“Skinless chicken breasts plus thighs are usually other solid meat proteins options, ” Cassetty claims. The majority of the saturated fat in chicken is found in the skin, which is why skinless chicken is more nutritious.

19. Eggs

1 large egg sama dengan 0. 6g carbohydrates

“Eggs are such a convenient, low-carb resource of protein and a great way to support the heart, ” London says. “ Eggs are a good source of several B vitamins and they also offer immune-supporting nutrients, like zinc and selenium, ” Cassetty adds, also pointing out that eggs contain supplement D. “What makes ovum so great is that they are quick and easy to make with other healthy meals, like veggies. Plus, they’re a budget-friendly protein pick, ” the girl says.

Dairy

20. Plain Greek yogurt

5 oz. container associated with Greek yogurt = 5g carbohydrates

Both dietitians say that you absolutely do not have to give up dairy to adhere to a low carbohydrate diet. With 10 grams of proteins per cup and just 3. six grams of carbs, Greek yogurt will be especially nutrient-rich, says Cassetty. “One study found that people who ate six portions of fermented foods — such as Ancient greek yogurt — per day had an increase in microbiome diversity and a decrease in inflammatory markers, ” Cassetty says. Pair your Greek yogurt along with one associated with the fruits mentioned earlier on this listing for a low-carb breakfast or snack.

21. Goat cheese

0g carbohydrates

Although calcium is a key nutrient for bone wellness — particularly with regard to postmenopausal women — Cassetty states the vast majority of individuals in the U. S. do not get enough. “Cheese is usually a low-carb option that can help on each the calcium and protein fronts, and it furthermore adds flavor to foods and snacks, ” the lady says. Set goat cheese (which offers no carbs at all) with marinated olives for any satiating snack or appetizer .

22. Parmesan parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon of Parmesan = 1g carbohydrates

Adding shaved Parmesan for your zucchini noodles, shaved Brussels sprouts or even salad can make your dinner more satiating while still keeping this low-carb. Cassetty points away that this is yet another great source of calcium, which usually Parmesan provides in addition to nutritional vitamins A, B, B12 plus D.

Nuts and seeds

23. Walnuts

1 ounce walnuts = 4g carbs

“Walnuts have fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, Vitamin B6, copper plus manganese—all nutrition associated with numerous health benefits including heart wellness, gut health and cognitive health, ” Cassetty says. The girl adds that research from Harvard found that compared to those who didn’t eat walnuts, those eating the serving associated with walnuts five times a week had a 14% lower risk of dying through any cause, a 25% lower risk of dying from heart disease, and the gain within 1 . 3 years associated with life expectancy — that’s pretty major!

24. Chia seeds

1 ounce chia seeds sama dengan 12g carbohydrates

If you’re looking for a way in order to instantly boost the dietary fiber and proteins in your meal, Cassetty says that will sprinkling chia seeds on top is it. “They’re also an excellent source of calcium, ” she adds. All these superpowers without a major carb load.

25. Peanuts

one ounce peanuts = 5g carbohydrates

Though peanuts are increased in carbohydrates than the other foods on this checklist, London says they’re even now worth maintaining in the pantry regarding a great protein-rich treat. (She likes roasted nuts in particular. ) Similarly, she states that peanut butter can be enjoyed on a low-carb diet plan and suggests going for one without added sugar to ensure it’s as nutrient-dense as possible.

26. Hazelnuts

1 ounce hazelnuts = 5g carbohydrates

“Hazelnuts are a great low-carb food to snack on, add to meals that’s sautéed or incorporate into a salad, ” London says. Eating hazelnuts regularly have been found to help protect against chronic inflammation and support heart health.

Oils and condiments

27. Extra-virgin olive oil

0g carbohydrates

Wondering what cooking oil to prioritize on a low-carb diet? Both dietitians say extra virgin olive oil is the stellar choice regardless of what type of eating plan someone is following. This is yet another food with zero carbs that’s good for the heart plus helps control chronic inflammation .

28. Avocado essential oil

0g carbohydrates

Cassetty says that another essential olive oil worth stocking in your kitchen will be avocado oil. Like olive oil, avocado oil doesn’t have any carbs but it is full of heart-healthy unsaturated fats. “ Avocado essential oil has also been studied for its health compounds, including polyphenol antioxidants. You can choose avocado oil when cooking at high temps or whenever you want a more neutral flavor, ” she says.

29. Pesto

1 tablespoon pesto = 2g carbohydrates

Cassetty says that will pesto is usually one associated with her favorite low-carb ways to amp up the flavor in her foods. You may whip up a delicious pesto in just a few minutes with fresh basil, Parmesan, pine nuts, lemon zest, salt and olive oil. Add it in order to seafood, meat, roasted veggies, zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.

30. Coconut aminos

1 tea spoon coconut aminos = 7g carbohydrates

Another way that Cassetty likes to add flavor to her food without majorly upping the carbs is with coconut aminos, which taste especially great in stir fry, steamed vegetables or salad. Coconut aminos have less sodium than soy sauce, which makes it the particularly good choice for those who are usually trying to watch their sodium intake.

Now that you have a list of nutrient-rich low-carb foods comes the fun part: Dreaming up all the ways you’re going to cook with them. After almost all, no eating plan is worth following if you aren’t enjoying what’s on your plate. The only question left is exactly what to experiment with first.