A low-carb diet can
have many health benefits. It can help keep weight down and lowers the chance
of developing illnesses such as diabetes. However, it can be easier said than
done. Try following our 7 easy ways to keep carbohydrates in your diet to a
minimum.
1.
Cut
out Bread
Whilst bread might be a staple in many diets, it is
often low in fiber and high in carbohydrates, this is particularly true of
white bread. If you are trying to decrease your carbohydrate intake, the
simplest and most effective way is to eliminate bread.
Take home message: Whole grain bread contains
nutrients but is also incredibly high in carbohydrates and you can ingest these
nutrients through other foods.
2.
Eat Plenty of Protein
Eating a healthy, high protein source at each meal
can make it easier to reduce those carbs. Protein such as meat, poultry, eggs
and nuts not only add flavor and variety to meals, but they also make you feel
fuller for longer, therefore you will be less likely to reach for an extra
piece of bread or high-carb dessert.
Take home message: Eating a healthy protein at each
meal is an easy way to lower your carbohydrate intake.
3.
Switch
Potatoes and Bread for Vegetable
When given the choice between potatoes and bread or
vegetables, particularly when eating out, always opt for vegetables. Where
possible, make sure the vegetables are non-starchy such as carrots, peas or
corn.
Take home message: Eating out can be a challenge, so
always ask for vegetables instead of a carb-loaded side.
4.
Make
Sure Your Dairy Intake is Low Carbohydrate
Dairy products are very tasty and very healthy, but
some are loaded with carbohydrates. Fruit flavored yogurt and frozen yogurt is
often high in sugar and carbohydrates. Stick with Greek yogurt and cheese for a
low carb alternative. Take home message - remember to choose dairy that is low
carb to get the full benefits of dairy products without any unwanted
carbohydrates.
Take home message: Remember to choose dairy that is low in carbohydrates to get the full benefits of dairy products without any unwanted carbohydrates.
5.
Eat
low Carbohydrate Snacks
You may be doing a great job keeping carbohydrates
to a minimum when it comes to your main meals, but those snacks can add up.
Treats like pretzels and chips are loaded with unwanted carbs. Instead, opt for
cheese, almonds or walnuts.
Take home message: Keeping your carbohydrate intake
in check when it comes to snacks is just as important as managing it during
main meals.
6.
Have
Eggs for Breakfast
Many breakfast foods such as bread and cereals are
high in carbohydrates. Eggs can provide a tasty breakfast meal without loading
you up on carbs. They are also full of protein, just be sure to skip the toast.
Take home message: Eggs are a high protein, low
carb, breakfast alternative if you are trying to control your carbohydrate
intake.
7.
Skip
the Fruit Juice
Fruit juice contains little fiber and is full of
sugar and carbohydrates, much like any other sugar-filled beverage. The best
thing is to stick to water, but if you want to add a little extra flavor, try
adding a slice of lemon or lime to spice things up a little.
Take home message: Just because it says 'fruit
juice' doesn't mean it is better for you than any other sugary drink; it's best
to stick to water.
Reducing your carbohydrate intake can be difficult,
but hopefully, these steps will help you to form healthy habits when it comes
to implementing a low-carb diet.
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