Strawberries are one of the most nutrient-dense and lowest carb fruits you can eat. A cup of strawberries contains only 6 grams of carbohydrates, but it is packed with vitamin C, manganese, antioxidants, and cancer-fighting compounds called glucosinolates. Plus, it only has 30 calories! Eggplant is another great low-carb option. A full cup of eggplant contains less than 5 grams of carbohydrates and is rich in nasunin, a compound that protects brain cells from oxidation.
Eggs are a convenient source of protein and contain 0.6 grams of carbohydrates and 6 grams of protein per egg. Don't forget to eat the yolk too, as it is packed with choline, an important nutrient for brain health. Green beans are another great low-carb option. A cup of steamed green beans contains 7 grams of carbohydrates and is rich in vitamin K, which contributes to bone health, healthy blood clotting, and may help prevent heart disease.
Olives are a great snack option for those on a low-carb diet. Eating two tablespoons of olives will cost you less than 1 gram of carbohydrates and provide you with the antioxidant oleuropein, which has been shown to lower cholesterol and prevent oxidative stress. Almonds are also a great low-carb snack option. One ounce provides you with less than 5 grams of carbohydrates and high amounts of biotin, a B vitamin important for metabolism, nerves and digestive health.
Chia seeds are another great low-carb option. An ounce provides you with 15 grams of carbohydrates and is loaded with magnesium, a crucial mineral for maintaining healthy blood pressure and overall better digestive health. Salmon is a satiating fish that provides you with zero carbohydrates and is high in omega-3 fatty acids, which help burn fat, make skin glow and fight inflammation. Shrimp is another great low-carb option.
Half a cup provides you with less than 1 gram of carbs and is also low in calories and high in protein. Shellfish also contains zinc, an important mineral in helping the immune system fight viruses. Tomatoes are also a great low-carb option. A medium tomato has less than 5 grams of carbohydrates and is rich in beta-carotene, a precursor of vitamin A, which helps the skin shine and strengthens the immune system. Reducing your carbohydrate intake allows you to eliminate these “extra options” from your day and reduce calories naturally.
Most meats are considered low in carbohydrates because most of them contain few or no carbohydrates. Dark chocolate is also a great low-carb option; 25% of its carbohydrates come from fiber which reduces the total net digestible carbohydrate content.
