If you want to feel your best or simply want to slim down, it's crucial to watch your carb intake. This means steering clear of junk foods loaded with processed carbs and refined sugars. These goodies may taste amazing, but they can do a lot of damage to your health. Such as causing inflammation, weight gain, diabetes, obesity, and nerve damage. So, If you want to avoid feeling like a hot mess, it's time to ditch the junk and opt for healthier options.
In today's post, we'll discuss minimal carb and sugar superfoods! These nutritious foods will help regulate your blood sugar levels, give you a natural energy boost, and may also help lower your blood pressure. Ready to turn over a new, healthier leaf? Then keep reading to learn more.
Let's start with a cruciferous veggie fix!
#1 CRUCIFEROUS VEGGIE
Broccoli, kale, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, and spinach are superfoods that pack a punch of nutrients without a lot of carbs. These leafy greens are a must for anyone following a low-carb diet, as they do not contain starches like potatoes. These veggies are also loaded with fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals like vitamin C, folic acid, vitamin A, iron, calcium, copper, selenium, and zinc that support good health. These vegetables contain secondary metabolites that reduce the risk of certain colon cancers. This is thanks to a compound called Sulforaphane that helps protect cells from oxidative stress and removes toxins from the body. Sulforaphane can also lead to improved cognitive function and a reduced risk of heart disease. These superfoods are versatile, and you can easily incorporate them into various dishes, from salads and stir-fries to smoothies and soups. Cruciferous veggies are the way to go if you’re looking to go green and keep your carb intake in check.
Next, make eggs the staple of your diet.
#2 EGGS
Eggs are a nutritional powerhouse packed with a variety of essential nutrients. One large egg contains about half a gram of carbs and 6 grams of protein. Protein is vital for building and repairing tissues and producing enzymes and hormones, and it helps you to stay full and satisfied, supporting weight loss efforts. Eggs are also a good source of vitamins A, D, E, and K. Vitamin A is essential for vision, immune function, and cell growth. Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium and maintain strong bones. Vitamin K is required for healthy bones and blood clotting, while vitamin E is a potent antioxidant that aids in protecting cells from oxidative stress. Eggs also contain minerals like iron, zinc, and selenium. Iron helps transport oxygen throughout the body, while zinc controls your immune function and wound healing. Selenium is an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage and is essential for brain and nerve function and liver health. In addition to these nutrients, eggs are a powerhouse of lutein and zeaxanthin, two antioxidants that may help protect the eyes from damage. So next time you crack open an egg, remember that it's not just a tasty breakfast food – it's also packed with nutrients that can support your weight loss goals.
It's time to move over boring old superfoods – there's a new player in town, and it's called chocolate!
#3 CHOCOLATE
Yes, it's true – the cocoa in dark chocolate is packed with flavanols that can help lower hypertension, reduce the risk of heart disease, and improve insulin sensitivity. The antioxidant properties of flavanols reduce oxidative stresses and improve your health. That's why some people even call it a super fruit. Many chocolate products have enough carbs to knock you away from your health goals. If you're looking for a chocolaty indulgence that won't derail your low-carb diet, opt for dark chocolate with a high cocoa content. A 1-ounce serving of 70% cocoa chocolate contains 13 grams of carbohydrates but also packs 4 grams of fiber, 12 grams of fat, and about 3 grams of protein. Ensure you read labels carefully and choose brands sweetened with low-calorie sweeteners. We know chocolate is tempting, so remember that chocolate is still a treat, so enjoy it in moderation. Happy snacking!
Have you heard of shirataki noodles?
#4 SHIRATAKI NOODLES
These little wonders are a game-changer if you want to enjoy a tasty, noodle-y dish without blowing your diet. That's because shirataki noodles are made from a viscous fiber called glucomannan. It’s full of health benefits, including reducing glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood pressure levels and supporting weight loss. Additionally, they may exhibit anti-diabetic, anti-obesity, laxative, prebiotic, and anti-inflammatory effects. It may also help to regulate metabolism and prevent chronic diseases. Shirataki noodles are famous in many Asian and European markets and are considered healthier than other store-bought noodles. Shirataki noodles contain less than 1 gram of net carbs and only 15 calories per serving. They come in all shapes and sizes, so you can use them to recreate all your favorite noodle dishes. You can find shirataki noodles at many health food stores or online. They usually come packaged in water and must be rinsed and drained before cooking. They have a slightly chewy texture, but you can easily flavor them with your favorite sauces and seasonings.
So why not give them a try and see if you can "Noodle" your way to better health?
#5 COCONUT OIL
Saturated fats have gotten a bad rap over the years, but there's some evidence that they can be good for us – and coconut oil is a shining example. This oil has zero carbs, and in several studies, coconut oil reduced abdominal fat, improved blood lipid levels, and even helped people lose weight and belly fat.
How is this possible? One reason may be the presence of medium-chain triglycerides or MCTs in coconut oil. These fats are absorbed directly by the liver and converted into ketones, which can help decrease calorie intake and increase energy levels. Some research suggests that MCTs can improve the quality of life and cognitive function in those with neurological disorders like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. So don't be afraid to add some coconut oil or MCT oil to your diet – it just might be the tasty and healthy boost you’ve been searching for!
Are you a fan of seafood?
#6 SEAFOOD
If so, you're in luck! Fish and shellfish are delicious. Most types of fish are virtually carb-free. They're also packed with nutrients like B vitamins, potassium, and selenium. Shellfish, such as shrimp and crabs, are also low in carbs, but be aware that other kinds, like oysters and octopus, may contain more. The benefits of fish and shellfish go beyond just their carb counts. Fatty fish like salmon, sardines, and mackerel are high in omega-3 fats, which can lower insulin levels and improve insulin sensitivity if you are overweight or obese. Research also suggests regular fish consumption enhances brain health and reduces the risk of certain diseases.
So don't be shy about incorporating more seafood into your diet – the American Heart Association recommends adults consume 2 to 3 servings per week for optimal health. Just try not to have too much meat or seafood at any one meal, as this can decrease your ketone levels. Bon appétit!
#7 MEAT & POULTRY
Meat and poultry are also on the list of low-carb foods. Meat and poultry are essential for a good reason! These protein-rich foods contain no carbs but are loaded with B vitamins and potassium. They're also an excellent source of high-quality protein, which can help preserve muscle mass during periods of low carbohydrate intake. These animal products are also unique sources of nutrients like vitamin B12, iron, creatine, taurine, carnosine, and DHA – all of which have been linked to various health benefits. And if you're looking to improve your cholesterol levels, one study found that a diet high in fatty meat may lead to higher levels of "Good" (HDL) cholesterol compared to a low-fat, high-carb diet. Consider grass-fed and pasture-raised options to get the most out of your meat and poultry. These animals are typically richer in omega-3 fats and conjugated linoleic acid than grain-fed. Meat from grass-fed animals tends to have healthier ratios of omega-3 to omega-6 fats and higher levels of antioxidants. So enjoy that juicy steak or roasted chicken – just be sure to avoid overloading to keep your ketone levels in check, just like seafood.
Now, it's essential to choose wisely regarding nuts and seeds.
#8 NUTS & SEEDS
Some nuts, like almonds, macadamia nuts, pecans, and walnuts, are lower in carbs. All these nuts are high in healthy fats and fiber, which can help keep you full and satisfied. They're also a good source of nutrients like vitamin E, magnesium, and zinc. Seeds like chia seeds and flaxseeds are also low in carbs and make a great addition to a low-carb diet. Chia seeds are also high in fiber and contain essential nutrients like calcium and phosphorus that strengthen your bones, while flaxseeds are rich in lignans, which have anti-inflammatory effects. While nut and seed oils can be high in healthy fats, they also contain high inflammatory omega-6s. For this reason, it's best to consume whole or freshly ground nuts and seeds rather than oils. In general, it's a good idea to mix up your nut and seed intake to get various nutrients. Just be mindful of portion sizes, as nuts and seeds are high in calories and can easily lead to overeating if you're not careful.
Lastly, your body can also benefit from eating some avocados.
#9 AVOCADOS
Avocados contain healthy fats, fiber, potassium, and B vitamins. Research has shown regularly consuming avocados helps reduce "Bad" cholesterol levels and improve your heart health. In one study, an increase in avocado consumption led to a 22% decrease in "Bad" LDL cholesterol and triglycerides and an 11% increase in "Good" HDL cholesterol. Now, one-half of a medium avocado contains around 9 grams of carbs, but don't let that scare you - 7 of those grams are from fiber, which means each half has only 2 grams of net carbs. So go ahead and enjoy that creamy goodness guilt-free. And if you're not a fan of avocados, you can still get in on the goodness by using avocado oil in your cooking and baking. This oil is high in monounsaturated fat, is stable enough to withstand high heat, and can improve cholesterol levels. So next time you're on a low-carb diet, remember the power of avocados. These little green wonders are packed with nutrients and can do your body some serious good. Plus, they make everything taste rich and creamy.
What's not to love? Are you still looking to improve your health through your diet? Then don't underestimate the power of protein! Making protein your number one dietary priority can help you reach your health goals. Are you still trying to figure out where to start? Don't worry; click on 08 Health Benefits and 06 Side Effects | Protein Powder or 24 High Protein Foods That You Should Eat Regularly. Go ahead. Click one, or better yet, read both and know which foods to eat to load up on proteins. Which low-carb foods do you enjoy the most? Let us know in the comments below.
The information I provided in this blog is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. You should never use content in my writing as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or another qualified clinician. Please consult a medical professional or healthcare provider if indicated for medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment. I am not liable for risks or issues associated with using or acting upon the information in this blog. Thank you.