The trend towards low-carb foods seems to have sticking power. It has been shown to significantly reduce hunger levels, leading to automatic weight loss without the need for calorie counting. In addition, eating carbohydrates has the most significant impact on our blood sugar and insulin levels. On the other hand, reducing carbohydrates intake lowers our sugar levels and insulin needs. High sugar levels play a part in almost all chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, dementia, cancer, and cardiovascular diseases. By lowering carbohydrates intake and taking low-carb foods, you can maintain and control blood sugar and insulin levels. This is incredibly beneficial for those battling diabetes (type one or two) and those with insulin resistance. Luckily, there’s an abundance of nutrient-dense, low-carb foods, and we’ll be mentioning some of them.

Types of carbohydrates

 There are primarily two types of carbohydrates, simple and complex carbohydrates.

Simple carbohydrates are broken down quickly by our body for energy. That means an excess of simple carbohydrates can easily be stored as fat. Examples include honey, dairy products, fruits, etc. On the other hand, complex carbohydrates are weighed down by other nutrients and fiber, and they take longer to digest. They are present in bread, pasta, some veggies like potatoes, etc. That said, they both end up turning into glucose when digested. Complex carbohydrates are an essential part of a balanced diet, and a complete absence of them can lead to digestive issues. 

Below are some low-carb foods that can help improve your health.

Eggs

We all love eggs. If not all, at least a considerable percentage of us do. Eggs are among the most nutritious and healthiest foods on the planet. Eggs contain amino acids, antioxidants, and healthy fat. They are also loaded with other nutrients, including some important ones for the brain and the eyes. One large hard-boiled egg(about 50g) contains less than one gram of carb and remains an excellent source of protein. Eggs are a secret weapon for weight loss and go with just about any meal you want.

Wild salmon

If you love taking fish, especially those caught in the wild, wild salmon is another protein-rich, low-carb food like ground chicken. Most of us probably consume canned fish and the likes, but it is really worth giving the wild salmon a try the next time you visit a good restaurant and the seasides. Some of these online stores also have sell wild salmons and are good provided they arrive on time. Unlike the chicken, though, wild salmon is an excellent source of omega-3s, a healthy fat that helps fight off metabolism-slowing inflammation. Omega-3s are also important for healthy arteries and the brain.

Shrimps

Shrimp is super versatile and perfect for low-carb dinners, keto meal prep, low-carb salad, and more. Interestingly, large crayfishes/crawfishes and shrimps look so much alike. It won’t be that difficult to differentiate between the two when you have both on your taste buds. Well, we’ll leave you to decide that. Shrimps have an impressive nutrition profile as it provides a high amount of certain nutrients, such as iodine, that aren’t abundant in many other foods. Shrimps also get their pink color from an antioxidant called astaxanthin, which is said to have skin and heart health benefits.

Strawberries

Berries are a popular choice for people lowering their carb intake. Fruits generally can be fairly rich in carbohydrates thanks to simple sugars: glucose and fructose. Strawberries are on the lower end of the carbohydrates spectrum. They’re very high in vitamin C, manganese, and various antioxidants. Strawberries can go with about anything, and you can use them for numerous delicious dishes. Blend them into your fruit juice, use them in making your cakes, or probably top your oatmeal or cereal with sliced strawberries for the perfect morning treat.

Avocados

An avocado is a low-carb fruit that is very nutritious thanks to its high amount of fiber and heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. They are technically fruits and happen to be very high in specific nutrients, especially fiber and potassium. As a result, they make just about anything better, from salads to smoothies and what have you. Smear avocados onto toast, mash into guacamole, or probably top your morning eggs with a couple slices.

Green beans

Green beans are technically legumes but are usually consumed similarly to vegetables. They are incredibly high in nutrients, including fiber, protein, vitamin C, vitamin K, magnesium, and potassium. Although green beans are not as low in carbohydrates as those above ground veggies, they can still work on a ketogenic diet.

Chicken

Chicken is among the world’s most popular meats. It is high in many healthful nutrients and also serves as an excellent source of protein. In addition, it is low in saturated fat compared to other meats, which can help maintain a healthy weight. However, if you’re on a low-carb diet, it may be a better choice to go for fattier cuts like the wings and thighs of chickens.

Mushrooms

Though they’re technically not plants, edible mushrooms are often categorized as vegetables. Fungi are considered a healthy food all-stars because they are a great source of potassium, which is vital for muscle health and recovery. In addition, they help lower blood pressure and decrease the effects of a high-sodium meal. In addition, they are low in calorie and fat-free. Just make sure you get your mushrooms from the right source, and you’re good.

Cucumber

The Cucumber is a popular vegetable with a mild flavor. It consists mainly of water with a small amount of Vitamin K. Cucumbers are low in calories and contains a good amount of water and soluble fiber, making them ideal for promoting hydration and aiding in weight loss.

Walnuts

Walnut is another delicious type of nut. They are low in carb and rich in heart-healthy fats. In addition, it contains various nutrients and is particularly high in alpha-linolenic acid(ALA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid. Including walnuts in your diet may promote weight loss and protect against heart diseases.