No Carb Diet Food List

Carbs or carbohydrates form a major component of our daily lives. However, when we decide to lose weight, the first suggestion we are given is to eliminate carbs from our diet or to go on no carbohydrates diet.

The reason for this is that carbohydrates take the form of sugar and starch in our body which are the major causes of weight gain. While carbohydrates are an essential constituent of our daily diet, carbs taken in excess can have damaging effects on our body.

If you have decided to go on a no carb diet or low carb diet, then it is extremely important to get informed about this diet. The food list mentioned below, will help you eat the right foods.

There are two basic types of carbohydrates - simple carbohydrates and complex carbohydrates. Simple carbohydrates, also known as monosaccharides, are easy-to-digest carbs that are generally found in fruits, dairy products, processed foods like pastas, and white sugar. On the other hand, complex carbohydrates are difficult to digest and are found in legumes, whole grain breads, brown rice, and vegetables. Complex carbs provide you with energy and are more filling.

When it comes to losing weight, a no carb diet food plan is common in many well-known diets, the Atkins diet being the perfect example which focuses on no carb foods that are high in proteins and fiber. This is the reason why rice, potatoes, pastas, and fruits are strictly prohibited in these plans.

Spices: Just because you are on a no carb diet, it does not mean that you must have bland food. Some spices, dressings, herbs and pickles can be included in this list. For example peppers, dills, oregano, turmeric, sage, and thyme.

Butter: Most dairy products except milk are no carb foods. Butter or margarine can be consumed when on a no carb diet. However be careful that you do not consume too much, as it contains 80 %.

Eggs: Eggs are a key constituent of no carb breakfast foods. They have no carbs and are rich in protein, amino acids, choline, and tryptophan. Eggs can be consumed in any form, but the best way is eating it either boiled or poached.

Beef: Most meats, including beef, are very high in iron, vitamins, and minerals and contain no carbs. You can eat beef prepared in any way, like hamburger patties, steak, bottom roast and ribs. They are all carb free.

Poultry: Poultry like chicken and turkey can be included in a carb free diet. They contain no carbs and are a great source of protein. You can have it grilled, boiled or steamed.

Liquids: One of the most basic things in any no-carb diet food list is liquids. No carb drinks include water, tea, black coffee, coconut water, and diet soda. Water is very essential for your health. It is very important to have at least 8 glasses of water everyday especially when you are on a no carb diet as it keeps you hydrated and helps your body with digestion.

Oils: Most oils like corn oil, soybean oil, peanut oil, walnut oil etc have no carbohydrates. But you have to remember not to use oil in excess because oil contains fat which ultimately defeats the purpose of going on a diet.

Fish: Fish, especially salmon, Alaskan halibut, sardines, anchovies, trout and mackerel all contain no carbs and are great sources of proteins. Besides having no carbs, grilled fish is very filling, is tasty and contains almost no fats.

Cheese: Another option amongst no carb diet foods to eat is cheese. There are different kinds of cheese that have no carbs like Gruyeres, Cheddar, Fontina and Muenster. But it's better not to have more than 4 oz of cheese per day.

Vegetables: While most vegetables contain carbs, there are certain vegetables like spinach, lettuce, celery, and bok choy which contain no carbs. Try and include at least one of these vegetables in your diet everyday.

Before you go on a no carb diet plan, it is advisable to consult a doctor for no carb diet side effects. Also, research has shown, that these kinds of diets should only be done for a certain period or till you attain a certain weight.

Following this as your daily diet can lead to harmful effects. In everyday life it is very necessary to follow a balanced diet.