What to Eat on a High Protein Low Carb Diet

Following a high-protein, low-carb diet has become a popular method of losing weight. The founder of this type of diet is Dr. Robert Atkins. His plan for losing weight, called the Atkins diet, has been around for many years. Scoffed at by some due to its low content of vitamins, this diet, which is high in protein and low in carbohydrates, has nevertheless proven itself as an effective weight loss method for some dieters. The following is a guide pertaining to the Atkins diet.

How It Works

According to Dr. Robert Atkins, when carbohydrate consumption has stopped, so does the production of glucose. As this happens, the body switches into a parallel form of energy metabolism called ketosis. He explains, "Ketosis is the reversal of the biological pathways that are involved in obesity." When the body switches over to ketosis, fat begins to be burned for fuel and eliminated through bodily processes.

Meat

This type of diet is not well-suited for a vegetarian, as eating an unlimited amount of animal protein is encouraged. Although all types of meat are okay to eat on a high-protein low-carb diet, lean sources of protein may be best for your body. Nevertheless, when following this type of diet all types of meat, fish, and chicken are allowed.

Dairy

Although cheese does contain very small amounts of carbohydrate, most cheeses are allowed on a high-protein, low-carb diet. Cheddar, mozzarella, Swiss, cream cheese, and cottage cheese may be eaten in unlimited amounts.

Another great source of dairy protein is eggs. Meat, eggs, and cheese are the cornerstone of this type of diet. Eggs may also be eaten in unlimited amounts; however, take note of what type of fat is used to cook them. On the Atkins diet, butter is allowed and margarine is not. All vegetable oils are okay to eat on this diet.

Vegetables

Most types of fruits and vegetables contain a moderate amount of carbohydrate and therefore are not encouraged on a high-protein, low-carb diet. However, there are some vegetables that have a carbohydrate content which is low enough to be allowed. These include broccoli, cauliflower, spinach, zucchini, summer and spaghetti squash, string beans, snow peas, okra, and eggplant. As eating fruit is not recommended, taking vitamin supplements is encouraged.

Salads made from romaine, spinach, or iceberg lettuce are encouraged. Eggs and any type of meat can be added to the salad, as well as any of the following components: radicchio, cucumber, peppers, celery, alfalfa sprouts, mushrooms, or olives. But think about what type of dressing you put on your salad. Even dressings advertised as low-fat may have a high carbohydrate content. Choose the salad dressing with the lowest carbohydrate amount instead of the lowest amount of fat.

Foods to Avoid

Foods that are NOT allowed include any type of refined or processed sugar, any type of bread or cereal product, and any type of fruit or fruit juice. Milk is also not allowed.

When you have a sweet tooth, look for products that are made with an artificial sweetener. Due to the popularity of the low-carb lifestyle, many snacks and foods are available on the market with low-carb and high-protein diets in mind. Just remember to check the label and make sure the product doesn't contain more than 5 grams of carbohydrate.