What is a Low-Carb Diet? by Lynn Taylor, Jackie Termont, Silvia de la Peña

These days, there are hundreds of diet plans. One of the most popular diets that has been around for decades is the low-carb eating plan. In this eating plan, carbohydrates (carbs), especially simple carbs, are restricted while foods that are higher in fat and protein are not. High-sugar items such as soda, candy, desserts, fruit juices, as well as refined grains such as pasta, cereals and breads, and starchy vegetables such as potatoes and peas, are limited.

What is a Low-Carb Diet? Foods to Eat on a Low-Carb Eating Plan
Higher-protein foods are a big part of a low-carb eating plan. Lean meats such as chicken, turkey, fish, and shellfish are recommended, as well as, eggs and cheese. Healthy fats and oils such as olive oil, avocado oil, avocados, nuts, seeds, and olives are recommended. Not only are these foods low carb, but are thought to help you feel full longer. Most types of fruit are considered high in carbs, however, berries are usually the fruit of choice when it comes to the low-carb eating plan. Non-starchy vegetables are emphasized in low-carb eating plans.

Potential Health Benefits
The low-carb eating plan may have several potential health benefits, including weight loss, lower blood glucose (blood sugar) levels after eating, lower blood pressure, and reduction in triglycerides.

Is a low-carb eating plan right for you?
Interested in exploring a low-carb diet? Talk with your doctor or dietitian so they can help you set up a plan that’s best suited for your individual needs and health goals. 

For more kidney-friendly resources, please visit diabetes.org/kidney.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment. Consult your health care team regarding your specific diagnosis, treatment, diet, and health questions.



 This article is brought to you by DaVita, a proud sponsor of the Diabetes Food Hub®.
 

Related Articles

  • What You Need to Know About the Keto Diet

    What You Need to Know About the Keto Diet

    Despite its explosive popularity, there's a lot of confusion about what the ketogenic (keto) diet really is and whether or not it's good for people with diabetes. Diabetes Forecast dives in to find out what you need to know about the ketogenic diet. 

  • Ask the Experts: What is Carb Counting?

    Ask the Experts: What is Carb Counting?

    Carb counting is a meal-planning method that can help people with diabetes manage their blood glucose levels. If you have prediabetes or type 2 diabetes, carb counting can help you manage your blood glucose level and feel your best, whether or not you take any diabetes medications. If you have type 1 diabetes, carb counting can help you match your mealtime insulin dosage to the amount of carbs you are eating. Overall, carb counting can be a great tool, but it may not be for everyone. It takes a lot of work to find out how many carbs are in different foods, and you have to be diligent in keeping track of what you’re eating and adding up the carbs. Read on to learn more about what carb counting is and whether or not it’s right for you.

  • Shrimp & Cauliflower Grits Made Easy

    Shrimp & Cauliflower Grits Made Easy

    Follow along step by step with Chef Jenny and see exactly how easy it is to prepare this meal in this recorded cooking class video.

  • Watch: Chicken Stir-Fry Video

    Watch: Chicken Stir-Fry Video

    The simple chicken stir-fry recipe is the perfect way to make a healthy, diabetes-friendly and low-carb meal from whatever you might have in the fridge or pantry.

  • Best Diabetes-Friendly Snacks for Weight Loss

    Best Diabetes-Friendly Snacks for Weight Loss

    If losing some pounds and revamping eating habits is a lifestyle change you want to pursue this year, rethinking how you snack should be a part of your healthy eating game plan.

  • Everything You Need to Know About Radishes

    Everything You Need to Know About Radishes

    The radish is a powerhouse vegetable that packs a ton of flavor and nutrition into a tiny package. Whether you slice them thin and add them to your favorite salad or use them as a crunchy garnish for your tacos, radishes bring a fun and vibrant pop of color and texture to any dish. They’re also low in carbohydrates and high in fiber and vitamin C.

Recommended for You