What is a Low-Carb Diet?

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.

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.

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®.

December 2022

Lower Carb Veggie Rich

How Does Food Impact Blood Glucose?

Whether you have recently been diagnosed with diabetes or prediabetes, or have been managing it for years, you probably know that what you eat has a big impact on your blood glucose.
What is Intuitive Eating?

It seems every year there’s a new fad diet that everyone is talking about. But recently non-diet approaches like “Intuitive Eating” or “Mindful Eating” have gained in popularity. What do these terms mean, and how do they work?
Weeknight Fix!

This quick and easy dish from Designed for One, by Nancy S. Hughes, is the perfect lunch or quick weeknight meal for 1 or 2.
What is the Best Diet for Diabetes?

If diet is so important for managing diabetes, surely there is one perfect diet that everyone with diabetes should follow, right? The media, the internet, your Facebook feed, and even your Aunt Judy all have opinions about the correct diet for diabetes. So, what’s the answer? Every year, U.S. News surveys popular diets and eating patterns—including keto, Mediterranean, vegan, DASH, and others—and then reviews the scientific evidence to compile their annual list of best diets for diabetes. This year's results may just surprise you.
Carb-Conscious Meal Makeovers

Getting a diagnosis of diabetes or prediabetes does not mean that you have to remove all carbohydrate foods from your diet! Depending on your current eating habits, reducing your carb intake, or making some smart swaps, may help manage your blood glucose without cutting out your favorite foods.
Is Everything But Green Food Bad for You?

Have you just been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes? Been told to modify your diet and lose weight? How was your first trip to the market post diagnosis? You wouldn’t be alone if you were frustrated and felt that you had to put back every package of food you loved because the label revealed it was too high in carbs or fat—and that everything but green food was bad for you. But that’s not true.

Recommended for You