A low-carb eating plan has been shown to be effective for helping people lose weight and improve their overall health. But this type of diet can be difficult to stick to, especially for those who are starting out and aren’t sure how to get started. In this article, we’ll explore some strategies to help you stick to your low-carb plan.
Set Realistic Goals
Before beginning any type of diet, it’s important to set realistic goals. Set daily and weekly goals such as reducing your carbohydrates intake by a certain percentage each week, or aiming to have only one “treat” meal per day. Doing so will give you something to focus on and aim for, making it easier to stick to your plan.
Plan Ahead
Planning ahead can help you stay on track and reach your goals. Meal plan for the week, and make double batches of recipes so you have balanced meals throughout the week. Stock your pantry with low-carb staples such as nuts, seeds, and low-carb vegetables.
Track Your Progress
Tracking your progress is essential for long-term success. Keep track of your daily carb intake, as well as your weight, body measurements, and other markers that indicate your progress. This will help you stay motivated and stay on track with your plan.
Focus on Nutrient-Dense Foods
Low-carb eating does not mean eating only proteins! Instead, focus on including nutrient-dense, low-carb vegetables such as:
- Leafy greens, such as spinach, kale, and collards
- Cruciferous vegetables, such as cauliflower and broccoli
- Mushrooms
- Cucumbers
- Tomatoes
These types of vegetables are low in carbohydrates and full of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, so be sure to add them to your meals to help increase your nutrient intake.
Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated while on a low-carb diet is essential. Water helps you to feel full and keeps your body functioning optimally. Make sure to aim for drinking at least 8-10 glasses of water per day.
Find Support
Having the right support system in place is key to success on any diet. Whether it’s a family member, friend, dietician, or online community, having someone to talk to and to keep you on track can make all the difference in helping you stick to your low-carb plan.
Following a low-carb diet doesn’t have to be difficult. It’s important to set realistic goals, plan ahead, track your progress, focus on nutrient-dense foods, stay hydrated, and find support to help you stay on plan. With these tips, you can be on your way to reaching your goals in no time.
What are some low-carb snacks that I can eat?
• Hard-boiled eggs
• Avocado with sea salt
• Cheese cubes
• A handful of unsalted nuts
• Cucumber slices with cream cheese
• Celery and peanut butter
• Low-carb yogurt with berries
• Olives
• Leftover chicken or tofu with spices
• Canned tuna
• Celery sticks with cream cheese or hummus
• Zucchini chips
• Kale chips
• Low-carb muffins or bread
• Veggie sticks with dip
• Low-carb protein bars
• Low-carb smoothies
• String cheese
• Celery and ranch dip
What are some low-carb snacks for diabetics?
1. Celery sticks with peanut butter
2. Hard boiled eggs
3. Greek yogurt with walnuts
4. Cheese cubes
5. Cottage cheese with chives
6. A handful of almonds or walnuts
7. Avocado slices with sea salt
8. Edamame
9. Sliced cucumbers with plain yogurt dip
10. Cauliflower roasted in olive oil and herbs
11. Plain non-fat Greek yogurt with berries
12. Celerysticks with cream cheese
13. Apple slices with nut butter
14. Low-carb smoothies
15. Zucchini chips with sea salt
What are some healthy low-carb snacks for diabetics?
1. Celery sticks with almond butter or hummus
2. Greek yogurt with walnuts and berries
3. Cucumber slices with guacamole
4. A few hard boiled eggs
5. Avocado slices with turkey
6. Walnuts and almonds
7. Cheese cubes
8. Kale chips
9. Smoked salmon with cucumber slices
10. Olives and cherry tomatoes on a skewer
11. Cottage cheese with bell peppers and tomatoes
12. Low-carb protein bars
13. String cheese
14. Low-carb muffins or bread
15. Zucchini chips with sea salt
What are some diabetes-friendly snacks?
1. Air-popped popcorn
2. Whole grain crackers with hummus or nut butter
3. Greek yogurt topped with fresh fruit or unsweetened dried fruit
4. Edamame
5. Hard boiled eggs
6. Celery sticks and nut butter
7. Roasted chickpeas
8. Avocado toast
9. Almonds or walnuts
10. String cheese and whole grain crackers
11. Cottage cheese with vegetables
12. Veggie chips and hummus
13. Low-carb smoothies
14. Kale chips
15. Apple slices with peanut butter
What are some examples of healthy snacks for people with diabetes?
1. A handful of almonds or walnuts
2. An apple or banana with a tablespoon of peanut butter
3. A hard-boiled egg
4. Edamame beans
5. Cottage cheese and fruit
6. Trail mix made with nuts, seeds, and dried fruit
7. Kale chips
8. String cheese
9. Greek yogurt with berries
10. Hummus and carrots or celery sticks.
