Snack Food on a Low Carb Diet

When you are following a low-carb diet, you will be eating the least amount of carbohydrates that you can throughout the day. This means that when you are in need of a snack, you will need to find low carb, high-protein selections that provide you with a nutritious boost of energy. Sometimes this is just as easy as opening a can of tuna and digging in. You could also substitute oily chips and fattening chocolate bars with hard boiled egg-whites or a slice of cold chicken, both ideal snack foods for a low carb diet.

When you are adhering to this diet, you should keep in mind that your body does need a certain number of carbohydrates to properly function. Carbs serve as the main source of energy for muscles and other processes of the body. If you intend on working out a lot, you should not totally eliminate carbohydrates from your diet.

For the most part, you will need to focus on eating a balanced diet consisting of lean protein; simple carbs like raw veggies and fruits; as well as whole grain pasta and whole grain rice. This ensures that your body receives all of the nutrients and energy that keeps you in tip-top shape and health. Below are some of the best snacks that you can grab or prepare when you need something to tide you over until your next low-carb meal.

Low-Carb Diet Snack Foods

1) Beef Jerky
One ounce of beef jerky contains about 70 calories and 1 gram of fat. There is a healthy dose of 11 grams of protein. When choosing your jerky, shop at a health food store because the brands sold at most stores contain tons of salt. Keep in mind: salt retains water.

2)  Egg Whites
One egg white offers 15 calories. This small energy booster is fat and cholesterol-free; and also provides 4 grams of protein. For a great mini-meal, toss two or three in a pan; add peppers and onions for a tasty, quick omelet.

3) Cottage Cheese and Fruit
Try eating one-half cup of 2% cottage cheese. This treat contains an average of 16 grams of protein, as well as only 102 calories and 2 grams of fat. Mixing this treat with fruit provides it with extra flavor and delight.

4) Tuna
Tuna offers a good source of protein, containing about 25 grams per can. One can also contains 111 calories and is a fat-free selection. Keep in mind that you have to eat it raw and forgo the mayonnaise.

5) Protein Bars

Try choices such as Designer Whey Protein Bars. Each 75-gram bar contains 30 grams of protein, only 6 grams of carbs and 5 grams of fat. Make sure you read the back of the packaging carefully in order to avoid hidden pitfalls.

6) Shakes

Try making your own high-protein shake. A recipe to consider:

Ingredients

2 cups natural soy milk with no sugar

3 egg whites

1 banana (Or another fruit of your choice.)

1 tablespoon natural peanut butter

2 tablespoons flax powder or 2 teaspoons flax seed oil

1/3 cup rolled oats

Directions

1) Blend together and serve.

7) Lentils
These can be used for a protein boost snack.

8) Peanut Butter

One tablespoon of peanut butter contains about 4 grams of protein, 8 grams of fat and 95 calories. A great snack idea is to spread some peanut butter on a slice of whole-wheat bread and top with banana slices.

9) Oatmeal
Oatmeal is known to possess a nice balance of protein and good carbohydrate. One packet of instant oatmeal contains 5 grams of protein, 105 calories and 2 grams of fat. For a nice flavor, try adding cinnamon.

Other snack ideas include:

String Cheese

Apple Slices

Grapes

Dried Fruit

Shrimp with Cocktail Sauce

Oranges

Celery Sticks and Peanut Butter

Hummus

Low-Fat Yogurt

Baby Carrots

Cherry Tomatoes

Cucumber with Sugar-Free Dressing or Dip

Pork Rinds

Oysters

Bacon Strips

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