Foods to Avoid on a Low Carb Diet

Carbohydrates are essential for your body to function properly, especially high-fiber foods such as beans and whole grains. But some carbohydrates are better than others.

Why Go Low-Carb?

Most people attracted to a low-carbohydrate diet want to lose weight. Avoiding white sugar and white flour products, which are high in carbohydrates, is good for your general health.

The White Foods

Avoid white bread, white potatoes, pastries, sugary drinks, and sweets, which are high in carbohydrates.

Some Vegetables

Vegetables are essential for good nutrition but there are some you should avoid on a low-carb diet: white potatoes, corn, carrots and peas. Suitable low-carb vegetables include leafy greens, summer squash and broccoli.

Some Fruit

A low-carb diet doesn't mean you have to give up fruit. Fruits with less sugar content include peaches, berries and cantaloupe. High-carbohydrate fruits include watermelon, mangoes and bananas, so eat these occasionally.

Processed Food

Most processed foods are loaded with chemicals. It is wise to avoid any treated foods when on a low-carbohydrate diet. Carefully read labels as there is often a lot of hidden sugar in processed foods.