Low-Carb Alternatives for your Favorite Foods

So, you’ve made the leap. You’ve jumped on the low-carb bandwagon. Whether you’re on the Keto, Paleo, or Whole 30 path, one thing is likely on your mind: how will you sustain such a dramatic lifestyle change?

If you talk to people that have taken a ‘fad diet’ and used it to transform their bodies and eating habits for the long term, you’ll likely notice that a common theme emerges. Most people that have changed for the better – and for good – share that they are able to do so because they choose not to deprive themselves entirely of the foods they especially love. Low-carb enthusiasts can find new ways to experience the foods that bring them joy, by adjusting or finding recipes that utilize diet-approved ingredients.

If you are new to the low-carb lifestyle, you may be struggling with ways to enjoy your new diet without eating foods that will sabotage your health goals. Here are some suggestions to get you started on your journey, organized by mealtime!

Breakfast

If you are used to eating boxed cereal, oatmeal, toast, waffles, or other high-carb breakfast foods, switching to low-carb breakfasts might be difficult at first. Consider trying an entirely new breakfast routine that includes eggs, sausage, and fresh fruit. “Bulletproof” coffee, made with collagen powder, ghee, MCT or coconut oil, and almond milk will give you an energy boost and help you stay full longer. You can also substitute almond, coconut, and/or tapioca flour for white flour in many recipes for low-carb pancakes, waffles, and muffins.

Lunch

Instead of bread or tortillas, try using lettuce leaves to wrap your sandwich or taco ingredients. Substitute almond crackers for regular ones, and eat them with sardines or tunafish for added protein. Look up recipes for how to make crustless quiche, or make ‘egg cups’ in silicone muffin liners for an easy-to-transport meal.

Dinner

There are a lot of low-carb alternatives for popular dinner items. Try cauliflower rice and cauliflower-crust pizza instead of their high-carb siblings! Zucchini noodles and spaghetti squash substitute well for pasta; pair them with home-made meat sauce for a delicious treat.

Dessert

Many new dieters think that there isn’t room in their new lifestyles for desserts, but they are wrong! Search online for recipes for dark chocolate-dipped almond-butter cups and alternative-flour cookies. Tapioca or chia pudding with fresh fruit on top also makes an incredible after-dinner treat! Want a nightcap to end your day? Consider drinking tequila or a glass of red wine instead of higher-carb alcohols like beer or mixed drinks.

Going low-carb doesn’t have to be torture! Help sustain your new lifestyle change by incorporating foods you love – or close substitutes – in moderation. Try getting creative with it, and remember that “new and different” can be as tasty as – or tastier than – what you’re used to.