Best low carb snacks when you're on a diet

best-low-carb-snacks

Chips, cookies, ice cream, candy bars, crackers, and microwave popcorn are some of America’s most popular snack foods. But they're often packed with fats and carbs, with little nutritional value. What are your options if you are looking for a smart low-carb snack?

You could choose foods that are higher in fiber and/or important nutrients, feature carbohydrates with lower glycemic indexes, are balanced with some protein, and contain some of the more heart-healthy fats. That’s exactly what the following 10 low-carb snacks are all about.

My Favorite Low-Carb Snacks

Turkey and Cheese Roll-Ups

Cut one part-skim mozzarella cheese stick in half lengthwise. Roll about 1 ounce of sliced roasted turkey breast around half of a part-skim mozzarella cheese stick and repeat with the remaining cheese and turkey to make a total of two roll-ups.

Each serving contains: 3.5 grams carbohydrate, 0.3-gram fiber, 144 calories, 17 grams protein, 6.6 grams fat, 3.8 grams of saturated fat

Side Salad Topped with a Hard-Boiled Egg or Avocado

Top a typical side salad with a hard-boiled egg or 1/4 chopped avocado, drizzle with a teaspoon of extra virgin olive oil and 1-2 teaspoons of balsamic vinegar or 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinaigrette.

• Each serving (with egg) contains: 3 grams carbohydrate, 1 gram fiber, 146 calories, 11 grams protein, 10 grams fat, 3 grams saturated fat
• Each serving (with avocado) contains 6 grams carbohydrate, 4.4 grams fiber, 120 calories, 4 grams protein, 9 grams fat, 2 grams saturated fat

Large Artichoke

Cut artichoke in half (from the stem to the tip) and cut out the inedible thistle part of the center of the artichoke. Place in microwave-safe, covered container with 1/2 cup water and cook on high until tender throughout (about 6 minutes for one artichoke or 10 minutes for two). Enjoy with lemon juice or 2 teaspoons of canola oil or olive oil mayonnaise.

• Each serving (with lemon juice) contains: 17 grams carbohydrate, 9 grams fiber, 76 calories, 5.5 grams protein, .2 gram fat, .01 gram saturated fat
• Each serving (with mayonnaise) contains: 17 grams carbohydrate, 9 grams fiber, 106 calories, 5.5 grams protein, 3 grams fat, 0.1 grams saturated fat

Avocado and Shrimp Cocktail

• Toss 2 ounces of cooked thawed shrimp with 1/4 avocado (chopped) and a tablespoon of cocktail sauce.
• Each serving contains: 8.5 grams carbohydrate, 3.4 grams fiber, 161 calories, 13 grams protein, 7.6 grams fat, 1.2 grams saturated fat.

Typical fast-food Caesar salad with grilled chicken (no dressing)

Each serving contains: 12 grams carbohydrate, 3 grams fiber, 220 calories, 30 grams protein, 6 grams fat, 3 grams of saturated fat