Wrap It Up- Sacrificing sandwiches and burgers is one of the toughest things about going low carb. But if you “think outside the bun,” you can still enjoy many of the flavors you love, just low carb. The solution? Substitute lettuce wraps for the bun on your burger or the bread on your turkey sandwich. You’ll drastically lower the carb content and still have something to grip.
Substitute Your Spaghetti- A spiralizer is the kitchen invention you never knew you needed-and it’s shockingly affordable, with many going for under $30. This nifty gadget can transform squash, zucchini, and other low-carb veggies into spaghetti (or other shapes), making a great substitute for that carb-heavy pasta you miss eating.
Replace Your Rice- Rice, like pasta, is a carb-heavy starch that’s omnipresent in many cuisines. But you don’t have to give up on Chinese or Indian food entirely just because you’re counting carbs. Try subbing in riced cauliflower. It’s got a similar texture and absorbency, and when it’s loaded up with curry or broccoli beef, you’ll barely notice a difference.
Switch Your Chips- Potato chips are one of those snacks that it’s really tough to let go of. If you’re craving that crunch, try kale chips, which offer the same snackability with fewer carbs and a host of other health benefits. You can even make your own by tossing chopped up kale in olive oil, separating the leaves on a cooking sheet, and throwing them in the oven until they crisp up.
Go with Protein for Breakfast- Even healthy breakfast cereals like granola and oatmeal are high in carbohydrates. But if you start your day with a protein, particularly eggs, you won’t get off on the wrong foot. Eating protein early in the day also kick-starts your digestive system and helps you start burning fat when you exercise.