Have you ever wondered if combining the health benefits of low carb and vegan lifestyles is possible? I’ve tried it, it is possible, and it can be delicious. It also helps you sustain energy and regulate blood sugar levels. I’m not referring to cutting carbs to the (keto diet) 20-50 carbs a day required to get your body into ketosis all day. However, these low-carb foods can help your body switch back and forth into fat-burning mode by eliminating excessive processed carbohydrates found in bread, pasta, and traditional desserts. At the same time, you maximize your nutritional intake with fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and legumes. If combined with a bit of intermittent fasting, for example, restricting your eating window to 9 or 12 hours a day, your body will have a much easier time burning fat and operating at optimal health.
Here are some of my favorite low-carb vegan foods. Please share some of yours so I can try adding them as well.
Low Carb Vegan Foods:
Cauliflower Rice:
I can’t say enough about this wonder food. Although not a secret, many of my friends still haven’t fully employed this resource. You can use it to replace any meal with rice, swap it out for half of your regular rice and eat as a 50/50 mix or try substituting it for pasta.
Mushrooms:
I know not everyone loves mushrooms the way I do, so feel free to skip ahead if you’re cringing. Sautéed mushrooms are an excellent base for a buddha bowl. They can serve as a “meat” replacement if you’re missing it.
Asparagus:
Grilled or lightly steamed are great options.
Broccoli:
If this one fuels childhood memories and makes you cringe, try tossing broccoli florets with olive oil and your favorite seasoning, then pop them in the oven on a cookie sheet to roast.
Zucchini:
Another low carb versatile vegetable for stir fry, grilling, or roasting
Spinach:
In addition to salads and sautés, I love throwing spinach into smoothies. My kids swear you can’t taste it.
These are my favorite, but there are 1,000 vegetables and many more low-carb possibilities. What are your favorite low-carb options?
