22 Best Low-Carb Snacks
No Assembly Required
1. Avocado
Unlike most fruits well-known as carbohydrate sources, avocados are notorious for their fat content, specifically the heart-healthy monounsaturated fat. Aside from their healthy fats, they offer high fiber and potassium that supports digestive and heart health. The unique fruit is also rich in folate, copper, and vitamins B6, C, E, and K.
2. Beef Jerky
Filled with protein, iron and zinc, beef jerky is a power-packed snack to keep on hand. But if limiting animal meats or following a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle, plant-based jerkies are likewise a handy on-the-go snack option.
3. Cheese Sticks
Portable, packed with protein and calcium, and supplying under a gram of carb, cheese sticks are a convenient and nutritious snack option to keep on hand.
4. Cottage Cheese
A ½ cup serving of low-fat cottage cheese supplies a mere 80 calories, 3 grams of carb, and a whopping 14 grams of protein! Enjoy as is or pair with one of these 10 low-carb fruits, including peaches, grapefruits, and berries.
5. Dark Chocolate
Whereas chocolate is not always clumped into a low-carb snack, going for a dark chocolate product boasts with healthy fats and antioxidants. But to keep sugar in check, go for products with minimal added sugars and stick to a small portion and truly appreciate the flavors.
6. Edamame
Not only is edamame (or soybean) notable for its plant-based protein and fiber content, but also full of both monounsaturated (MUFAs) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). Simply enjoy edamame boiled with a sprinkle of sea salt for a nutritious snack.
7. Greek Yogurt
Supplying healthy probiotics and protein, going Greek with yogurt is highly beneficial. But to reap the most benefits, opt for a plain product to reduce the risk of added sugars.
8. Hard-Boiled Eggs.
Whether purchased from the store or prepared in bulk, keep hard-boiled eggs on hand for an easy and on-the-go, low-carbohydrate snack option!
9. Cow’s Milk
A single 8-ounce glass of milk supplies a mere 12 grams of carb and eight grams of protein. And although choosing low-fat milk and dairy products was encouraged not long ago, conflicting recommendations suggest whole and full-fat may offer weight control and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes. Even aside from the fat content, milk and dairy products are a significant source of calcium and protein.
10. Nuts
Nuts such as pecans and macadamia nuts are a low-carb snack favorite, along with supplying monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. But to keep calories in check, stick to an ounce or small palmful.
11. Popcorn
Rather than grabbing for that bag of chips during a snack attack, nosh on popcorn when that craving strikes. However, it is important to stray away from the salt-packed and butter-drenched kernels and opt for air-popped popcorn.
12. Olives
Ten olives supply an approximate three grams of carb and provides oleic acid, a type of monounsaturated acid shown to reduce the risk of heart disease and inflammation. But aside from its MUFA content, olives may play a role in reducing bone loss and combatting against inflammation.
13. Tuna
Canned or pouched tuna makes a convenient low-carb snack options and offers protein and healthy fat. To reduce unwanted fat calories, select tuna soaked in water rather than oil. Also look for the blue Certified Sustainable food label, BPA-free indication on packaging labels, and “light” or “white” tuna products that are naturally low in mercury.
Simple Low-Carb Snacks
14. Ants On a Log
Bring back that childhood classic by smearing favorite nut butter into the hollow area of the celery stalk and sprinkling with raisin “ants.”
15. Applesauce
Instead of going for a store-bought applesauce filled with added sugar, corn syrup, and other preservatives, prepare a nutritious homemade and naturally-sweetened applesauce to curb that sweet tooth.
16. Carrots and Ranch
Carrots make a satiating and nutrient-rich snack, especially when paired with this Greek yogurt ranch dip ample in protein and flavor.
17. Edamole
For a protein-packed rendition of guacamole, swap out avocados for edamame! Nix the carb-laden chips and dip edamole with carrot sticks or bell pepper slices.
18. Garlic Hummus Cucumber Cups
Ditch the pitas and nosh on low-carb roasted garlic hummus in cucumber cups. You can also munch on the hummus with carrot sticks and other favorite veggies.
19. Greek Yogurt Parfait
Offer crunch and natural sweetness to your Greek yogurt by layering it with fresh berries, favorite nuts and seeds, and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
20. Kale Chips
Craving chips but not the carbs that often comes with it? Swap out that chip bag with a bunch of kale! Simply preheat oven to 350°F and line baking sheet with parchment paper. Remove the kale leaves from the stems, tear into bite-sized pieces, and wash and dry thoroughly. Drizzle kale with olive oil and sprinkle with seasoning salt and other favorite seasonings. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until edges are browned.
21. Trail Mix
While nuts are a nutritious low-carb snack on their own, add a little sweetness and variety by mixing them up shredded coconut, banana chips, dark chocolate shavings, and other favorite trail mix-ins.
22. Tuna Salad
Rev up that canned tuna by mixing a 5-ounce can of wild albacore tuna with a small avocado, diced carrots and celery, a tablespoon of lemon juice, and salt and pepper to taste. Consume as is or dip with sliced bell peppers, cucumbers slices, or carrot sticks.
