Low carb foods are a great way to maintain your weight loss goals or to start a healthy eating plan. The key to a successful low carb diet is planning your meals and snacks around your health and wellness goals.

Vegetables are one of the best low-carb options, especially leafy greens and cruciferous vegetables. They have a high fiber content, which can help you feel full. They also contain many nutrients you might not get enough of on a typical American diet, including vitamins A and C, potassium, phosphorus, iron, calcium and folate.

Fruits are another good choice because they have a lot of fiber, which helps slow the digestion of carbohydrates and keeps them from passing into your bloodstream quickly. However, you may want to limit your fruit intake to a few pieces a day, depending on how many carbs you are trying to avoid.

Eggs are a great source of protein, and they also have a wide range of other beneficial nutrients. They also have a small amount of carbs, making them an excellent addition to a low-carb meal or snack.

Beans are a popular low-carb food and can be eaten as a side or an ingredient in a variety of recipes. They are a great source of protein, fiber and healthy fats, and they’re the perfect replacement for rice, potatoes and other high-carb foods in a low carb diet.

Chicken and turkey are other protein-rich meats that don’t have a lot of carbs, and they’re great in low-carb dishes. Pair them with vegetables like steamed Brussels sprouts or zucchini for a tasty and filling low-carb dinner.

Beef is another great choice for a low-carb meal or snack. It’s a great source of protein and satiating fats, which can help you stay full longer. Plus, it’s rich in important nutrients like vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids.

Salmon is a delicious fish that is low in carbs and is a great source of heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. It’s also a good source of vitamin B12, which is essential for red blood cell formation.

Cheese is another nutrient-dense food that’s low in carbs and contains many other beneficial nutrients, including calcium. It’s an easy way to add more protein and calcium to your low-carb diet, according to Cassetty. “It’s also a great source of thiamin and vitamin B6, which are important for brain function,” she says.

Chia seeds are a nutrient-dense food that can be used to boost the fiber and protein in a meal. They’re also a good source of calcium, magnesium and vitamins A and E.

Nuts are another healthy option that can be incorporated into a low-carb diet. They have a high fiber content, and are an excellent source of healthy fats and antioxidants.

Avocado is an incredible food that contains a lot of good-for-you fats and filling fiber. It’s an inexpensive and versatile food that can be used in a variety of ways, from smoothies to shaved on top of your salad.