Six days a week I keep my diet incredibly low carb; then Sunday rolls around and I refill the carb stores and usually end up taking a carb induced evening nap. A large number of people I talk with are amazed that I am able to stay sane six days a week with less than 30 grams of carbs a day. "Don't you feel like you're torturing yourself?" That's a common question I hear. And the answer is "no, not one bit." I've tried a lot of things nutrition wise over the years and I've found this is what works best for me. My body doesn't handle gluten well; I've known that for years. Ever since I was about 17 I've kept my gluten intake very low and a few months ago I cut it out completely. It was an adjustment going from carbs multiple times a week to only once a week, but I've found some fantastic foods that really do help satisfy my carb cravings:
1.
Quest Bars: This is by far my favorite low carb snack. I don't have these every day, but about once or twice a week I'll indulge. This is sort of a "protein bar" but the difference is they're not full of bad stuff like the typical ones you find in your grocery store that are no better than a candy bar. Quest bars are full of fiber so they only have between 2-7 grams of active carbs depending on the flavor you choose. Just a tip, be careful when you choose one, some of them are made with sugar alcohols. Some people digest those just fine but others don't do so well with it so just be cautious. My favorite flavors are cookie dough, peanut butter supreme, and coconut cashew, and banana nut muffin. These are a little pricier than your typical bars but they are well worth, both taste and nutrition wise. You can find Quest bars at your local Vitamin Shoppe or GNC. (rumor has it that Starbuck's may soon be carrying them...Quest bar and coffee? Yes please!)
2.
Frozen Protein Shake: Take about a scoop and a half of protein powder, mix in a little cocoa powder and water (peanut butter if you're trying to get additional calories) mix it all together, put it in the freezer for a couple hours. When you eat it you'll think you're eating ice cream.
3.
String Cheese: This is one of my favorite mid afternoon snacks when I'm at work. It's quick, easy, and yummy! My current favorite is Kraft Jalapeno string cheese. I'm a big fan of mozzarella but they all make a great snack for the most part.
4.
Almonds: Such a classic. I like regular, unsalted best. A lot of people have told me they shy away from nuts because of the high fat content. Don't be scared. Eat a serving a day. You'll be fine.
5.
Justin's Maple Almond Butter: While we're on the topic of nuts...be cautious with this stuff. It's crazy addicting and needs a warning label. In moderation it's so great though. Hands down the best nut butter I've ever had the pleasure of tasting. Sorry, Nutella, this puts you to shame. I love any almond/peanut butter but this kind takes the cake. I've tried cashew butter but I personally didn't have much of a taste for it.
6.
Hard Boiled Eggs: Eggs are a big part of my diet. My goal is to eat at least two a day. Hard boiled eggs are an easy thing to make ahead of time and stick in the fridge and just grab when you're on the go. They're easy and full of nutrients.
7.
Coffee with Protein Powder: This is one of my all time favorite drinks (I try to only have it in the morning.) It's super simple and tastes awesome. I use a little less than a scoop of powder and just stir it into my coffee. It gives the coffee a creamy texture and delicious taste. I've tried chocolate, vanilla, and cookies & cream powder and they all taste awesome. Just make sure you stir it up really well so it's not clumpy.
Those are my six most commonly consumed snacks. If you decide to go the low carb route, keep in mind that it doesn't have to be torture. Just get creative and think outside the box. There are modifications to nearly everything. I promise you won't even be missing your ice cream and pizza. AND your body will thank you for it.
