Weight loss: High protein, low carb foods to eat if you're trying to lose weight

There is no easy way to lose weight. Either you have to keep a check on your diet or will have to increase your physical activity and sometimes both are not enough. Losing weight can be challenging and sometimes may even deprive you of certain pleasures of life. But it's all worth it! Your health should be your priority and if you're obese and are not comfortable with your body, you have the power to decide forwards.

Restrictive diets have become a crucial part of weight loss programmes, especially when you want faster and more effective results. The high protein, low-carb diet is one such diet regime. It involves cutting down on your carbohydrate intake and increasing your protein consumption to a maximum.

Ideally, the primary source of energy for the body comes from the carbs. But with a high protein, low-carb diet, the body has no carb to break down for energy. This is why it breaks down fat for energy and pushes your body to enter a metabolic state called ketosis, wherein your fat becomes the main energy source, which is why you may lose weight. That said, for those who are on this diet or are planning to switch to this diet, here are some foods you can eat.

Also read: Low-fat vs. low-carb: What is better for weight loss?

If you're looking to start your day with a high protein, low carb breakfast, toss some eggs into your meal plan and there's nothing that can go wrong. They are high in protein with minimal carb content and can be eaten in a variety of ways. Eggs can never get boring and they are one of the healthiest foods.

High protein dairy products like Greek yogurt and cottage cheese are extremely healthy and provide you with the energy to go about your day, especially when you're on a low-carb diet. Additionally, they're rich in several other nutrients including calcium, phosphorus, vitamin A, vitamin D potassium, zinc, choline and magnesium.

Almonds, peanut butter, pumpkin seeds, chia seeds, sunflower seeds and chia seeds are highly fulfilling and rich in protein. They contain low carb content which is why they're your go to snacks when it comes to weight loss.

Shellfish are a great source of protein and have a very low amount of calories, which makes them great for weight loss. It is very filling and therefore, keeps unhealthy food cravings at bay for a longer period of time. They are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids and comprise high amounts of certain micronutrients, including iron, zinc, magnesium, and vitamin B12.

Non-starchy veggies include broccoli, spinach, asparagus, mushroom, cauliflower, pepper and more. These are high in protein and very low in carb, which makes them the perfect food to lose weight, especially for those who are vegetarians. Besides these vegetables have several health benefits.

Apart from the weight loss benefits, following a high protein, low carb diet is said to improve blood sugar levels, ease heart disease risk factors which includes hypertension and high triglyceride levels. Additionally, a high protein diet is also said to reduce bone loss and risk of injury in old people.

On the downside, studies have linked high-protein diets, especially animal protein, to certain types of cancer including colorectal cancer. People who have a normal kidney function can feel free to resort to this diet. However, those suffering from pre-existing kidney disease must refrain from eating a high protein diet.

Research has also linked high-protein diets, especially to increased cardiovascular disease risks. Protein sources such as fatty cuts of meat, whole dairy products, and other high-fat foods are said to raise cholesterol, which is not healthy for your heart.