Imagine a world where you can eat delicious foods without worrying about carbs.
Sound too good to be true? Welcome to the zero-carb zone!
Whether you’re looking to shed pounds, manage blood sugar, or just curious about low-carb living, our guide to 37 ultimate zero-carb foods is about to become your new best friend.
What Are Zero-Carb Foods?
Zero-carb foods are items that contain less than 1 gram of carbohydrates per serving. These foods are primarily composed of proteins and fats, with minimal to no carbohydrate content. Examples include most meats, fish, eggs, certain cheeses, oils, and some leafy green vegetables. Zero-carb foods are often favored in low-carb and ketogenic diets.
Now, let’s explore our 37 ultimate zero-carb foods!
Meats
Meats are the superheroes of zero-carb eating. They’re packed with protein and have zero carbs. Here are some top picks:
1. Chicken Breast
Chicken breast is a lean, mean, protein machine. It’s super versatile and can be cooked in tons of ways.
Macros per 100g:
- Protein: 31g
- Fat: 3.6g
- Carbs: 0g
2. Turkey Breast
Turkey isn’t just for Thanksgiving! It’s another lean protein that’s great for sandwiches or salads.
Macros per 100g:
- Protein: 29g
- Fat: 1g
- Carbs: 0g
3. Beef (Various Cuts)
From juicy steaks to ground beef for burgers, beef is a zero-carb staple. Different cuts have different fat content, so choose based on your needs.
Macros per 100g (for 80% lean ground beef):
- Protein: 26g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbs: 0g
4. Lamb
Lamb is a flavorful meat that’s popular in many cuisines. It’s a bit higher in fat than some other meats.
Macros per 100g:
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 21g
- Carbs: 0g
Fish and Seafood
Fish and seafood are not only zero-carb but also packed with healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Let’s dive in!
6. Salmon
Salmon is a fatty fish that’s loaded with heart-healthy omega-3s. It’s great grilled, baked, or even raw in sushi.
Macros per 100g:
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 13g
- Carbs: 0g
7. Tuna
Tuna, whether canned or fresh, is another excellent zero-carb option. It’s lean and protein-rich.
Macros per 100g (canned in water):
- Protein: 26g
- Fat: 1g
- Carbs: 0g
8. Cod
Cod is a mild-flavored white fish that’s super low in fat and high in protein.
Macros per 100g:
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 0.7g
- Carbs: 0g
9. Shrimp
These little guys are a zero-carb powerhouse. They’re super lean and cook up in no time.
Macros per 100g:
- Protein: 24g
- Fat: 1.7g
- Carbs: 0g
10. Crab
Crab meat is delicious and nutritious. It’s low in fat and high in protein.
Macros per 100g:
- Protein: 19g
- Fat: 1.5g
- Carbs: 0g
Eggs and Dairy
Eggs and some dairy products are excellent zero-carb foods that add variety to your diet.
11. Eggs
Eggs are incredibly nutritious and versatile. They’re perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Macros per large egg:
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 5g
- Carbs: 0.6g
12. Cheese
Most hard cheeses are very low in carbs. Cheddar, mozzarella, and Swiss are all great options.
Macros per 100g (cheddar):
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 33g
- Carbs: 1.3g
13. Heavy Cream
Heavy cream is a great zero-carb option for adding richness to coffee or making sauces.
Macros per tablespoon:
- Protein: 0.4g
- Fat: 5.5g
- Carbs: 0.4g
14. Butter
Butter is pure fat and adds amazing flavor to foods. Use it for cooking or as a spread.
Macros per tablespoon:
- Protein: 0.1g
- Fat: 11.5g
- Carbs: 0g
Oils and Fats
Oils and fats are crucial for zero-carb eating. They provide energy and help you absorb vitamins.
15. Olive Oil
Olive oil is heart-healthy and great for cooking or dressing salads.
Macros per tablespoon:
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbs: 0g
16. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is popular in low-carb diets. It’s great for cooking at high temperatures.
Macros per tablespoon:
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbs: 0g
17. Avocado Oil
Avocado oil is another healthy option with a high smoke point, making it great for cooking.
Macros per tablespoon:
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbs: 0g
18. MCT Oil
MCT oil is often used in keto diets for quick energy. It’s usually added to coffee or smoothies.
Macros per tablespoon:
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbs: 0g
Beverages
Staying hydrated is important, and these zero-carb drinks have got you covered.
19. Water
Good old H2O is the ultimate zero-carb drink. It’s essential for life and has zero calories.
Macros:
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Carbs: 0g
20. Black Coffee
Coffee is naturally zero-carb and can give you a nice energy boost.
Macros per 8 oz:
- Protein: 0.3g
- Fat: 0g
- Carbs: 0g
21. Unsweetened Tea
Like coffee, tea is naturally zero-carb. Green, black, or herbal – take your pick!
Macros per 8 oz:
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Carbs: 0g
22. Sparkling Water
If you miss soda, sparkling water can be a great zero-carb alternative.
Macros:
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Carbs: 0g
Herbs and Spices
Herbs and spices add tons of flavor without adding carbs. Here are some favorites:
23. Basil
Basil adds a fresh, sweet flavor to many dishes.
Macros per tablespoon (fresh):
- Protein: 0.1g
- Fat: 0g
- Carbs: 0.1g
24. Oregano
Oregano is great in Italian and Greek dishes.
Macros per teaspoon (dried):
- Protein: 0.1g
- Fat: 0.1g
- Carbs: 0.2g
25. Rosemary
Rosemary has a strong, woodsy flavor that’s great with meats.
Macros per tablespoon (fresh):
- Protein: 0.1g
- Fat: 0.2g
- Carbs: 0.5g
26. Thyme
Thyme is versatile and works well in many dishes.
Macros per teaspoon (ground):
- Protein: 0.1g
- Fat: 0g
- Carbs: 0.3g
27. Garlic Powder
Garlic powder adds lots of flavor with very few carbs.
Macros per teaspoon:
- Protein: 0.5g
- Fat: 0g
- Carbs: 2g
28. Cinnamon
Cinnamon can add sweetness without sugar.
Macros per teaspoon:
- Protein: 0.1g
- Fat: 0g
- Carbs: 2.1g
29. Cumin
Cumin adds a warm, earthy flavor to dishes.
Macros per teaspoon:
- Protein: 0.4g
- Fat: 0.5g
- Carbs: 0.9g
Condiments and Sauces
These add-ons can make your meals more exciting without adding carbs.
30. Mayonnaise
Mayo is mostly fat and great for making dips or dressing salads.
Macros per tablespoon:
- Protein: 0.1g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbs: 0.1g
31. Mustard
Most types of mustard are very low in carbs.
Macros per teaspoon (yellow mustard):
- Protein: 0.2g
- Fat: 0.1g
- Carbs: 0.1g
32. Hot Sauce
Most hot sauces are very low in carbs and add a nice kick to foods.
Macros per teaspoon:
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Carbs: 0.1g
33. Vinegar
Vinegar adds tang and flavor with almost no carbs.
Macros per tablespoon (apple cider vinegar):
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Carbs: 0.1g
Snacks
Even on a zero-carb diet, you might want a snack now and then.
34. Pork Rinds
Pork rinds are a crunchy, zero-carb snack option.
Macros per ounce:
- Protein: 17g
- Fat: 9g
- Carbs: 0g
35. Beef Jerky
Beef jerky can be a good zero-carb snack, but check the label for added sugars.
Macros per ounce (varies by brand):
- Protein: 9g
- Fat: 1g
- Carbs: 3g
Supplements
While whole foods should be your main focus, these supplements can be helpful.
36. Collagen Peptides
Collagen can support skin, hair, and joint health.
Macros per scoop (varies by brand):
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 0g
- Carbs: 0g
37. Bone Broth
Bone broth is rich in nutrients and can be a comforting zero-carb drink.
Macros per cup (varies by brand):
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 0g
- Carbs: 0g
Final Thoughts
There you have it – 37 awesome zero-carb foods to power your day!
Remember, while these foods are great for low-carb diets, it’s always important to eat a balanced diet with a variety of nutrients.
If you’re thinking about making big changes to your diet, it’s a good idea to chat with a doctor or a nutritionist first.
Eating zero-carb doesn’t have to be boring. With this list, you’ve got tons of delicious options to choose from.
So go ahead, experiment with these foods, and find your favorite zero-carb meals. Happy eating!
