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5 Low Carb Alternatives to Junk Food

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Feb 22, 2021
09:00 P.M.

It can be difficult to cut calories when junk food is so addictive. We’ve all been there, staying on a healthy diet only to be lead astray by a brownie or a dought or maybe three. In case you are wondering if there is a way out of this vicious circle, the answer is yes.

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If you are on a low-carb diet but find it hard to beat those cravings, it’s time to seek a replacement. Besides, eating out can be hard when nearly every other fast food option out there has bread, fries, and sodas.

Aside from that, there is nothing wrong with looking for a quick hit or have the time to make a healthy snack, but you may not always have the time. However, sticking to your diet plan by opting for these five low-carb alternatives below will keep you on track.

McDonald’s Breakfast Sandwich

Photo by Kelly Neil on Unsplash

Photo by Kelly Neil on Unsplash

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Before you ask, yes, it’s possible to be low carb and eat some McDonalds. However, the act comes with some insight. While memories of The Big Mac and the Quarter Pounder may have you reaching for the carbs again, remember a low carb option can be just as good.

Try out their Egg of Sausage McMuffins. These popular breakfast items come with a muffin that is 29 carbs alone. Toss the muffin and have the egg and sausage option alone. Have two and up your protein intake.

KFC Grilled Chicken

Photo by Ivana Cajina on Unsplash

Photo by Ivana Cajina on Unsplash

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Fried Chicken is unhealthy due to its oil content. Frying chicken at high temperatures in vegetable oils releases harmful compounds that expose you to chronic diseases. Furthermore, fried chicken 8-11 grams of carbs per piece alone.

With this in mind, it is imperative you consciously choose grilled chicken over fried. Next time you pass a KFC, order some. One piece of grilled chicken has less than one gram of crab, so feel free to pick the thigh, breast, or drumstick.

Lettuce Wrap Burgers

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Burgers are the ultimate treat but not a daily indulgence. However, if those cravings are begging for answers, hold the burger buns and go for a lettuce wrap. This way, you can still enjoy the patty and the sauces without the heavy carbs.

However, go easy on the condiments as they often hide carbs and can set you back in your low-carb diet. In addition, you can choose mayo over ketchup as it has fewer carbs. Moreso, straight-up mustard is better than honey mustard, while chili sauces have less sugar.

Salad Bowls

Photo by Luisa Brimble on Unsplash

Photo by Luisa Brimble on Unsplash

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From Chicken to Greek, salads are fantastic meals that are all under 20 grams of carbs. Go for options full of protein as protein increases the feeling of fullness. Therefore add on some chicken, steak, avocados, or tomatoes.

Next time you are in a sandwich or sub shop, cut the carbs and ask them to turn your order into a salad. Also, do the same with some southwestern options. Get a Mexican salad bowl with healthy protein and veggies but hold the beans, sour cream, and chips.

Bacon Sausage and Eggs

Photo by Eiliv-Sonas Aceron on Unsplash

Photo by Eiliv-Sonas Aceron on Unsplash

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A study showed consumption of eggs and sausage in the morning reduced appetite in young overweight girls. This is because eggs can make you feel fuller for longer. Furthermore, most fast food joints offer this simple traditional breakfast.

However, you should take everything in moderation. Bacon and sausages are still processed meats and can expose you to health risks. Thus, limiting your consumption will keep you healthy. Therefore, try also adding some fresh fruit or vegetables to your meal.

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