Low-carbohydrate diets limit grains, bread, pasta, white rice, baked goods, and soda. While carbohydrates are a major fuel source for the body and a necessary part of a balanced diet for some people, extra carbohydrates that are not used for energy are stored as fat. Therefore, consuming more carbohydrates than the body is able to metabolize will lead to weight gain.

Low-carbohydrate diets focus predominantly on healthy sources of protein and fat such as meat, poultry, dairy, eggs, and non-starchy fruits and vegetables. Generally, grains, beans, starchy fruits and vegetables, bread, sweets, and pasta are limited or excluded. This style of eating often leads to weight loss – first in the form of quickly-lost water weight – reduced appetite, reduced calorie consumption, and an increase in satiety for some.

Foods to include:

Meat
Fish
Eggs
Low-starch vegetables
Low-starch fruits
Dairy
Nuts
Seeds
Oils

Foods to avoid:

Bread
Pasta
Rice
Barley
Beans
Starchy desserts
Processed foods
Refined sugar

Pros:

May jump-start weight loss
Promotes whole foods
May become a lifestyle approach
Includes healthy fats

Cons:

Some thrive on carbs
Restricted carb intake may lead to cravings and binges
May be hard for some to avoid carbohydrates

Sources:

Low-carb diet: Can it help you lose weight? www.mayoclinic.com
Low Carb Foods www.lowcarbfoods.org