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10 surprisingly filling, low-carb foods you can eat on the paleo diet
1. Raspberries
2. Strawberries
"Strawberries contain high amounts of fiber and antioxidants, which have been linked to cardiovascular benefits, helping to stabilize blood sugar levels, and has anti-cancer benefits," Hill said. "These are great in baked goods, topping for salad, and in smoothies for a little bit of sweetness."
3. Blueberries
"Blueberries have been shown to help with cardiovascular health, cognitive benefits, eye health, overall antioxidant support, insulin resistance, and anti-cancer benefits. They contain a great amount of fiber, and they’re lower in sugar than some other fruits," Hill said. "They have a low glycemic index which means better blood sugar regulation and steady energy."
4. Avocados
While you may have to say goodbye to your avocado toast on the paleo diet, you can still enjoy avocados since they are low in carbs, high in fiber, and healthy fat. According to a study published in Nutrition Journal, participants that ate half an avocado with lunch reported notable decreases in fullness and a decreased desire to snack.
"These fruits are truly a beauty and 'superfood' due to their vitamin E, fiber, and healthy fat content. The thick and creamy texture is perfect for non-dairy lifestyles. You can use them in ice creams, mousses, desserts, smoothies, topped on salads, or use instead of mayo in sandwiches and salads," Hill said.
5. Nutritional yeast
If cheese is one of the foods you miss the most on the paleo diet, then nutritional yeast is a surprising seasoning that can give you that cheesy flavor, with the added benefits of fiber and protein. According to Mayo Clinic, increasing fiber and protein to meals is one way to increase feeling full and satisfied.
Hill recommends adding nutritional yeast to salads, veggies, potatoes or in a cashew "cheese dip."
"Nutritional yeast contains heaps of B vitamins, protein, and fiber in a very small volume. It has a strong flavor and the taste is similar to a rich sharp cheddar cheese which makes it the perfect cheesy substitute sans dairy," Hill said.
6. Spinach
"Spinach is a great source of minerals making it well known for bone health. Spinach contains special phytonutrients that have been shown to help decrease inflammation in the body as well to have anti-cancer benefits. It also has a high fiber content which helps keep your digestive system moving properly," Hill said.
According to Medical News Today, spinach is one of the top protein-rich veggies, with protein making up 30% of its total calories.
7. Kale
"Kale comes from the cruciferous veggie family, which means it has powerful detoxification properties," Hill said. "Kale has been shown to lower risk for certain types of cancer mainly due to the ITC content (a.k.a. isothiocyanates, made from glucosinolates). These ITCs are also responsible for kale's support on the detoxification system. Kale is generally an anti-inflammatory food."
According to Healthline, kale is high in water content but low in calories, which will help you feel full and satisfied.
8. Celery
Celery sticks are a classic snack — although if you're a celery and peanut butter fan, you'll have to switch to almond or another kind of nut-butter for the paleo diet since peanuts are technically legumes, not nuts.
"Celery is a great source of vitamin C, which we know helps fight free radicals and protect our cells from damage," Hill said. "Specifically for those who are going for a lower-carb paleo diet, it contains natural electrolytes and sodium, which tend to be lower in that kind of diet. You can use it as a raw snack, in salads, smoothies, juices, or sauteed in soups, skillet meals, or stews."
9. Almonds
"Almonds have been shown to help reduce weight, body fat, digestive health and regulate blood sugars," Hill said. "The components in almonds that help us with weight loss are the healthy fats, fiber, protein, and satiety with consuming these nuts. These can be used to make homemade nut butters, on top of salads, or as a plain snack."
10. Cashews
If you're not a fan of almonds, cashews are another nut that you can eat for a filling snack on or use in recipes.
"Cashews contain heart-healthy fats, fiber, and plant-based proteins. They to protect your heart and cardiovascular system by aiding in a good ratio of HDL:LDL cholesterol (i.e. 'good' to 'bad')," Hill said. "Cashews also contain minerals such as zinc, manganese, copper, and selenium, all of which are important for our immune system and overall health. They are great for those who live a non-dairy lifestyle to create creamy desserts, sauces, or dips because of their texture."
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