Creative Ways to Cut Carbs from Your Diet

Carbs aren't bad in and of themselves, but many people eat far too many carbs these days. If you are looking for some creative ways to reduce your carb intake, here are some great tips for you to try and share:

1. Skip The Bun

Instead of having a sandwich on bun or roll, why not try skipping it? You can opt for a lower-carb option instead like a tortilla or pita or just eat the protein and toppings over a salad. These are all healthier options that will bring the carb count down and also reduce your overall caloric intake. If you really cannot bear the idea of eating a deconstructed salad, choosing a whole-wheat bun/roll over a regular white one will at least make the meal a bit healthier.

2. Sub Out Noodles

Pasta is delicious, but if you're trying to cut back on carbs, you have some inventive options to eliminate the noodles from some of your favorite pasta dishes.

• Use broccoli slaw in place of noodles in Italian recipes. Surprisingly, once the broccoli slaw is cooked and topped with tomato sauce, you almost can't tell the difference. 
• Spaghetti squash can be used anywhere where you would find regular noodles in a recipe. Again, it tastes very much like pasta and the consistency is similar as well, which makes it an excellent substitute.
• Stir-fried peppers and onions also provide a good base for chicken, fish and other healthy proteins instead of serving them over noodles.

3. Opt for Better Carbs

Not all carbs are created equal, which means that if you love your carbs, you can always just choose better carbs. Things like black beans are high in protein, which makes them a healthy carb choice over something like corn or bread.

Also, pay attention to the labels on the food that you eat, because many times there are healthier options that you can choose. Things like Barilla Pasta Plus is pasta that is enriched with protein, Omega-3 and other vitamins to give your nutritional intake a boost.

Superfoods for A Ninja Diet

Looking to amp up your diet to keep you healthy and give you fuel to get up the warped wall? Look no further than these superfoods!

1. Blueberries
Contains: Antioxidants, Phytoflavinoids
Benefits: Anti-inflammatory, Lowers the risk of heart disease and cancer, Neutralizes free radicals

2. Salmon
Contains: Omega-3, Selenium, Vitamin B
Benefits: Lowers risk of heart disease, Helps with arthritis, Aids in memory retention, Reduces depression, Helps prevent cell damage, Increases circulation, Improves ratio of good to bad cholesterol
3. Flax Seed and Walnuts
Contains: Omega-3, Monosaturated fats
Benefits: Lowers cholesterol

4. Tofu
Contains: Soy
Benefits: Lowers cholesterol

5. Black Beans
Contains: Fiber, Protein
Benefits: Helps maintain healthy cholesterol and blood sugar levels, Keeps you fuller longer

6. Green Tea
Contains: Antioxidants
Benefits: Lowers cholesterol, May help to prevent some cancers, Lowers stress

7. 60% Cocoa Dark Chocolate
Contains: Antioxidants
Benefits: Lowers blood pressure

8. Tomatoes
Contains: Lycopene, Fiber, Potassium, Vitamin C
Benefits: Lowers cholesterol, Protects against UV rays, Lowers the risk of some cancers

9. Kale
Contains: Phytonutrients
Benefits: Lowers the risk of multiple types of cancer

10. Broccoli
Contains: Phytonutrients, Vitamin C, Folic acid
Benefits: Boosts immunity, Lowers the risk of cancer, May suppress tumor growth

11. Oats
Contains: Fiber, Magnesium, Potassium
Benefits: Lowers cholesterol, Prevents against heart disease, Regulates blood sugar levels

These superfoods can be readily found at any grocery store and do not have to break the bank, so give them a try! Even if you do not like them all, you can find ways to work them into your regular meals.

We're not doctors though, so these are not medical claims. Before changing your diet substantially, consult with a physician.