Maintaining a low-carb diet while increasing calorie intake can be a challenging yet rewarding endeavor. Whether you’re an athlete looking to optimize your performance, trying to gain healthy weight, or simply want to balance your macronutrients, incorporating high calorie low carb foods into your diet is key. In this article, we will explore 20 of the best high calorie low carb foods that can help you meet your nutritional goals while keeping carbohydrates in check. Without anymore wasting time, let’s dive deep into this.
Avocado (160 Calories per 100g)
Avocado is a nutritional powerhouse, rich in healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. It contains approximately 9 grams of carbs per 100 grams, making it one of the best a high calorie low carb foods. The monounsaturated fats in avocados are heart-healthy and provide long-lasting energy.
Nuts and Seeds
Almonds, walnuts, and chia seeds from nuts and seeds family are excellent sources of healthy fats and protein. They are very calorie-dense while remaining extremely low in carbs. A small handful of nuts or a sprinkle of seeds can add significant calories to your meals or snacks. Like a handful of peanuts can provide more than 300 calories which is an impressive number!
Dark Chocolate (600 Calories per 100g)
Dark chocolate with a high cocoa content is lower in sugar and carbohydrates compared to milk chocolate. It’s a satisfying treat that provides calories and antioxidants. It is also a decent source of zinc and iron.
Olive Oil (884 Calories per 100g)
Olive oil is easily one of the best high calorie low carb foods that can be drizzled on salads, used for cooking, or even consumed on its own for a quick energy boost. It’s also packed with monounsaturated fats that are good for your heart.
Fatty Fish (Salmon, Mackerel, Sardines)
Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines are rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids. They provide essential nutrients while containing minimal carbohydrates. A 3-ounce serving of cooked salmon, for instance, offers around 180 calories and virtually no carbs. In a nutshell, along with being calorie dense, these sea fishes are some of the best high protein low carb foods too!
Coconut Oil (862 Calories per 100g)
Coconut oil is rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are quickly converted into energy by the body. It’s a calorie-dense option that can be used for cooking, baking, or added to smoothies.
Butter (717 Calories per 100g)
Everyone knows how massive amount of calories butter contains! But, not all of them know about how little its carb content is. Butter is a extremely calorie-dense fat source with almost no carbs. Butter can be used for cooking and baking. It adds rich flavor and texture to dishes without introducing carbs. This makes it one of the best high calorie low carb foods without any doubt.
Heavy Cream (340 Calories per 100g)
Heavy cream is a rich, calorie-dense dairy product with minimal carbohydrates. It can be used to add creaminess and flavor to soups, sauces, and desserts.
Eggs (147 Calories per Large Egg)
Eggs are a protein powerhouse with minimal carbs. They are not only calorie-dense but also packed with essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and choline. Eggs can be prepared in countless ways to suit your taste.
Pork Rinds (574 Calories per 100g)
Pork rinds, also known as chicharrones, are really outstanding high calorie low carb foods. They can be taken as snacks. They are a crunchy and tasty choice for those following a low-carb diet.
Pork (Pork Loin, Pork Chops)
Pork, particularly lean cuts like pork loin or pork chops, is a low-carb, high-protein meat source. It’s calorie-dense just like sea fishes and can be cooked in various ways to create satisfying meals.
Beef (Ground Beef, Steak)
Beef is another excellent source of protein and calories. Opt for lean cuts like sirloin or ground beef with a higher fat content for calorie density. Grass-fed beef is also a healthier choice due to its superior nutrient profile.
Tofu (144 Calories per 100g)
Tofu, or bean curd, is a plant-based protein source that is low in carbs and high in calories. It’s a versatile ingredient that can be used in both savory and sweet dishes.
Cheese (Parmesan, Cheddar, Gouda)
Cheese is one of those high calorie low carb foods that can be enjoyed in various forms. Parmesan, cheddar, and gouda cheese, for example, are excellent choices. They are not only calorie-dense but also packed with protein and essential vitamins and minerals.
Non-Starchy Vegetables (Spinach, Kale, Broccoli)
While most vegetables are low in calories and carbs, non-starchy options like spinach, kale, and broccoli are nutrient-dense with decent calories and can be added to your meals without significantly increasing carb intake.
Seeds (Pumpkin Seeds, Sunflower Seeds)
Seeds like pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds are calorie-dense and packed with healthy fats, protein, and essential nutrients. They make for excellent snacks or salad toppers.
Nut Butters (Almond, Peanut, Cashew)
Nut butters, such as almond, peanut, and cashew butter, are calorie-dense spreads rich in healthy fats and protein. For instance, 2 tablespoons of peanut butter contain more than 300 calories! For this reason, nut butters are certainly some of the best high calorie low carb foods. They can be spread on low-carb bread or used as a dip for fruits and vegetables.
Greek Yogurt (97 Calories per 100g)
Compared to regular yogurt, Greek yogurt is higher in protein and lower in carbs which is why it is consumed by many athletes and sportspersons in their daily diet. It’s a versatile high calorie low carb food that can be enjoyed on its own, in smoothies, or with toppings like nuts and berries.
Bacon (42 Calories per Slice)
Bacon can be a flavorful, high-calorie addition to your meals. While it should be consumed in moderation due to its high saturated fat content, a few slices can add a significant calorie boost.
Cottage Cheese (98 Calories per 100g)
Cottage cheese is a protein-rich dairy product with minimal carbs. It can be eaten on its own or mixed with fruits, nuts, or seeds for added calories and flavor.
Conclusion
Incorporating high calorie low carb foods into your diet can help you meet your nutritional goals while adhering to a low-carb lifestyle. Whether you’re looking to maintain or gain weight, fuel your workouts, or simply enjoy delicious and calorie-dense meals, the options listed above provide a variety of choices to suit your taste preferences. Remember to maintain a balanced diet and consult with a healthcare professional or nutritionist if you have specific dietary needs. Hopefully, you found this article about 20 best high calorie low carb foods helpful enough. If you really did then let us know your valuable thoughts in the comment section below. Thanks for visiting and appreciating our work.