How many net carbs should you eat to lose weight

Carbs are not evil. Your body needs them and they could be the BEST allies to your weight loss! This post will share the most effective carbs to lose weight. Plus some delicious recipe suggestions, too.

How many net carbs should you eat to lose weight

Carbs…They’ve sadly been given a bad rep alllll these years. 

They have been shunned, discarded. Called “evil” by many diets! Naturally, this has caused many people to lessen their intake or *gasp* avoid them altogether. 

But get this. When consumed in moderation, carbs can actually be one of your best pals for weight loss. I’m 100% serious.

Whether you’re starting the journey to weight loss, or are looking for fresh ideas to spruce up your meal prep, this post will help you identify the carbs that offer maximum nourishment and nutritious benefits.

We’ll also debunk common misconceptions and get straight to the facts that work. Read on further for yummy recipes you can try! Because any diet should taste good…really good.

How Many Carbs Should I Consume Daily To Lose Weight?

The recommended carb ratio according to the Food and Drug Administration should be 300 grams per day when you’re eating a 2,000 calorie diet. If you’re looking to lose weight, you can shave off digits but I wouldn’t recommend dropping below 150 grams per day for too long (for you health’s sake).

Feeling kind of lost? If you’re looking for a detailed guide on how to jumpstart your health, weight loss, and clean-eating lifestyle, checkout my 30 Day Healthy Program!

How many net carbs should you eat to lose weight

Is It Bad to Cut Out Carbs Completely?

Unless you want to go full on yo-yo diet (lose some, gain it all back) you should not cut carbs completely. They are the body’s main source of energy! You may lose weight this way BUT you’ll be depleted, super hungry, and lose that healthy glow.

Plus, carbs are great sources of fiber, minerals, vitamins (such as B12), and antioxidants. Removing them completely can rob you of important nutrients in your diet. Not to mention enthusiasm for life! 

What Carbs Should I Avoid To Loose Weight?

Not all carbs are created equal. The ones you need to particularly avoid are refined carbohydrates. I’m pretty sure you already have an idea on which these might be. But in just in case…

Here’s a list of carbs to avoid for effective weight loss:

  • Rice Crackers
  • White Bread
  • Sugary Cereals
  • Potato Chips
  • Muffins
  • Energy Bars
  • Crackers

What Carbs Should I Eat To Loose Belly Fat?

When you’re looking to lose belly fat, you should eat complex carbs plentiful with dietary fiber. It takes your body longer to break them down which keeps you full and curbs cravings…you know, those things you get 24/7 when you don’t eat enough. Keep reading to learn about the top 8 carbs for weight loss.

How many net carbs should you eat to lose weight

1. Oats

Oats are loaded with complex carbs! They also have 10 grams of protein per a half-cup serving which makes for an excellent energy boost. Look for rolled or steel cut oats (these have more nutrients vs. instant or quick-cook)! These banana oat blender pancakes have definitely kept me full, happy, and satisfied!

How many net carbs should you eat to lose weight

2. Legumes

Did you know: lentils, chickpeas, beans, and peas are all legumes? These bad boys are great for reducing belly fat. Woohoo! Promising studies have shown that eating a semi calorie restricted diet that included 4 legume servings per week aided in MORE weight loss…compared to those that didn’t eat legumes.

Now, ready for a fab recipe? You need to try my awesome Sweet Potato and Lentil Hash.

3. Whole-Wheat Bread

Whole grain bread and pasta have been wondrous additions on my weight loss journey! Check out 6 Best Store Bought Breads to discover the most nutritious brands you can buy. Hearty carbs help you burn more belly fat especially when you nix other more refined carbs.

Give this Chocolate Zucchini Bread a try. It’s made with whole wheat pastry flour, is super easy to prepare, and is a GREAT way to satisfy your chocolate cravings. 

How many net carbs should you eat to lose weight

4. Full Fat Yogurt (And Dairy)

Full fat yogurt doesn’t often come to mind when it comes to weight loss. But, this creamy snack can actually lower your body mass index, weight, AND fat. The combination of natural sugars, satiating fat, and protein will keep your cravings at bay. 

Craving for something cool and sweet? Try these Frozen Yogurt Recipes! They’re creamy, rich and flavorful. So, so easy to make! 

How many net carbs should you eat to lose weight

5. Bananas

It’s the first thing most people think of when they’re looking for a healthy snack. But my friends, the banana is more than that! Not only does this fruit increase bloat-fighting bacteria in the stomach, it’s also packed with potassium (which helps diminish water retention).

Want to level up your smoothie and banana game? Try these 14 Smoothie Freezer Packs. They. Are. Amazeballs.

How many net carbs should you eat to lose weight

6. Quinoa

When I got into clean-eating, I discovered just how awesome quinoa is. No wonder it’s considered to be the powerhouse of the ancient grains! Quinoa keeps you full and it’s also a complete protein…which gives you the amino acids your body needs to build muscle. And you know we like to stay fit around here.

If you’re looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, this Chocolate Quinoa Breakfast Bowl  will definitely brighten up your morning.

How many net carbs should you eat to lose weight

7. Broccoli

Carbs and broccoli don’t normally go in the same sentence. But broccoli is a great source to consider because it packs a good dose of fiber. This aids in digestion, prevents constipation, maintains low blood sugar, and curbs overeating.

This Healthy Broccoli Salad with Greek Yogurt Dressing is crunchy, light, and refreshing.

8. Sweet Potatoes

Ahh, my beloved sweet potatoes. Not only are they chock-full of nutrients but they also have medicinal properties. They’re loaded with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber. It’s no wonder sweet potatoes are a superfood!

Try these Sweet Potato Nachos. But only if you’re looking for a meal that’s so good it feels like a cheat day.

How many net carbs should you eat to lose weight

More Healthy Carb Recipes For Weight Loss

Now you know just how awesome carbs can be! Hopefully I’ve been able to show you why they’re keepers when it comes to maintaining a great and balanced diet. 

And as a bonus, here’s a few more recipes!

  • Healthy Au Grain Potatoes (so good and comforting)
  • Spinach Salad with Warm Bacon Dressing
  • 12 Healthy Quinoa Recipes
  • Top 12 Demonized Foods That Are Actually Good For You
  • Frozen Breakfast Burritos (Healthy Make Ahead Breakfast!)

This post contains affiliate links for products I use regularly and highly recommend.

Should I count carbs or net carbs to lose weight?

Counting net carbs is simple to do and it can make life a bit easier when you're trying to lose weight. To work toward your total carbohydrate goal (which a registered dietitian can help you figure out), all you have to do is subtract the fiber and sugar alcohols from total carbs and continue on with your day.

Can you lose weight on 30 net carbs a day?

The effect on weight loss tends to be higher the lower you go with carbs. Below 20 net grams per day seems to be the most effective level, but below 50 can work fine too for many people, and it's easier to do.

Can you lose weight eating 50 net carbs a day?

You'll lose excess weight faster and feel healthier if you limit your carbs to somewhere between 50 and 150 grams per day (exact numbers vary according to your total caloric intake). The beauty is that when you're cutting carbs, you can still smash meals without counting calories.

How many net carbs should I eat?

The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend that carbohydrates make up 45% to 65% of total daily calories. So if you get 2,000 calories a day, between 900 and 1,300 calories should be from carbohydrates. That translates to between 225 and 325 grams of carbs a day.