If you are trying to cut out carbs from your diet, I have found the best way is to make creative substitutions, so you don’t feel like you are missing out on your favourite foods. I’ve been experimenting with a number of low carb alternatives and the ones I would recommend are below:

Replacement for pasta:

The latest trend to replace pasta is spiralised vegetables. My personal favourite is courgette (zucchini) as this is the most similar texture and taste to spaghetti. This is best done with a spiralizer. I have a very basic one, but it does the job and makes a great alternative to pasta.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Mel Johnson (@bestselfology)

Replacement for mash potatoes:

A replacement for mashed potato is cauliflower mash. You can make a variety of different version. The basic version is steamed cauliflower pureed with a blender. You can add a variety of the below: butter, cream cheese, garlic, chives, herbs

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Mel Johnson (@bestselfology)

Replacement for rice:

I used to eat rice every day and one of the things I found is that it gave me a real energy slump. I found a recipe for cauliflower rice and although I was initially skeptical, I actually love it. It is really tasty and is a great substitute for the real thing. You make it by grating cauliflower, then put it in the steamer for 10 mins and voila, it’s done!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Mel Johnson (@bestselfology)

Replacement for lasagne:

Rather than using pasta sheets for a traditional lasagne, replace them with thin slices of courgette (zucchini). I use a potato peeler to get the thin strips, then you want to soak up as much of the moisture in them as you can, so it doesn’t make the lasagne watery.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Mel Johnson (@bestselfology)

Replacement for pizza: (slight long shot but very tasty none the less)

This is a bit of a long shot in that pizza lovers may disagree it is an acceptable replacement, but it is really tasty none the less! You use portobello mushrooms, then layer them with mozzarella, tomato and basil.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Mel Johnson (@bestselfology)

For more creative ideas for healthy meals, you can follow my healthy eating diet on Instagram

I’d love to hear about any substitutions you make instead of carbs in the comments below.

Thumb	Title
	7 ways a 30 day challenge can help you develop a habit May 10, 2017 by Mel Johnson Filed as: Goal Setting, Health, Self Development
	5 practical ways to slow down in this crazy fast paced world May 2, 2017 by Mel Johnson Filed as: Health, Productivity, Self Development
	How to get back on track when you’ve lost your way April 26, 2017 by Mel Johnson Filed as: Health, Productivity, Self Development
	The important role sleep plays in being your most productive self April 18, 2017 by Mel Johnson Filed as: Health
	12 powerful ways to take care of your health: Exercise March 7, 2017 by Mel Johnson Filed as: Fitness, Health
	12 powerful ways to take care of your health: Healthy Eating February 8, 2017 by Mel Johnson Filed as: Goal Setting, Health
	12 powerful ways to take care of your health January 17, 2017 by Mel Johnson Filed as: Goal Setting, Health, Self Development
	Why a fear inventory reduces anxiety and improves sleep January 10, 2017 by Mel Johnson Filed as: Health, Self Development
	7 easy ways to deal with emotional exhaustion November 23, 2016 by Mel Johnson Filed as: Fitness, Health, Relationships, Self Development
	A detailed explanation of the ‘Sleep Cycle of Awesomeness’ July 5, 2016 by Mel Johnson Filed as: Health, Productivity
	2 powerful habits that transform your daily routine May 24, 2016 by Mel Johnson Filed as: Fitness, Goal Setting, Health
	We Are DoNation Vegan Challenge February 16, 2016 by Mel Johnson Filed as: Environmental, Health
	The lasting impact of Dry January February 2, 2016 by Mel Johnson Filed as: Fitness, Health, Relationships
	What does happiness mean for you and can you become happier? January 20, 2016 by Mel Johnson Filed as: Health, Relationships, Self Development
	10 reasons to commit to a ‘Dry January’ December 29, 2015 by Mel Johnson Filed as: Goal Setting, Health
	What does your yoga practice mean to you? September 9, 2015 by Mel Johnson Filed as: Fitness, Health
	5 reasons to embark on a digital detox August 25, 2015 by Mel Johnson Filed as: Health, Self Development
	Does practicing mindfulness meditation make you more productive? August 11, 2015 by Mel Johnson Filed as: Health, Productivity, Self Development
	How establishing a meaningful morning routine can positively impact your life July 14, 2015 by Mel Johnson Filed as: Goal Setting, Health, Productivity
	5 reasons enjoying your exercise keeps you healthier June 2, 2015 by Mel Johnson Filed as: Fitness, Health
	9 steps to creating an evening routine that guarantees a good nights sleep May 26, 2015 by Mel Johnson Filed as: Health
	32 Health Hacks for a happier, healthier life May 19, 2015 by Mel Johnson Filed as: Fitness, Goal Setting, Health
	13 reasons you might not be making the progress you desire on your health goals April 15, 2015 by Mel Johnson Filed as: Fitness, Health
	5 new trends to help with the quest for a low carb diet! March 31, 2015 by Mel Johnson Filed as: Health
	Is being healthy directly linked to being organised? March 7, 2015 by Mel Johnson Filed as: Health
	How 10 minutes of mindfulness can be achieved each day using Headspace March 3, 2015 by Mel Johnson Filed as: Health
	5 reasons to carry out Jason Vales 5lbs in 5 days juice diet February 4, 2015 by Mel Johnson Filed as: Health