Watkins Low-Carb Tips

Watkins Has Your
Low-Carb Answers

Note: please be sure to read the special note from Brenda Koth, Watkins Nutrition Specialist at the bottom.

Watkins Gourmet Herbs, Spices and Spice Rubs contain no sugar, carbohydrates or calories. Those following a low-carbohydrate plan or any diet plan often have limited options and eating the same or similar foods every day gets boring, making it harder to stick to the diet plan. Watkins Herbs and Spices add variety and taste, contribute no calories, carbohydrates or fat, and can help dieters stick to their plan.

Watkins Pepper, Pepper Blends and Peppercorns contain no sugar, carbohydrates or calories and add zest and flavor.

Watkins Cinnamon contains no sugar, carbohydrates or calories and can help to control blood sugar levels, keeping appetite under control.

Watkins Gourmet Extracts contain no sugar, with the exception of Maple, Vanilla and Vanilla Nut, which contain only very small amounts.

Watkins Grapeseed Oils and Liquid Spice Garlic contain no sugar or carbohydrates and help to control appetite by reducing hunger for several hours. The added natural flavors provide variety and help dieters stick to their eating plan.

Watkins Chicken, Onion and Beef Soups contain less than 3 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

A Special Note from Watkins Nutrition Expert, Brenda Koth, MS, RD There have been many diets and weight loss plans that have come and gone through the years, including the Atkins diet. Atkins, as well as other low-carbohydrate, high-protein diets, were popular decades ago, and are making a comeback. While these diets do promote weight loss, in order to keep the weight off, the diet must be followed for a lifetime, and that's what worries health experts. Any extreme type of eating plan that is followed for just a short time will not likely have long-term health risks, but a lifetime plan of virtually cutting out an entire food group that is essential for health, without knowing the long-term risks, is a concern. While the long-term health risks of low-carbohydrate plans have not yet been determined, doctors caution against the increased risk of gout, kidney stones, kidney and liver disease, weakened bones, and mood swings. Depression is a concern because carbohydrates help boost the production of serotonin, which controls emotions, and a shortage of serotonin can lead to mood swings and depression. As a registered dietitian and licensed nutritionist, I encourage a sensible eating plan that includes all food groups in moderation - lean meats, fish, seafood and poultry, whole grains, fruit, vegetables, dairy, and an occasional sweet. However, I realize that many people are looking for products that can be used with the Atkins plan or other low-carbohydrate eating plans. Fortunately, with Watkins diversified product line, there is something for everyone, no matter what eating plan they may be following at the time. Brenda Koth, MS, RD