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High-Protein Low-Carb Diet Plan: Perfect for Muscle Gains

This diet plan offers a robust approach to low-carb eating with a strong emphasis on high protein sources like fish, lean meats, and eggs. It helps maintain muscle mass and supports metabolic health while minimizing carb intake. Ideal for those aiming to stay lean and satiated.

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Diet plan grocery list

  • Chicken breast
  • Turkey breast
  • Lean beef
  • Pork loin
  • Salmon
  • Tuna
  • Sardines
  • Eggs
  • Greek yogurt
  • Cottage cheese
  • Whey protein powder

  • Almonds
  • Walnuts
  • Pecans
  • Flaxseeds
  • Chia seeds
  • Hemp seeds
  • Spinach
  • Kale
  • Broccoli
  • Cauliflower
  • Avocado

  • Olive oil
  • Coconut oil
  • Butter
  • Cheese
  • Asparagus
  • Green beans
  • Zucchini
  • Bell peppers
  • Mushrooms
  • Cucumber
  • Celery

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Article Reviewed
• Written by our editorial team.
• Published on April 29, 2024.
• Updated on August 13, 2024.

Diet plan overview

The low-carb diet plan for high protein emphasizes foods that are both low in carbohydrates and high in protein. This includes lean meats, fish, and eggs, along with selected dairy products like Greek yogurt and cottage cheese. It’s designed to support muscle repair and growth while minimizing carb intake.

This dietary approach is especially beneficial for those looking to lose weight or build muscle, as it helps maintain satiety and reduce calorie intake without sacrificing important nutrients. It’s an effective strategy for achieving fitness and body composition goals.

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Foods to eat

  • Lean Meats: Chicken breast, turkey, and lean cuts of beef and pork.
  • Fish: Salmon, tuna, and other fatty fish which are high in protein and healthy fats.
  • Eggs: A staple for high protein, versatile in many low-carb dishes.
  • Low-Carb Dairy: Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, and hard cheeses.
  • Protein Powders: Whey or pea protein powders as supplements to meals or snacks.
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Eat less means eating fewer calories. This, in turn, means not overeating fat (which is high in calories) or sugars (which have calories but no nutrients), avoiding between-meal snacks, and eating smaller portions.

Marion Nestle, PhD, MPH

Foods not to eat

  • Processed Meats: Sausages, hot dogs, and other processed items high in additives and sugars.
  • High-Carb Snacks: Chips, cookies, and other high-carb processed foods.
  • Sugar-Sweetened Beverages: Sodas, fruit juices, and sweetened teas.
  • Refined Grains: White bread, pasta, and cereals which are high in carbs.
  • High-Carb Fruits: Tropical fruits like mangoes and pineapples.

Main benefits

The low-carb diet plan for high protein supports muscle retention and growth while cutting down on sugar and starches. This diet framework boosts metabolism, helping to burn more calories throughout the day. It’s particularly effective for those looking to tone their physique while maintaining a satiating diet.

Low-carb diet plan for high protein graph

📊 Nutrient breakdown of the low-carb diet (Source)

How to budget on this diet plan

Buying whole cuts of meat and portioning them at home can significantly reduce costs compared to purchasing pre-cut meats, which are ideal for a high-protein, low-carb diet. Utilize eggs as a versatile and affordable high-protein option that can be cooked in numerous ways. Look for sales and bulk deals on high-protein staples like chicken and fish, and freeze extras for future use.

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7-Day Meal Plan for Low-Carb Diet Plan for High Protein

Day 1

  • Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with spinach, mushrooms, and cheddar cheese
  • Lunch: Grilled chicken breast with steamed broccoli and a drizzle of olive oil
  • Dinner: Baked salmon with a side of asparagus and a slice of avocado
  • Snack: Greek yogurt with flaxseeds and pecans

Day 2

  • Breakfast: Omelette with turkey breast, bell peppers, and spinach
  • Lunch: Tuna salad with avocado, cucumber, and olive oil dressing
  • Dinner: Lean beef stir-fry with green beans and kale
  • Snack: Cottage cheese with sliced almonds

Day 3

  • Breakfast: Greek yogurt topped with chia seeds and walnuts
  • Lunch: Grilled pork loin with roasted cauliflower and a drizzle of coconut oil
  • Dinner: Sardines served over a bed of sautéed zucchini and mushrooms
  • Snack: A handful of pecans

Day 4

  • Breakfast: Whey protein powder smoothie with spinach, avocado, and coconut oil
  • Lunch: Baked turkey breast with steamed asparagus and bell peppers
  • Dinner: Grilled salmon with a side salad of kale and olive oil dressing
  • Snack: Boiled eggs with a sprinkle of hemp seeds

Day 5

  • Breakfast: Cottage cheese with sliced cucumber and flaxseeds
  • Lunch: Lean beef patties with sautéed green beans and mushrooms
  • Dinner: Baked chicken breast with roasted bell peppers and avocado
  • Snack: Greek yogurt with crushed walnuts

Day 6

  • Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with turkey breast and sautéed spinach
  • Lunch: Grilled pork loin with steamed broccoli and olive oil
  • Dinner: Tuna steak with a side of grilled zucchini and a dollop of butter
  • Snack: A handful of almonds

Day 7

  • Breakfast: Whey protein powder smoothie with kale, coconut oil, and a scoop of Greek yogurt
  • Lunch: Baked salmon with cauliflower mash and sautéed asparagus
  • Dinner: Grilled chicken breast with a side of steamed green beans and mushrooms
  • Snack: Chia seeds pudding with coconut milk

Download the FREE grocery list for this Diet plan

Download the FREE grocery list for this Diet plan

Get grocery list
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⚠️ Keep in mind

As with any dietary change, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before changing your dietary habits.