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Vegan Low-Carb Diet Plan: Shed Pounds and Stay Healthy

Navigating a low-carb vegan diet requires careful planning—this diet focuses on plant-based proteins like tofu, tempeh, and a variety of nuts and seeds. Rich in leafy greens and non-starchy vegetables, it provides essential vitamins and minerals while keeping carbs in check. It’s a sustainable, health-focused choice for eco-conscious eaters.

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Diet plan grocery list

  • Tofu
  • Tempeh
  • Seitan
  • Almond milk
  • Coconut milk
  • Avocado
  • Spinach
  • Kale
  • Broccoli
  • Cauliflower
  • Mushrooms

  • Zucchini
  • Bell peppers
  • Asparagus
  • Green beans
  • Olives
  • Walnuts
  • Almonds
  • Chia seeds
  • Flax seeds
  • Hemp seeds
  • Pumpkin seeds

  • Coconut oil
  • Olive oil
  • Vegan protein powder
  • Artichokes
  • Eggplant
  • Cucumber
  • Celery
  • Arugula
  • Radishes
  • Brussels sprouts
  • Cabbage

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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 vegans eliminates common carbohydrate sources like grains and focuses on high-protein plant-based foods. Nut and seed butters, tofu, and tempeh are great protein alternatives, while low-carb vegetables like leafy greens and cruciferous veggies are staples. This plan also incorporates healthy fats from avocados and coconut products.

This approach not only supports a vegan lifestyle but also helps in weight management and improving metabolic health. It's a sustainable way to maintain a low-carb diet without animal products.

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Foods to eat

  • High-Protein Plants: Tofu, tempeh, and seitan as main protein sources.
  • Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, flaxseeds, and hemp seeds for healthy fats and proteins.
  • Low-Carb Vegetables: Spinach, kale, and zucchini which are nutrient-dense yet low in carbs.
  • Healthy Fats: Avocado, coconut oil, and olive oil to support overall calorie intake.
  • Low-Carb Dairy Alternatives: Unsweetened almond milk, coconut yogurt, and other non-dairy options.
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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

  • Grains: Rice, wheat, and other grains which are high in carbohydrates.
  • High-Carb Fruits: Bananas, apples, and other fruits high in sugars.
  • Sugary Processed Foods: Vegan cookies, candies, and other sweets made with high amounts of sugar.
  • Starchy Vegetables: Potatoes, corn, and other root vegetables high in carbs.
  • Refined Oils and Fats: Processed oils and vegan butters high in unhealthy fats.

Main benefits

The low-carb diet plan for vegans merges the benefits of plant-based eating with carb control to enhance overall health. This approach emphasizes nutrient-dense foods like leafy greens, seeds, and tofu, which are low in carbs yet high in essential nutrients. It’s an effective strategy for losing weight and boosting energy levels naturally.

Low-carb diet plan for vegans graph

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

How to budget on this diet plan

Focus on whole food sources like lentils and seeds, which are affordable and low in carbs, while providing essential proteins and fats. Purchase soy products such as tofu and soy milk in bulk from warehouse stores, as these are staples for a low-carb vegan diet. Explore local farmers markets for seasonal vegetables to add variety without increasing the budget.

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7-Day Meal Plan for Low-Carb Vegan Diet

Day 1

  • Breakfast: Tofu scramble with spinach, mushrooms, and bell peppers cooked in olive oil
  • Lunch: Zucchini noodle salad with avocado, arugula, and pumpkin seeds, dressed in olive oil and lemon juice
  • Dinner: Grilled tempeh with a side of steamed broccoli and cauliflower mash
  • Snack: Celery sticks with almond butter

Day 2

  • Breakfast: Chia pudding made with almond milk, topped with crushed walnuts and coconut flakes
  • Lunch: Vegan protein powder smoothie with spinach, avocado, and coconut milk
  • Dinner: Roasted Brussels sprouts and artichokes with seitan strips sautéed in olive oil
  • Snack: Sliced cucumber with hemp seeds and olives

Day 3

  • Breakfast: Almond yogurt (homemade with almond milk) with flax seeds and a sprinkle of cinnamon
  • Lunch: Kale and avocado salad topped with roasted chickpeas and a drizzle of tahini
  • Dinner: Stir-fried eggplant and bell peppers with tofu, seasoned with soy sauce and ginger
  • Snack: Handful of almonds and pumpkin seeds

Day 4

  • Breakfast: Vegan protein shake with almond milk, chia seeds, and a scoop of vegan protein powder
  • Lunch: Stuffed bell peppers with quinoa, black beans, corn, and avocado
  • Dinner: Zucchini lasagna with tofu ricotta and spinach
  • Snack: Kale chips baked with olive oil and nutritional yeast

Day 5

  • Breakfast: Smoothie bowl with coconut milk, mixed berries, flax seeds, and a sprinkle of chopped nuts
  • Lunch: Asparagus and arugula soup, served cold, with a swirl of coconut cream
  • Dinner: Vegan sushi rolls with cauliflower rice, avocado, cucumber, and nori
  • Snack: Steamed artichoke hearts dipped in vegan mayo

Day 6

  • Breakfast: Avocado toast on gluten-free bread with radish slices
  • Lunch: Spinach and mushroom quiche with a tofu and almond milk filling
  • Dinner: Coconut curry with mixed vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, and bell peppers) and tempeh
  • Snack: Raw carrot sticks with almond butter

Day 7

  • Breakfast: Coconut yogurt with a handful of walnuts and sliced strawberries
  • Lunch: Grilled zucchini and eggplant stacks with vegan pesto
  • Dinner: Seitan steak with sautéed kale and garlic mushrooms
  • Snack: A bowl of mixed olives and sliced radishes

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.