One of the most recent substantial studies that was published with regards to this topic was an analysis of 22 295 Greek individuals who were followed up for over 11 years. The study provided an interesting analysis of data from a larger study called European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and nutrition (EPIC). One finding that was particularly noteworthy was the finding that there was a relationship between low carbohydrate diets and the chance of developing diabetes. According to the lead researcher, individuals on a diet high in carbs were 21% more likely to develop type 2 diabetes. This was in stark contrast to individuals on a low carbohydrate diet who had 12% risk.

Another area of research that has been emerging over the last ten years is the field that suggests that there is a potential relationship between a diet low in carbohydrates and the development of heart disease. The most famous study, which was published in 2006 in New England Journal of Medicine, indicated that there was a statistically significant relationship between a diet low in carbohydrates and good cardiovascular health for women. Given that the study had followed 82 802 women for nearly 20 years the findings inspired further (albeit somewhat inconsistent) studies.

However, one of the key issues that has been highlighted in many previous studies looking into the effects of diets low in carbohydrates is that they have rarely considered the different types of carbohydrates individuals take in. No study has ever supported that carbohydrates should not form a part of healthy diet, but there have been discussions about the types of carbohydrates that may be better suited to a healthy diet. Harvard School of Public Health Provided a comprehensive review here.

Given that research has looked at two major areas related to individual health, it should not be surprising that supermarkets in the UK have followed with healthier options that have been labelled as lower in carbohydrates. Although many research findings have been encouraging, it is also clear that a lot of research is required before it is seen as a reliable fact. Until it is decided whether diets low in carbohydrates are fact or fiction, perhaps it is best to stick to the common sense idiom of everything in moderation.

More can be read on the subject of low car diets here - http://www.lowcarbdiet.org.uk/low-carb-diets/

• Eggs: eggs are a great source of protein and have exclusive antioxidants. Furthermore, they are very low in fat, contain vitamin A, B12, B2 and B5 and plenty of amino acids. Finally, they also contain a substance called choline, which affects, in turn, the production of acetylcholine. The latter has been associated with mediating intelligence, mood and memory.

• Canned Tuna: this is great for light lunches or snacks. It contains mercury, so it shouldn’t be eaten every day. You can think of having it once a week. It benefits your diet because it contains Omega 3, iron, potassium and Vitamin B12. Also, you can easily vary and eat it with vegetables, low-fat mayonnaise, potatoes or salad.

• Plain yogurt: this is great as a dessert, snack or for breakfast. It is a great source of calcium and it helps your gastric system to function correctly.

• Tomatoes: high in vitamin A, C, calcium and potassium, tomatoes are great for your eyes, and are also anticarcinogenics.

• Spinach: Popeye was right. Spinach is a great source of iron, magnesium, many antioxidants and is also a very easy-to-cook vegetable. It is also a source of folic acid, and it is better to steam it than boil it.

• Beans: a cup of beans is a great source of fibers. Their consumption is also thought to reduce the risk of heart disease, type-2 diabetes and high blood pressure. You should regularly mix and match and use them in salads or in soups.

• Broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage: these are vegetables that make you feel full fast and are great to fight cancer, heart disease and other life-threatening illnesses. Again, steaming them is the best way to cook them.

So next time you get to the supermarket, remember this list of helpful foods you could get more of instead of the usual crisps!

Remember: variation is very important. It is key not only because if you vary, you don’t get bored of what you are eating but also because your body needs several different nutrients and you need to keep the balance right. Obviously, if you have been diagnosed with diabetes or a weight-related condition then you must first of all stick to your doctor’s or nutritionist’s advice.

Click here for more tips on how to make a healthy grocery list.