Dieting can be tough, especially when you’re trying to lose fat in stubborn areas like your belly, hips, and love handles. Cutting calories often leaves you feeling deprived and hungry, which makes it hard to stick to your plan. But what if you could eat tasty foods that fill you up without packing on the calories? Great news—there are plenty of foods that do just that! In this article, we’ll explore a variety of low-calorie foods that can help you feel full while supporting your weight loss goals.
What Are Low-Calorie Foods?
Low-calorie foods are simply foods that contain fewer calories per serving than most. These foods are often high in water or fiber, which help you feel full without the extra calories. Eating these foods can be a great way to reduce your overall calorie intake, making weight loss easier without the feelings of deprivation.
Top Low-Calorie Foods to Help with Weight Loss
Shirataki Noodles
Also called miracle noodles, Shirataki noodles live up to their name. These noodles are made from konjac root and are packed with insoluble fiber. That’s the type of fiber your body doesn’t fully absorb, meaning you take in fewer calories. A serving of Shirataki noodles (8 oz) contains just about 20 calories, compared to 300 calories for regular pasta. These noodles are great for filling you up and are perfect for weight loss!
Slim Rice
If you prefer rice over noodles, you’ll love slim rice. Made from the same konjac root as Shirataki noodles, slim rice is a low-calorie alternative to traditional rice. A 100-gram serving contains only 7–9 calories, compared to over 100 calories for brown rice. Slim rice is also gluten-free and non-GMO, making it a healthy, low-calorie option for any meal.
Low-Calorie Vegetables to Add to Your Diet
Cucumbers
Cucumbers are refreshing and super low in calories—just 15 calories per 100 grams. They are 97% water, which helps fill you up without adding many calories. Plus, they may help control blood sugar, reducing hunger cravings throughout the day. For the best results, eat cucumbers with the skin on to get more fiber and nutrients.
Zucchini
If you’re a fan of pasta but want a low-calorie option, zucchini noodles are a fantastic alternative. Zucchini contains only 17 calories per 100 grams, compared to 131 calories in regular pasta. All you need is a spiralizer to turn zucchini into noodles. Add your favorite low-calorie sauce, and you’ve got a delicious, guilt-free meal.
Low-Calorie Snacks to Curb Cravings
Sugar-Free Jello
Need something sweet without breaking your diet? Sugar-free jello is the answer! With only 5–10 calories per serving, it’s a great snack for satisfying your sweet tooth. Jello contains gelatin, which helps reduce appetite and makes you feel full longer.
Pickles
Pickles are another tasty, low-calorie snack. One medium-sized pickle has only 1 gram of carbs and just 17 calories in a cup. Pickles come in different flavors, so whether you like them sweet or sour, there’s an option for you. Just watch out for their high salt content, which can cause bloating.
Low-Calorie Fruits to Keep You Full
Watermelon
Watermelon is a hydrating and low-calorie fruit. A 100-gram serving has only 30 calories and is 92% water, which makes it a filling option. Studies show that eating watermelon regularly can reduce hunger, leading to weight loss over time. Watermelon is also great for maintaining hydration, which is essential for weight loss and overall health.
Kiwi
If you’re struggling with late-night cravings, kiwi might be your new best friend. Research shows that eating kiwi before bed can help improve sleep quality. A typical kiwi contains only 42 calories, and its fiber content helps keep you full. Plus, better sleep supports weight loss by reducing stress and balancing your appetite.
Healthy Drinks and Condiments to Keep Calories Low
Diet Soda
Contrary to popular belief, diet soda may not be as bad for weight loss as once thought. Some studies show that artificial sweeteners can actually help reduce hunger. Just be mindful of how much you drink. While diet soda can be a tool for reducing sugar and calorie intake, water is always the best choice for hydration and overall health.
Mustard and Hot Sauce
Want to add flavor without the extra calories? Mustard and hot sauce are great choices! Mustard contains only 3 calories per teaspoon, and hot sauce is virtually calorie-free. These condiments can spice up your meals without making a dent in your daily calorie count.
Build a Low-Calorie, Satisfying Meal
If you want to put it all together, here’s an example of a low-calorie meal that’s filling and delicious:
- Start with a glass of water to help curb your appetite.
- Have a bowl of homemade tomato soup (59 calories).
- Add a noodle salad using Shirataki noodles, cucumbers, zucchini, and bok choy, tossed with a low-calorie dressing like Walden Farms.
- Finish your meal with a slice of watermelon or a kiwi for dessert.
This meal provides under 150 calories, but it’s packed with nutrients, fiber, and water to keep you full and satisfied.
Final Thoughts
Losing weight doesn’t mean you have to feel hungry all the time. By choosing the right foods, you can fill up while still staying within your calorie limit. From Shirataki noodles to watermelon, these low-calorie options make weight loss more enjoyable and sustainable. Remember, it’s about finding foods that work for you and keep you on track. Want to learn more about healthy weight loss options? Check out additional tips on WebMD or Healthline.
Eating right is key, but finding what works for you is just as important. Happy eating, and here’s to your health!