Sunday, January 24, 2021
  • Home
  • Deals
  • Advertising
  • Contact Us
Bodybuilding, Fitness, CrossFit, Strongman and Powerlifting
  • Mr. OlympiaHOT
  • Workouts
    • All
    • Arms
    • Back
    • Cardio
    • Chest
    • Core
    • Legs
    • Workout Plans
    How to Avoid Hip Pain

    13 Ways to Avoid Hip Pain in The Gym

    Calisthenics Training

    Calisthenics Training: A Beginner’s Guide

    Metcon Exercises and Workouts:

    Fun and Effective Metcon Exercises and Workouts for Big Guys

  • Nutrition
    • All
    • Essential Nutrients
    • Nutrition Tips
    Ronnie Coleman

    What Did Ronnie Coleman Eat in His Prime?

    Healthiest Ways To Eat Eggs

    Eggcellent Nutrition Tips: Healthiest Ways To Eat Eggs

    Break Through Keto Plateau

    How To Break Through Keto Plateau and Achieve New Fat Loss

  • Training
  • Exercises
    • All
    • Arms
    • Back
    • Chest
    • Core
    • Legs and Glutes
    • Shoulders
    Bent-Over Two-Arm Dumbbell Row Guide and Videos

    Bent-Over Two-Arm Dumbbell Row Guide and Videos

    Kroc Rows Vs Pendlay Rows

    Kroc Rows Vs. Pendlay Rows – Which One Is Best?

    Dumbbell Lying Pronation

    Dumbbell Lying Pronation Exercise Guide and Videos

    Side Delt Exercises

    Best Side Delt Exercises for Broader, More Powerful Shoulders

    Dumbbell Lying Rear Lateral Raise

    Dumbbell Lying Rear Lateral Raise Exercise Guide and Videos

    Long Head Triceps Exercises

    The Best Long Head Triceps Exercises for Thicker, Stronger Arms

    Dumbbell Lying Triceps Extension

    How To Do The Dumbbell Lying Triceps Extension

    Box Jump Exercise Guide

    Box Jump Exercise Guide – Muscles Worked, How-to, Tips, and Variations

    Dumbbell Iron Cross Exercise

    Dumbbell Iron Cross Exercise Guide and Videos

  • Food FactsTrending
  • News
    • Deals
    • Videos
    • Bodybuilding
    • CrossFit
    • Powerlifting
    • Strongman
    • MMA
  • Reviews
    • All
    • Lifting Gear & Accessories
    • Supplements
    Pre Workouts Without Creatine

    12 Best Pre-Workouts Without Creatine For 2021

    Powerlifting Singlet

    Powerlifting Singlets: All You Need To Know (Reviewed)

    Best Workout Shoes

    16 Best Workout Shoes For Better Performance in 2021

    Trending Tags

    • Ample
    • pre-workout
    • Meal Replacement
    • Pre-Kaged
No Result
View All Result
Fitness Volt: Bodybuilding, Fitness, CrossFit, Strongman and Powerlifting
  • Mr. OlympiaHOT
  • Workouts
    • All
    • Arms
    • Back
    • Cardio
    • Chest
    • Core
    • Legs
    • Workout Plans
    How to Avoid Hip Pain

    13 Ways to Avoid Hip Pain in The Gym

    Calisthenics Training

    Calisthenics Training: A Beginner’s Guide

    Metcon Exercises and Workouts:

    Fun and Effective Metcon Exercises and Workouts for Big Guys

  • Nutrition
    • All
    • Essential Nutrients
    • Nutrition Tips
    Ronnie Coleman

    What Did Ronnie Coleman Eat in His Prime?

    Healthiest Ways To Eat Eggs

    Eggcellent Nutrition Tips: Healthiest Ways To Eat Eggs

    Break Through Keto Plateau

    How To Break Through Keto Plateau and Achieve New Fat Loss

  • Training
  • Exercises
    • All
    • Arms
    • Back
    • Chest
    • Core
    • Legs and Glutes
    • Shoulders
    Bent-Over Two-Arm Dumbbell Row Guide and Videos

    Bent-Over Two-Arm Dumbbell Row Guide and Videos

    Kroc Rows Vs Pendlay Rows

    Kroc Rows Vs. Pendlay Rows – Which One Is Best?

    Dumbbell Lying Pronation

    Dumbbell Lying Pronation Exercise Guide and Videos

    Side Delt Exercises

    Best Side Delt Exercises for Broader, More Powerful Shoulders

    Dumbbell Lying Rear Lateral Raise

    Dumbbell Lying Rear Lateral Raise Exercise Guide and Videos

    Long Head Triceps Exercises

    The Best Long Head Triceps Exercises for Thicker, Stronger Arms

    Dumbbell Lying Triceps Extension

    How To Do The Dumbbell Lying Triceps Extension

    Box Jump Exercise Guide

    Box Jump Exercise Guide – Muscles Worked, How-to, Tips, and Variations

    Dumbbell Iron Cross Exercise

    Dumbbell Iron Cross Exercise Guide and Videos

  • Food FactsTrending
  • News
    • Deals
    • Videos
    • Bodybuilding
    • CrossFit
    • Powerlifting
    • Strongman
    • MMA
  • Reviews
    • All
    • Lifting Gear & Accessories
    • Supplements
    Pre Workouts Without Creatine

    12 Best Pre-Workouts Without Creatine For 2021

    Powerlifting Singlet

    Powerlifting Singlets: All You Need To Know (Reviewed)

    Best Workout Shoes

    16 Best Workout Shoes For Better Performance in 2021

    Trending Tags

    • Ample
    • pre-workout
    • Meal Replacement
    • Pre-Kaged
No Result
View All Result
Bodybuilding, Fitness, CrossFit, Strongman and Powerlifting
No Result
View All Result
Home Nutrition

35 Low-Calorie Nutritious Foods You Should Be Eating

These foods are perfect if you’re trying to shed some extra pounds!

Matthew MagnantebyMatthew Magnante
August 3, 2019
Low Calorie Nutritious Foods

Low Calorie Nutritious Foods

  • 59shares
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Reddit
  • Flipboard
  • LinkedIn
  • WhatsApp
  • Telegram
  • Messenger

Low-calorie foods are the main nutritional focus for anyone trying to lose weight or just be healthier overall.

Now, a calorie is a measure of energy and so it’s important to be mindful of how many you’re taking in per day. Roughly 3,500 calories equal one pound of body weight and so you’ll need to adjust your diet accordingly to be in a consistent deficit.

But our calorie calculator and TDEE calculator can figure the numbers for you; however, the food choices are your responsibility and we want you to be responsible…

So, here’s a list of 35 low-calorie, nutritious foods you should be including in your diet…

1. Berries

Berries
Berries

Any type of berry from strawberries to blueberries and blackberries are all low-calorie fruits. They’re full of antioxidants which help to stave off illness and natural sugars which make them a good, clean source of energy. (1)

One cup of mixed berries: 70 calories

2. Lowfat Cottage Cheese

Low Fat Cottage Cheese
Low Fat Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is a popular snack, especially before bed since it contains a slow-releasing source of protein. But since it’s low fat and low sugar, it’s a super healthy, nutritious option. There’s plenty of B-vitamins for cell energy and DNA health, calcium for bone health, selenium and phosphorous. (2)

4oz cottage cheese: 82 calories

3. Rice Cakes

Rice Cakes
Rice Cakes

Rice cakes are usually made from dehydrated brown rice formed into a round shape. And they’re an excellent breakfast food since they’re a healthy carb source and are low calorie.

You can definitely dress them up with some almond butter and bananas; however, you’d be upping the calories but it’s just an option if you can fit it in your macros. 

One rice cake: 35 calories

4. Bananas

Bananas
Bananas

Bananas are known for having a decent amount of potassium (422mg or 12%), which is an essential mineral for heart health, nerves and muscle contractions. And if you need a quick snack without having to worry about going overboard with the calories, then banana is an excellent option. (3)

Blend it in your shakes or slice them up for your cereal… the possibilities are endless.

One medium banana: 105 calories

5. Chicken Breast

Chicken Breast
Chicken Breast

Chicken breast is a lean, high-protein food which is probably the most popular form of meat for fitness-minded people. But because it’s a lower-fat part of a chicken, there are fewer calories since fat makes food higher calorie.

Shop for quality chicken breast, and although it may come with a higher price tag, it’s worth it.

1/2 boneless and skinless chicken breast: 142 calories

6. Tofu

Tofu
Tofu

Tofu is a popular meat alternative option for vegetarians and vegans, made of soy. It’s got a decent amount of fat per serving (6g per 1/2 cup) and 10 grams of protein per 0.5 cup.

Soy is a complete plant protein containing all nine essential amino acids and research shows that soy lowers bad cholesterol and may be beneficial for blood pressure too. It also naturally has estrogenic and anti-estrogenic effects. (4, 5)

½ cup: 94 calories

7. Watercress

Watercress
Watercress

Watercress is one of the lowest-calorie foods you can eat and it’s also an aquatic plant species which is pretty neat! So if you’re trying to lose weight, you can eat these and not feel guilty. There’s zero fat in a serving and watercress is also a good source of vitamin A (Eye health and growth/development) and Vitamin C (Immune health). (6, 7)

One cup chopped watercress: 4 calories

8. Kale

Kale
Kale

There are so many things you can do with this nutritious, dark leafy green… add it to any dish or bake them for a crispy snack. But leafy greens are also low-calorie which is great for the health-minded individual.

There’s 2.9 grams of protein per 1 cup, plus a very generous amount of Vitamin A (133%), Vitamin C (134%), 10% of Vitamin B-6, and 7% magnesium.  

One cup chopped: 33 calories

9. Spinach

Spinach
Spinach

Spinach isn’t just Popeye’s leafy green of choice but it’s also a staple in many diets around the world due to its nutrient-dense nature. Spinach contains Iron (Healthy oxygen transport), protein (Muscle growth), Vitamin D (bone growth and immune function), and more. (8, 9, 10)

One cup raw or ½ cup cooked spinach: 7 calories

10. Chard

Chard
Chard

Chard is a healthy, leafy green that also boasts a super low-calorie profile with Vitamin A and C. You can sautee it with onions and garlic, then combine it with your meat or vegan food option of choice, although it doesn’t contain as many nutrients as other green options.

But it’s still nice to have a variety in any diet.

One cup of chard: 7 calories

11. Leaf Lettuce

A healthy salad is a great way to spice up any meal because you can add so many tasty foods to it. But if you’re going low-calorie then be careful what you include because the calories can add up really quickly.

But you can also use leaf lettuce in your sandwiches or as a wrap around your food of choice.  

One cup shredded leaf lettuce: 5 calories

12. Tuna

Tuna fish is a high protein, low-fat food when in water and it’s low calorie. Chunk light contains 70 calories with .5g of fat and 16g of protein. Plus, you get EPA and DHA omega-3s which can only be obtained through fish or supplementation.

Omega-3s are important for heart health, cell membranes, inflammation control and many other functions in the body. (11)

One 3oz can chunk light Tuna: 70 calories

13. Protein Shake

Protein Shake
Protein Shake

Protein shakes are an amazing way to get your much-needed protein intake for the day. They are generally low calorie, low fat, low sugar, and high protein, which is beneficial for supporting muscle growth.

Protein shakes are versatile because you can add additional ingredients to make them even tastier.

Calories vary but protein shakes generally have anywhere from 90 calories to 150. This is just an average and it really depends on the product.

14. Almond/Soy Milk

These plant-based milk alternatives are often preferred over their dairy counterpart for health reasons and they’re also very low calorie. But they also have a pleasant, nutty flavor, while containing 2.5g of fat per serving.

You can use Almond/Soy milk in your cereal, for protein shakes, with recipes, and for anything else that it’s suitable for as a liquid addition.

One cup of almond/soy milk: 30 calories

15. Eggs

Boiled Eggs
Boiled Eggs

It’s hard to beat an egg (Pun intended) for its nutritional value…

An egg is a very pure form of protein (6g on average) and at roughly 70 calories per one; it’s hard to not include them in your diet. They make the perfect breakfast protein and are one of the most versatile foods in existence.

Eggs are healthy despite what the media says but moderation is key. Cholesterol content is generally high with an egg having an average of 4.5-5 grams of fat.

The American Heart Association recommends no more than 1 egg or 2 egg whites per day. (12)  

But contrary to the long-time belief that yolks are bad for you, it actually contains most of the nutrition. But you can eat only the whites for pure protein and even fewer calories.

One large egg: 70 calories

16. Apple

Green Apples
Green Apples

Apples are muy deliciosa (Very delicious) and depending on the type, you can get your sugar fix for the day (Healthier sugar) although it’s always best to keep sugar intake on the lower end.

They have a decent amount of fiber, Vitamin C and even antioxidants.

But they make a great snack anytime.

One medium apple: 95 calories

17. Asparagus

Asparagus
Asparagus

Asparagus is a delicious green veggie and when cooked to perfection, it’s the perfect addition to any meal. But they’re actually pretty low calorie and you’ll still be well under your limit if you decide to eat a bunch of them.

Asparagus contains a lot of vitamins and minerals but most people would never guess they’re composed of mostly water. (13)

One spear: 3 calories

18. Boiled Chestnuts

Chestnuts are tasty although they may not be the most nutritious nut overall. But they do contain vitamins and minerals while having benefits for digestive health. (14)

One ounce boiled chestnuts: 37 calories

19. Beets

Beets
Beets

Beets have a decent amount of potassium and fiber but they do contain some sugar although not very high amounts. They’re a good source of Vitamin C, with some iron and magnesium but they supply a little of most of the important vitamins and minerals we need.

Beets also have a positive effect on blood pressure. (15)

One cup: 59 calories

20. Soup

Soup
Soup

There are so many varieties of soups out there but it’s generally known that light soups are low in calories. Unless of course, you pile it up with cheese, sour cream, etc.

Chicken noodle and veggie soups are generally pretty low calorie and one study even showed that eating soup before a meal reduces your overall caloric intake. This is good for those trying to shed some pounds. (16)

Calories vary

21. White Fish

Fish is high in protein and it contains essential fatty acids our bodies cannot produce on its own. Tilapia contains about 100 calories per fillet and 3oz of Cod has 70 calories.

One study found that satiety was greater after eating fish than eating beef and chicken. And this can go a long way to reaching weight loss goals quicker. (17)

3oz Cod: 70 calories

22. Legumes

Pea, beans, lentils… legumes are low calorie and very filling.

One cup of cooked lentils contains about 230 calories and they are indeed filling as anyone would know who eats them regularly. They contain iron, vitamins, and minerals as well.

Boil them and then add in some of your favorite herbs and seasonings.

One cup lentils: 230 calories

23. Watermelon

Watermelon
Watermelon

The perfect summer fruit, watermelon is a crowd favorite which contains many vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Watermelon is composed of more than 90% water and supplies plenty of electrolytes to stay hydrated.

And according to the National Watermelon Promotion Board, watermelon contains more lycopene than any other fruit. Lycopene gives the red color and it’s also a strong antioxidant which is involved in the disease-fighting process. (18)

One cup diced: 46 calories

24. Scallops

If you want another good seafood option then go with scallops. Seafood is great when you season it up and it can replace meat for some meals. 3oz contains a whopping 20g of muscle-building protein, with just 95 calories.  

3oz scallops: 95 calories

25. Celery

Celery
Celery

Celery might be the most popular vegetable for dipping. You can slap some nut butter of your choice inside or have it with your favorite veggie dip. It’s also rich in antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins.

But they’re amazing in soups, or any dish really!

100 grams: 16 calories

26. Popcorn

Popcorn
Popcorn

Popcorn is a light snack with 3.6 grams of fiber (Digestive health) per 1 oz. and 3.1g of protein. But an ounce of popcorn takes up more volume since it’s lighter and it’s a relatively low-calorie food. Of course, though, the munching can get out of hand with this fun treat but just be mindful of your quantities.

1oz of popcorn: 106 calories

27. Oatmeal

Oatmeal is generally pretty low-calorie based on normal serving size and the fiber will keep you full. But oatmeal is also well-known for its benefits regarding healthy cholesterol. (19)

The Food and Drug Administration actually allows health claims on oatmeal packaging claiming to help reduce coronary heart disease by lowering cholesterol.

28. Cucumber

Cucumber
Cucumber

Cucumbers are mostly water and they’re great in just about anything because they’re both healthy and crunchy. They contain fiber plus a decent amount of vitamins C, K, and the minerals magnesium, and potassium. (20, 21)

One cup: 16 calories

29. Skim Milk

Skim milk contains fewer calories and fat than 1%, 2% and regular, whole milk. I cup contains 86 calories, with 8 grams of protein, 0.44g of fat, plus 30% calcium, and 12% potassium which is pretty good.

It might not taste quite as delicious as whole milk but it’s subjective.

One cup: 86 calories

30. Protein Bars

Best Tasting Protein Bars
Best Tasting Protein Bars

Protein bars are necessary nutritional tools for people on the go, or who just don’t feel like making a meal. They’re an alternative to protein shakes and some people prefer them.

One Quest bar contains 200 calories, 21g of protein, 8g of fat, 4 net carbs, 1g of sugar, and 15g of fiber. They’re super tasty and there is an endless number of flavors to choose from.  

One Quest bar: 200 calories

31. Potato

Healthy Potatoes
Healthy Potatoes

Potatoes are very versatile food because there are so many things you can make with them. Potatoes are a good source of carbs for energy but one medium potato is high in potassium, fiber, vitamin C, vitamin B-6 and magnesium.

Baked is the way to go for a healthy option.

One medium potato: 163 calories

32. Greek Yogurt

Greek Yogurt
Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt is a low-fat, low carb, and high protein food choice. You can add honey, seeds, granola, and fruit for even more nutrition.

But yogurt also contains probiotics for gut health since it provides healthy gut bacteria. (22)

½ cup: 85 calories

33. Plums

Plums
Plums

Plums are a sweet, tasty treat for any time and you’ll never believe how many calories one has… only 30 calories! That’s right, so go ahead and enjoy two of them.

It’s a low glycemic food and a good source of vitamin C.

One plum: 30 calories

34. Grapefruit

Grapefruit
Grapefruit

Grapefruit is loaded with lots of vitamin C and with phytochemicals. (23)

But a study showed it to cause significant weight loss and positive effects on blood glucose levels. (24)

You can even add some powdered sweetener or make it into a fresh juice.

½ medium: 65 calories

35. Sugar Snap Peas

Sugar snap peas are a good source of fiber for digestion and immune-boosting vitamin C while also being pretty low in calorie content. 

Peas of any kind are a staple as a vegetable source but sugar snap peas add a nice crunch to any dish.

One cup: 60 calories

Final Thoughts

These low-calorie foods are tasty, versatile, and nutritious. You have essentially every food group here and if your goal is weight loss or to be healthier overall, then look no further.

Each food has something to offer in the way of health which is important when choosing your foods.

For the latest news and updates please follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.
  • 59shares
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Reddit
  • Flipboard
  • LinkedIn
  • WhatsApp
  • Telegram
  • Messenger

Join our list

Subscribe to our mailing list and get interesting stuff and updates to your email inbox.

Thank you for subscribing.

Something went wrong.

We respect your privacy and take protecting it seriously

Categories: Nutrition Nutrition Tips
Tags: CaloriesLow Calorie FoodNegative Calorie Foods
Previous Post

IFBB Tampa Pro 2019 Results & Highlights

Next Post

2019 CrossFit Games Day 3: Thorisdottir, Sigmundsdottir, Wells, Briggs, and Horvath Eliminated

Matthew Magnante

Matthew Magnante

Matthew Magnante is the senior writer for Fitness Volt. He has had a passion for fitness since elementary school and continues to research and learn how to build muscle effectively through training and diet. He also loves to help others to achieve their fitness goals and spread the knowledge where needed. Matthew's other passions include learning about mindfulness, strolling through nature, and always working to improve overall.

Related Posts

Julia Vins
Powerlifting

Julia Vins Shares Tips To Counting Calories And Looking Fit

Calorie Counting in Bodybuilding
Diet

The History of Calorie Counting in Bodybuilding

Negative Calorie Foods
Nutrition Tips

Negative Calorie Foods: Do They Create a Net Loss of Energy?

Bodybuilder Breakfast Ideas
Nutrition Tips

10 Simple High-Protein Bodybuilding Breakfast Ideas

Brian Shaw Eat 12,000+ Calories A Day
Fat Loss

Don’t Count Calories And Lose Fat

Comments 1

  1. Avatar Sharani Marie says:
    9 months ago

    Thanks for this list of nutritious low-calorie foods. I find it extremely helpful that you also included how many calories there are in one serving. I use this free tdee calculator in order for me to determine how many calories I should consume in a day. This guide is so helpful and I will definitely be listing down these foods with their equivalent calorie count. Thanks again!

    Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

  • Trending
  • Comments
  • Latest
Larry Wheels Deadlift PR

Larry Wheels Hits All-Time Personal Record With Earth Shattering 855lb Deadlift Triple, Gets Injured

Ronnie Coleman

What Did Ronnie Coleman Eat in His Prime?

Blessing Awodibu

Blessing Awodibu Is A Shredded 287lb As He Begins Prep For Pro Debut

Ben Chow Luke Sandoe

Ben Chow, Fouad Abiad Respond To New Details of Luke Sandoe’s Death

Hafthor Bjornsson Covid 19

Hafthor “Thor” Bjornsson Gets Covid-19 Following Exhibition Boxing Match

Bent-Over Two-Arm Dumbbell Row Guide and Videos

Bent-Over Two-Arm Dumbbell Row Guide and Videos

Laura Bass

Former Bodybuilder Laura Bass Dies at 49

Recent Reviews

Pre Workouts Without Creatine

12 Best Pre-Workouts Without Creatine For 2021

Powerlifting Singlet

Powerlifting Singlets: All You Need To Know (Reviewed)

Best Workout Shoes

16 Best Workout Shoes For Better Performance in 2021

Fitness Volt

At FitnessVolt.com our mission is to educate and inform you about the latest in professional bodybuilding, fitness, and sports-related content. We believe you should have the best information at your fingertips to help you reach your fitness goals and to stay up to date on everything happening in the bodybuilding, fitness and strength sports industry... Read more.

Email: sm(at)fitnessvolt.com

Disclosure: FitnessVolt.com has an affiliate relationship with different brands and is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. However, our reviews are based on well research backed analysis.
FitnessVolt.com - 1700 Lincoln St. Denver, CO. 

Follow Us

Trending Topics

  • Mr. Olympia 2020
  • Bodybuilding
  • Strongman
  • Powerlifting
  • CrossFit
  • At Home Workouts
  • Bodyweight Exercises
  • Best Pre-workouts
  • Boost Testosterone
  • German Volume Training
  • Protein-Packed Foods
  • Jefferson Deadlift
  • What Is Hypertrophy

Calculators

    • IF Calculator
    • TDEE Calculator
    • Calorie Calculator
    • Keto Calculator
    • RMR Calculator
    • Macronutrient Calculator
    • Creatine Calculator
    • Wilks Calculator
    • EER Calculator
    • FFMI Calculator
    • IBW Calculator
    • LBM Calculator
    • Fat Intake Calculator

 

  • Food Nutrition Analysis
  • Carb Cycling Calculator
  • Weight Gain Calculator
  • Calories Burned Calculator
  • Strength Standards
  • One Rep Max Calculator
  • Body Fat Calculator
  • EER Calculator
  • Weight Loss Percentage
  • Treadmill Calorie Calculator
  • Body Surface Area Calculator
  • Running Pace Calculator
  • Bench Press Calculator
  • Protein Calculator
  • Water Intake Calculator
  • About
  • Write For Us
  • Advertise
  • Contact
  • Syndication
  • Scholarship
  • Sitemap
  • DMCA
  • Copyrights
  • Terms
  • Privacy

© Copyright 2010 - 2021 Fitnes Volt IBC. All Rights Reserved.

No Result
View All Result
  • Mr. Olympia
  • Bodybuilding
  • Powerlifting
  • Strongman
  • CrossFit
  • Workouts
  • Exercise Guides
    • Arms
    • Back
    • Chest
    • Core
    • Legs and Glutes
    • Shoulders
  • Training
  • Nutrition
  • Reviews
  • More
    • Diet
    • News
    • Motivation
    • Videos
    • Food Facts
    • Deals
    • Fitness Calculator

© Copyright 2010 - 2021 Fitnes Volt IBC. All Rights Reserved.

42975