Top 10 Food Options with the Least Calories

Broth-Based Soups

Soups made out of broths like vegetable, miso, or chicken are light and calorie-friendly. A cup of broth-based soup has around 50 calories. This option makes for a delicious and filling meal, especially when fresh vegetables and even lean protein like chicken are added.

Leafy Greens

All leafy greens have very few calories and are also full of fiber and nutrients! Some to consider include spinach, watercress, romaine lettuce, cabbage, and arugula. One cup of each of these is only 14 calories! Make a great salad by adding in other vegetables like tomatoes, carrots, peppers, and cucumbers.

Fruits

Like leafy greens, most fruits are very low calorie options. Some of the lowest calorie fruits are grapefruit, oranges, apples, kiwi, and berries. An orange has about 45 calories, an apple has 80, and a cup of strawberries has only 45! Add them to your breakfast, lunch, and dinner to make your meals more balanced and nutrient-rich.

Egg Whites

Egg whites, which are the protein part of the egg, contain very few calories. One egg white has just 17 calories. Boil them or poach them and top them with some herbs and spices. Add in some sides like a light salad or a piece of whole-grain toast for a more balanced breakfast.

Cauliflower

Cauliflower is a great low-calorie food that packs a nutritious punch! It has about 25 calories in one cup. It can also be used as a substitute for high-calorie foods like rice or potatoes. Try roasting it with some herbs or turning it into cauliflower “steaks” and roasting them with some olive oil.

Beans

Beans are full of fiber and protein and are also very low in calories. One cup of black beans has only 227 calories. Lentils are another great option that is high in protein and fiber and only has 115 calories in one cup. Use them to make soups, salads, and side dishes.

Eggplant

Eggplant is high in fiber and low in calories, with only 20 calories in one cup. Eggplant is also versatile and can be roasted, steamed, grilled, or even turned into noodles like with zucchini. Use some herbs and spices, like oregano and garlic, for extra flavor.

Mushrooms

Mushrooms are an earthy and delicious low-calorie option with about 5 calories in one cup. They have a savory and umami taste, making them popular for replacing meat in certain dishes. Try sautéing them with some herbs and spices and adding them to pasta, quesadillas, or omelettes.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are low in calories and have numerous health benefits. One cup has only 32 calories, and they are loaded with antioxidants and vitamins. Add them to salads, sandwiches, or pasta for a nutritious and low-calorie boost.

Cucumbers

Cucumbers are low in calories and have many health benefits. They are full of water and vitamins and only have 16 calories per cup. They can be eaten fresh, added to salads, or even used in recipes like pickles.

Conclusion

Finding low-calorie foods doesn’t have to be difficult. Many nutritious and delicious options exist, from broth-based soups to tomato and cucumber salads. Add some leafy greens and low-calorie fruits like berries to your meals for a more balanced plate. Try out some of these low-calorie food options and start living a healthier lifestyle!