Surprising Low-Calorie Foods You Never Knew Were Diet-Friendly
Eating healthy doesn’t mean you have to give up delicious food. Many foods that seem high in calories are actually great for weight loss and overall health. Some of these low calorie foods might surprise you, as they can be both tasty and nutritious. If you're a student looking for healthy options that won’t break the calorie bank, check out these surprising choices.
Popcorn – The Ultimate Snack
Popcorn isn’t just for movie nights! When air-popped and eaten without butter, it is a low-calorie, high-fiber snack that keeps you full longer. One cup of air-popped popcorn has only about 30 calories, making it a great alternative to chips.
Watermelon – Sweet and Hydrating
Watermelon is mostly water, which means it’s refreshing and very low in calories. A cup of diced watermelon contains only 46 calories, but it provides essential vitamins like A and C. It’s a perfect snack for hot days.
Mushrooms – The Meaty Alternative
Mushrooms are often used as a meat substitute because of their rich texture. They are incredibly low in calories, with one cup of raw mushrooms containing only about 15 calories. They also provide important nutrients like vitamin D and antioxidants.
Zucchini – The Pasta Replacement
Zucchini can be spiralized into “zoodles” as a healthy substitute for pasta. One cup of zucchini noodles contains only 20 calories, compared to over 200 calories in traditional pasta. Plus, it’s packed with fiber and vitamins.
Cottage Cheese – A Protein-Packed Treat
Cottage cheese is an excellent source of protein while being low in calories. Half a cup contains about 80 calories and a good amount of calcium, making it ideal for muscle-building and bone health.
Celery – The Zero-Calorie Food?
Celery is often called a “zero-calorie” food because it takes more energy to digest than it provides. One large stalk has only about six calories, making it a great choice for guilt-free snacking.
Cabbage – A Versatile Superfood
Cabbage is incredibly low in calories but rich in vitamins and antioxidants. One cup of shredded cabbage has only about 22 calories. It’s a great addition to salads, soups, or stir-fries.
Strawberries – Naturally Sweet and Healthy
Strawberries are naturally sweet and contain fewer calories than you’d expect. A cup of strawberries has just 50 calories but is full of vitamin C and fiber, making it a smart choice for a healthy dessert.
Pickles – Crunchy and Guilt-Free
Pickles, especially the ones made from cucumbers with vinegar, are very low in calories. A medium-sized pickle contains only about 12 calories, making it a crunchy, salty snack option.
Radishes – Small but Mighty
Radishes are often overlooked, but they are very low in calories and rich in fiber. One cup of sliced radishes contains just 19 calories, making them a great addition to salads or dips.
Broccoli – The Ultimate Green Superfood
Broccoli is packed with nutrients while being low in calories. One cup of chopped broccoli has only about 55 calories but provides fiber, vitamin C, and other essential nutrients.
Oranges – A Low-Calorie Citrus Treat
Oranges are a great way to satisfy a sweet craving without consuming too many calories. One medium orange has around 60 calories, and it is full of vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system.
Beets – Sweet and Healthy
Beets are naturally sweet but surprisingly low in calories. A cup of sliced beets contains about 60 calories and is rich in iron and fiber. They can help improve circulation and overall heart health.
Helping with Low Blood Pressure When Pregnant
Eating a balanced diet with low-calorie foods can also support overall health. Some foods, such as watermelon and beets, are especially good for maintaining hydration and circulation. This is important because some women experience low blood pressure when pregnant, which can lead to dizziness and fatigue. Eating nutrient-rich, low-calorie foods can help provide essential vitamins without unnecessary weight gain.
Conclusion
Making small changes to your diet by including these low calorie foods can help you eat healthier without feeling deprived. Whether you are looking for snacks, meal replacements, or just something light and nutritious, these options offer great taste with fewer calories. Healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring—enjoy these foods while staying on track with your health goals!