The Best Low-Calorie Foods To Help You Lose Weight And Stay Full, According To Dietitians
From protein-packed snacks to fiber-forward treats.
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If you're interested in losing weight, you're probably aware that taking in less calories than you burn (a.k.a. calorie deficit) can help. With that, it only makes sense to reach for low-calorie foods to fill you up and help you achieve your weight loss goals.
Of course, having just any low-calorie food isn't the way to go—you want to make sure you're picking options that help you stay healthy and satiated while losing weight. "It's important to cover your nutrient bases," says dietitian Jessica Cording, RD, author of The Little Book of Game-Changers. At baseline, it's important to try to hit the same basic macros at every meal: protein, fat, and carbs, says Vanessa Rissetto, RD, the CEO and co-founder of Culina Health. "Then, add or substitute lower-calorie foods for more fullness," she adds.
Consider these 25 low-calorie foods next time you hit your local grocery store. They've been handpicked by nutritionists to help you reach your weight loss goals while still doing your health—and taste buds—a solid.
Meet the experts: Emily Morgan, RDN, is a clinical dietitian at Stanford Health Care. Jacqui Brockman, RD, is a nutritionist and dietitian for Goldman Sachs and Downstate Medical Center's STAR Health Center. Vanessa Rissetto, RD, is the CEO and co-founder of Culina Health. Jessica Cording, RD, is a New York-based nutritionist and author of The Little Book of Game-Changers. Lauren Minchen, RDN, is a dietitian based in New York City.
Lauren Dresner is a New York City-based writer with a psychology and premedical background. When she isn’t writing, reading, or listening to her favorite wellness/lifestyle podcasts, she’s tackling her fitness goals and experimenting with various cooking projects.
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