Definition of Low Calorie Foods
Low-calorie foods are foods that have a relatively small number of calories compared to their serving size. These foods can help you feel full and satisfied without consuming a lot of calories, which can be beneficial if you’re trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.
Low-calorie foods often contain high amounts of water, fiber, and nutrients, such as fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. They allow you to eat larger portions while still keeping your calorie intake in check.
What is Zero Calorie Food?
Zero-calorie foods, also known as “Negative-calorie” or “Calorie-free” foods, are believed to have an extremely low number of calories.
The idea behind these foods is that the body burns more calories to digest them than the calories they actually contain.
In reality, there are no truly zero-calorie foods, as all foods contain some calories.
However, some foods like celery, cucumber, and lettuce have very low calorie content and high water or fiber content, which can make them a good choice for weight management or healthy snacking.
List of Top 33 Very Low Calorie Foods
1. Leafy greens:
Spinach, kale, and arugula are low in calories and packed with nutrients.
2. Broccoli:
Rich in fiber and vitamins, this vegetable can help keep you full.
3. Cauliflower:
A versatile low-calorie vegetable that can replace higher-calorie ingredients in recipes.
4. Cabbage:
Another low-calorie, fiber-rich vegetable that can be enjoyed in various dishes.
5. Celery:
With high water content and minimal calories, celery makes a great snack.
6. Cucumber:
A hydrating and low-calorie vegetable that can be added to salads or enjoyed with dips.
7. Zucchini:
Zucchini, also known as courgette, is a nutrient-rich and low-calorie vegetable that has gained popularity as a healthy alternative to traditional pasta. Zucchini can be spiralized into “zoodles” (zucchini noodles), offering a nutritious and low-carb option for those looking to reduce their carbohydrate intake or increase their consumption of vegetables.
8. Tomatoes:
These low-calorie fruits are rich in vitamins and can be added to various dishes.
9. Bell peppers:
Packed with flavor and antioxidants, bell peppers add color and nutrients to meals.
10. Carrots:
A sweet and crunchy low-calorie snack that’s high in vitamin A.
11. Asparagus:
A delicious vegetable that’s low in calories and high in nutrients like folate.
12. Green beans:
A low-calorie, fiber-rich food that can be enjoyed steamed or roasted.
13. Mushrooms:
Low in calories and rich in minerals, mushrooms can be a filling addition to meals.
14. Berries:
Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are low-calorie fruits rich in antioxidants.
15. Grapefruit:
This citrus fruit has been linked to weight loss and is low in calories.
16. Apples:
A high-fiber, low-calorie fruit that can help satisfy your sweet tooth.
17. Melon:
Watermelon, cantaloupe, and honeydew are low-calorie fruits with high water content.
18. Oranges:
A low-calorie fruit packed with vitamin C.
19. Kiwi:
This fruit is low in calories and rich in vitamin C and fiber.
20. Pineapple:
A tropical fruit with low calories and natural sweetness.
21. Greek yogurt:
A high-protein, low-calorie option that can help keep you full.
22. Cottage cheese:
Another protein-rich, low-calorie dairy option.
23. Egg whites:
A low-calorie, high-protein food that can be used in various recipes.
24. Lean meats:
Chicken breast, turkey, and lean cuts of beef and pork are lower in calories than fattier meats.
25. Fish:
Tuna, cod, and other white fish are low in calories and high in protein.
26. Shrimp:
A low-calorie, high-protein seafood option.
27. Tofu:
A versatile plant-based protein that’s low in calories.
28. Lentils:
A low-calorie, high-fiber legume that can help keep you full.
29. Chickpeas:
Another low-calorie, high-fiber legume, perfect for salads or as a snack.
30. Popcorn:
When air-popped and without added fats, popcorn is a low-calorie, high-fiber snack.
31. Almond milk:
A low-calorie alternative to dairy milk.
32. Pickles:
Low in calories, pickles can add crunch and flavor to meals (choose low-sodium versions).
33. Sugar-free gelatin:
A low-calorie dessert option that can help satisfy a sweet craving.
Very Low Carb Foods with Calories and Nutrients for Weight Loss
Food | Calories per 100g | Important Nutrients |
Celery | 14 kcal | High water content, vitamins A, C, and K |
Cucumber | 15 kcal | High water content, vitamins K and C |
Pickles | 18 kcal | High water content, vitamin K (choose low-sodium versions) |
Asparagus | 20 kcal | Folate, vitamins A, C, and K |
Zucchini | 17 kcal | High water content, vitamins A and C |
Lettuce | 17 kcal | High water content, vitamins A, C, and K |
Bell peppers | 20 kcal | Vitamins A, C, and B6, antioxidants |
Spinach | 23 kcal | Vitamins A, C, and K, iron, calcium |
Kale | 35 kcal | Vitamins A, C, and K, calcium, iron |
Arugula | 25 kcal | Vitamins A, C, and K, calcium |
Cauliflower | 25 kcal | Vitamins C, K, and B6, fiber |
Cabbage | 25 kcal | Vitamins C and K, fiber |
Green beans | 31 kcal | Vitamins A, C, and K, fiber |
Broccoli | 34 kcal | Vitamins A, C, and K, fiber |
Grapefruit | 42 kcal | Vitamin C, high water content |
Strawberries | 32 kcal | Vitamin C, manganese, antioxidants |
Blueberries | 57 kcal | Vitamin C, vitamin K, antioxidants |
Raspberries | 52 kcal | Vitamin C, vitamin K, fiber |
Carrots | 41 kcal | Vitamin A, fiber |
Apples | 52 kcal | Vitamin C, fiber |
Pineapple | 50 kcal | Vitamin C, manganese |
Kiwi | 61 kcal | Vitamin C, vitamin K, fiber |
Oranges | 47 kcal | Vitamin C, fiber |
Melon | 34 kcal | High water content, vitamins A and C |
Tomatoes | 18 kcal | Vitamins A, C, and K, lycopene |
Mushrooms | 22 kcal | Vitamins B and D, minerals |
Tofu | 76 kcal | Protein, calcium, iron |
Lentils | 116 kcal | Protein, fiber, iron |
Chickpeas | 164 kcal | Protein, fiber, iron |
Greek yogurt | 59 kcal | Protein, calcium (non-fat) |
Cottage cheese | 98 kcal | Protein, calcium (low-fat) |
Egg whites | 52 kcal | Protein, vitamins D and B12 |
Popcorn | 90 kcal | Fiber, antioxidants (air-popped, no added fats) |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Best Low Calorie Food for Weight loss?
There isn’t a single “best” food, but incorporating a variety of low-calorie, nutrient-dense foods like leafy greens, lean protein, and whole grains can support weight loss.
What 3 Foods to Drop to Lose Weight?
Sugary drinks, processed snacks, and refined carbohydrates (e.g., white bread and pasta).
What Food has extremely Low Calories?
Celery, with only 14 kcal per 100 grams, is an example of a food with very low calories.
What are the top 5 foods for Weight loss?
Leafy greens, lean protein (e.g., chicken breast or tofu), berries, whole grains, and legumes.
Which Dal has Low Calories?
Moong dal (split and skinned green gram) is relatively lower in calories compared to other dals.
Is chapati good for Weight Loss?
Chapati can be part of a weight loss plan when consumed in moderation, as it is a good source of whole grains and fiber.
What are 2 Good Foods for Weight loss?
Greek yogurt (non-fat) and quinoa, both of which are high in protein and can help keep you full.
What are 5 tips for Weight loss?
- Consume a balanced diet with portion control
- Incorporate regular physical activity
- Stay Hydrated
- Prioritize sleep
- Manage stress.
Is Rice Low in Calories?
Rice is not particularly low in calories, but the calorie content varies depending on the type. White rice has approximately 130 kcal per 100g, while brown rice has about 112 kcal per 100g. Brown rice is a healthier choice due to its higher fiber and nutrient content. Learn more about Brown Rice Vs White Rice.
What Fruit has the Lowest Calories?
Among fruits, strawberries have one of the lowest calorie contents, with only 32 kcal per 100g.
How to burn calories?
To burn calories, engage in physical activities such as walking, running, swimming, cycling, or strength training. Increasing daily movement and participating in regular exercise can help burn more calories.
What are 10 Foods that Burn Fat?
- Green tea
- Chili peppers
- Whole grains
- Apple cider vinegar
- Legumes
- Lean protein (e.g., chicken breast or tofu)
- Fatty fish (e.g., salmon or mackerel)
- Nuts (e.g., almonds or walnuts)
- Grapefruit
- Berries
What is the number 1 best diet?
There isn’t a single “best” diet for everyone, as individual needs and preferences vary. However, a well-balanced diet rich in whole foods, fruits, vegetables, lean protein, whole grains, and healthy fats is generally recommended for overall health and weight management.
Is Papaya Low in Calories?
Yes, Papaya is relatively low in calories, with approximately 43 kcal per 100g.
Is Apple a negative calorie food?
No, apples are not a negative calorie food. They contain approximately 52 kcal per 100g. However, they are low in calories and high in fiber, making them a good choice for weight management. Learn more about Calories in Apple
How to Lose Weight Without Exercising?
To lose weight without exercise, focus on creating a calorie deficit by consuming fewer calories than your body needs to maintain its current weight. You can achieve this by eating a well-balanced diet with portion control, staying hydrated, getting enough sleep, and managing stress. However, incorporating physical activity is highly recommended for overall health and can aid weight loss.