21 Low-Calorie Snacks That Keep You Full and Help Shed Pounds
Finding healthy snacks that are both satisfying and conducive to weight loss can be challenging. Many snacks are loaded with hidden sugars, unhealthy fats, or empty calories that can derail your weight loss goals. The key is to choose snacks that are low in calories but high in protein, fiber, and nutrients to keep you full and energized throughout the day. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of healthy snacks that can help you lose weight without feeling deprived or hungry. These options are delicious, easy to prepare, and perfect for any time of day.
1. Greek Yogurt with Berries
Greek yogurt is an excellent high-protein snack that helps keep you full for longer. Adding fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries boosts the fiber content and adds natural sweetness without extra sugar. The antioxidants in berries also provide numerous health benefits, making this snack both nutritious and satisfying.
2. Apple Slices with Peanut Butter
A combination of apple slices and natural peanut butter offers a perfect balance of fiber, protein, and healthy fats. The crunch of the apple complements the creamy texture of peanut butter, making it a delicious and filling snack. This pairing can help curb sweet cravings and keep you energized until your next meal.
3. Carrot Sticks with Hummus
Carrot sticks are low in calories but high in fiber and beta-carotene, which is good for eye health. Pairing them with a few tablespoons of hummus not only adds flavor but also provides protein and healthy fats. This combo is perfect for those who want a crunchy, satisfying snack that supports weight loss.
4. Almonds
A small handful of almonds (about 23 nuts) makes for a nutrient-dense snack that is rich in healthy fats, protein, and fiber. While almonds are calorie-dense, they help control hunger and keep you full longer. Just be mindful of portion size to avoid consuming too many calories.
5. Cucumber Slices with Cottage Cheese
Cucumber slices are low in calories and high in water content, making them a hydrating and refreshing snack. When paired with cottage cheese, you get an additional boost of protein and calcium. This snack is light yet filling, making it perfect for a midday pick-me-up.
6. Hard-Boiled Eggs
Hard-boiled eggs are a simple, protein-packed snack that is easy to prepare in advance. Each egg contains around 6 grams of protein and is rich in essential vitamins like vitamin D and B12. Eggs are low in calories but filling, making them an excellent choice for those looking to lose weight.
7. Edamame
Edamame, or young soybeans, are a great source of plant-based protein and fiber. A small bowl of steamed edamame with a sprinkle of sea salt makes a satisfying, low-calorie snack. This snack helps keep you full and provides a good amount of essential nutrients.
8. Rice Cakes with Avocado
Rice cakes are low in calories and provide a light, crunchy base. Topping them with mashed avocado adds healthy fats and fiber, which help you stay full longer. This combination creates a satisfying snack that is both tasty and supportive of weight loss goals.
9. Celery Sticks with Light Cream Cheese
Celery sticks are extremely low in calories and have a high water content, which helps with hydration. Pairing them with a light cream cheese or low-fat cheese spread adds a touch of flavor and a bit of protein, making this a crunchy and satisfying snack option.
10. Chia Pudding
Chia seeds are packed with fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. When mixed with almond milk or coconut milk, they absorb the liquid and form a pudding-like consistency. This snack is filling, low in calories, and can be flavored with fruits or natural sweeteners for added taste.
11. Apple with Cheese Slices
Combining a fresh apple with a few slices of cheese gives you the best of both worlds: fiber from the apple and protein from the cheese. This snack is both sweet and savory, helping to keep you satisfied and prevent overeating at subsequent meals.
12. Popcorn
Air-popped popcorn is a whole grain and low-calorie snack that can be quite filling. It’s high in fiber, which can help with satiety. Just be sure to avoid butter and excessive salt; instead, season with herbs or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for flavor.
13. Roasted Chickpeas
Roasted chickpeas are a crunchy, high-protein snack that’s perfect for replacing chips or other unhealthy options. They are easy to prepare at home and can be seasoned in various ways, from spicy to savory, to keep things interesting.
14. Tuna Salad on Cucumber Slices
Tuna is a low-calorie, high-protein food that makes a great snack when combined with cucumber slices. The cucumbers provide a refreshing crunch, while the tuna adds the necessary protein to keep you full until your next meal.
15. Cottage Cheese with Pineapple
Cottage cheese is rich in protein and low in calories, making it a great option for weight loss. Pairing it with pineapple adds natural sweetness and a good dose of vitamin C, resulting in a refreshing and filling snack.
16. Dark Chocolate with Nuts
A small piece of dark chocolate paired with a few nuts can be both satisfying and beneficial. Dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa provides antioxidants, while the nuts add protein and healthy fats, making it a balanced, guilt-free treat.
17. Bell Pepper Slices with Guacamole
Bell peppers are low in calories and packed with vitamins, while guacamole provides healthy fats and fiber. The combination makes for a delicious, filling snack that helps keep you full without piling on the calories.
18. Kale Chips
Kale chips are a nutritious, low-calorie alternative to potato chips. They are rich in vitamins A, C, and K and can be easily made at home by baking kale with a little olive oil and seasoning. This crunchy snack is perfect for weight loss.
19. Turkey and Cheese Roll-Ups
Lean turkey breast rolled up with a slice of cheese makes for a low-carb, high-protein snack that is both satisfying and easy to make. It’s perfect for a quick bite that helps curb hunger without adding too many calories.
20. Frozen Grapes
Frozen grapes are a refreshing, low-calorie snack that can satisfy a sweet tooth. They provide fiber, vitamins, and hydration, making them a great alternative to sugary, high-calorie treats.
21. Zucchini Chips
Zucchini chips are a healthy, low-calorie alternative to traditional potato chips. They are easy to make by baking thin slices of zucchini with a little olive oil and your favorite seasonings. These chips provide a crunchy, satisfying texture without the extra calories.
