10 Low Calorie Snacks To Get You Through Your Diet
Staying on track when you’re dieting can be a huge challenge, especially when you get the cravings to munch on something. That’s when temptation sets in and you start thinking about all the junk food and sugary snacks that you want, but your body doesn’t really need. Resist those cravings and stock your kitchen with healthier low-calorie snacks to keep the hunger at bay.
1. Carrot or celery sticks
If you’re feeling something crunchy then why not go for some chopped carrot and celery sticks? Crisp and refreshing, both are low in fat and calories. They require little prep time and can be easily stored in containers – just grab a serving from the fridge when you’re feeling peckish.
Per serving: 30 calories per 100g
2. Fruit salad
Fruit is a great source of vitamins and minerals and counts towards your 5-a-day. A fruit salad is an easy snack to make and one that’s flexible and lets you choose your favourites. A teaspoon of honey can be added into the mix for some sweetness to balance out the tart and sour flavours.
Per serving: 5o-100 calories depending on the fruit used
3. Watermelon slushie
AÂ slushie is the perfect cool-me-down treat to have on a hot summer day and it takes less than five minutes to make! It’s a simple recipe: just add frozen watermelon cubes, lime juice and a tablespoon of sugar or honey to a blender or food processor.
Per serving: 50 calories per cup
4. Greek yoghurt
Greek yoghurt has double the protein and half the sugar and fewer carbs than traditional yoghurt. Studies have also shown that this alternative helps with weight loss, with users reportedly burning more fat. Fruit and honey can be added to this tart snack to make it a little sweeter and give more texture.
Per serving: 100 calories per cup
5. Protein shakes
For the days when you’re craving a milkshake try drinking a protein shake instead. They come in a range of flavours and fruit can also be blended into the mix. The calorie counts for protein shakes vary depending on the type, brand and liquid used. For fewer calories use whey powder rather than soy powder. Also add water or skimmed-milk, rather than regular milk, if you’re looking to reduce your fat intake.
Per serving: 100-150 calories per cup
6. Kale chips
While it’s not the tastiest thing on the planet, kale is a great source of minerals, vitamins A, C and K, as well as calcium and fibre. Switch out high-fat chips for kale chips when you crave a crunchy treat.
1 serving: 50 calories per cup
7. Low-calorie ice cream
If you’re looking for something sweet but aren’t in the mood for fruits, then try out a tub of low-calorie ice cream. It’s the same creamy goodness, just without the guilt. There are so many different brands available in supermarkets with different flavours and textures.
Per serving: 50-100 calories depending on the brand. Entire tubs are usually 300-400 calories.
8. Home-made popcorn
High in fibre and low in calories, popcorn is the perfect snack during a movie or series binge. If you want even fewer calories then avoid adding butter or oil. For more flavour salt it lightly and add a pinch of pepper.
Per serving: 30 calories per cup
9. Seaweed
Roasted seaweed is a low-calorie snack that’s naturally salty and a great alternative to crisps. It’s high in potassium, protein and fibre, and low in saturated fat. Roasted seaweed can be purchased in supermarkets or at your local Asian grocery store. You could also make your own at home by coating nori sheets in sesame oil and roasting them in the oven. Just make sure to dab off the excess oil when you’re done!
Per serving: 4-5 calories per sheet
10. Edamame
Edamame is a protein heavy snack and a great alternative to almonds and other nuts that contain more fat. The snack is rich in the antioxidant kaempferol which aids in causing weight loss and lowers blood sugar.
Per serving: 180Â calories per cup
