Healthy living is trending upward, but the truth is many people struggle to find foods that they can eat without gaining weight. This is partly due to the modern diet of ultra-processed, high-calorie, high-fat foods, which can contribute to weight gain — not to mention a host of health issues — over time.
Eating foods that are low in calories but high in nutrients can provide a variety of health and well-being benefits. These “nutrient-dense” foods can help ensure that the body gets the vitamins, minerals and other essential nutrients it requires without eating too many calories. They also help to increase energy, improve mental clarity and support a healthy immune system.
Eating healthy doesn’t have to consist of boring meals of chicken, veggies and rice! And you can eat more than just tofu. So we’ve rounded up a list of the top 10 delicious foods you can indulge in without worries of packing on the pounds.
These foods range from high satiating foods to veggies made up mostly of water that will keep you feeling nice and full without the guilt!
1. Tomatoes
Tomatoes are not only a delicious addition to meals but also a fantastic choice for weight management. With their high water content and low calorie count, they make for a satisfying and hydrating snack. They are also rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant known for its potential to support heart health and reduce the risk of certain cancers.
Tomatoes are also known for their skin and health benefits, as well as their versatility in meal recipes and snacks. They’re packed with vitamins, including A and C, potassium, chromium and folate. Plus they are a good source of fiber.
2. Blueberries
Blueberries, like other berries, are a low-calorie snack coming in at 85 calories per serving. In addition to their fat-burning properties, blueberries are full of flavor and nutritional benefits. These small berries are loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall well-being.
Blueberries are particularly known for their anti-aging effects on the brain and may help improve memory and cognitive function. They’re also a good source of fiber and delicious when paired with yogurt, oatmeal or pancakes.
3. Grapefruit
Grapefruit is often touted as a weight loss superfood for good reason. Its high water and fiber content make you feel full, helping you control your hunger and manage your calorie intake. Moreover, grapefruit contains compounds that can enhance the body’s fat-burning ability, making it an excellent choice for those aiming to shed pounds.
Grapefruit can help lower blood sugar levels and contains magnesium, potassium and vitamin C, which boosts the immune system. Did you know that a whole grapefruit contains just a few hundred calories and meets 60% of your daily vitamin C needs?
4. Broccoli
While some people avoid green veggies like the plague, broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable that should definitely be on your weight loss radar. Not only is it low in calories, but it’s also packed with nutrients that support overall health.
Broccoli is rich in fiber, which aids digestion and helps keep you feeling satisfied. It’s also a good source of vitamins A and C, which are essential if you want a strong immune system.
5. Cauliflower
Cauliflower is a versatile vegetable that can be enjoyed in various forms, from roasted florets to cauliflower rice. It’s an excellent choice for weight management because it is low in calories and high in fiber, which aids in digestion and helps prevent overeating.
Cauliflower is also rich in vitamin C, which supports collagen production for healthy skin.
6. Celery
Celery is made up of mostly water — up to 95% is water content — making it filling and low in calories. It’s packed with several vitamins and nutrients, including folate, fiber, potassium, and vitamins A, C, and K.
With only 6 calories per serving, celery is a crunchy and refreshing snack that can help curb your appetite while providing essential nutrients. It can also help reduce bloating and water retention due to its electrolyte content.
7. Greek yogurt
Greek yogurt is popular in the health and fitness community due to its high protein content and probiotic benefits. The protein in Greek yogurt helps promote satiety and supports muscle recovery after exercise.
Additionally, the probiotics in Greek yogurt promote a healthy gut microbiome, which plays a role in weight management and overall well-being.
8. Chia seeds
Chia seeds are a powerhouse of nutrition that can aid in weight management. These tiny seeds are rich in fiber, which expands in the stomach and promotes a feeling of fullness. They also contain healthy fats and protein, making them a satisfying addition to meals and snacks.
Chia seeds can be soaked to create a gel-like consistency, making them a great base for puddings or as an egg substitute in baking recipes.
9. Coconut
Coconut is a unique food that offers a range of health benefits while being a tasty addition to your diet. Despite being high in fat, coconut is most made up of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are metabolized differently by the body compared to other fats. MCTs are quickly made into energy, so they’re less likely to be stored as body fat.
Coconut is also rich in fiber, which aids digestion and helps keep you feeling satisfied.
10. Salmon
Salmon is not only a delicious seafood option but also a nutritious choice for weight management. Packed with high-quality protein and healthy fats, including omega-3 fatty acids, salmon provides a sense of satiety while promoting heart health and reducing inflammation in the body. Its nutrient profile makes it an ideal food to have after you work out. If we could choose one, we’d say it’s one of the healthiest foods to add to your diet.
The bottom line…
To sum it all up, eating a healthy diet is critical to achieving and maintaining a healthy weight. Fortunately, there are many foods that won’t cause you to gain weight, such as leafy greens, berries and eggs. Incorporating the AM/PM Thermo Stack into your weight loss journey can also be beneficial in terms of boosting metabolism, increasing energy levels, promoting relaxation and decreasing hunger.
