Tasty, low-calorie snacks may seem like the unicorn of nutritious eats, but coming by these healthy foods might be easier than you may realize.
The key to finding foods that are filling, delicious, and energizing all while not breaking the bank in the caloric intake department is to strike the right balance between macro- and micronutrients across your meal. Avoiding the temptation to indulge in empty calories that ultimately don’t serve your body well also plays a role in this—but this component is a piece of cake when you have an assortment of nutritious, low-calorie snacks that are equally as delicious at your disposal.
“Many people snack on junk food or empty calories that are often high in sugar and saturated fat. While they might be satisfying in the moment, they typically crave another snack shortly after,” explains Amy Goodson, MS, RD, CSSD, LD, author of The Sports Nutrition Playbook and member of our Medical Expert Board. “Choosing snacks that are low to moderate in calories and contain fiber and protein will help you feel more satisfied and help keep you fuller longer.”
The benefits of snacking
When you choose the right foods, snacking has many benefits.
Now that you understand why snacking can be a healthy habit and have a general sense of how to make smart snack choices, you’re probably still wondering which particular satiating low-calorie snacks are highly recommended by experts in the nutrition space. Well, we’ve got you covered!
The 30 best low-calorie snacks
Check out this roundup of 30 low-calorie snacks that are as delicious as they are filling—and for more tips to help you make smart snacking choices, be sure to also read 6 Healthy Snack Ideas To Slow Aging.
“There is something nostalgic for me about a turkey rollup as a snack!” says Caroline Thomason, RD, LDN, CDCES. “It is a great source of lean protein and helps me create more stable energy levels between meals when I am short on time.”
“Compared to rice or wheat crackers, buckwheat crisps have more protein and comparable fiber content,” explains Thomason. “I love Maine Crisps Co.,” Thomason recommends. For added flavor that will still keep this snack in the low-cal zone, top with a bit of Swiss or goat’s milk cheese when craving something savory or drizzle with a dash of honey to craft a sweet treat.
“Plain Greek yogurt provides 15–17 grams of high-quality protein per 6-ounce serving, depending on the brand,” says Goodson.
The protein will help you stay fuller longer, and when paired with fiber from berries, you have a nutrient-rich, satisfying snack for under 150 calories.”
