If you're trying to lose weight, you're probably looking for foods that are not only low-calorie, but filling and tasty too. After all, the right foods can help keep you satisfied and motivated to eat well, whereas the wrong ones -- think bland, boring diet foods that leave you hungry -- can make you want to give up altogether. Luckily, there are plenty of foods that can fill you up and satisfy your taste buds without weighing you down.
Fruits and Vegetables
According to the American Heart Association, fruits and vegetables are nutritional superstars and can help you manage your weight. The high fiber content in fresh produce fills you up, yet most fruits and vegetables are low in calories; for example, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's MyFood-a-pedia states that a medium apple contains only 72 calories and two cups of raw spinach contain a mere 14 calories. Apples contain stomach-satisfying pectin and taste sweet to boot, while raw spinach makes a healthy, filling base for a fresh green salad.
Lean Protein
Protein can be a diet-friendly, filling food if you pick the right kind. The Harvard School of Public Health explains that protein moves slowly through your digestive system, so it helps you feel full longer than other foods do. But to keep it low-calorie, choose lean proteins like white-meat poultry, egg whites, fish, soy products, beans and legumes, rather than fatty options like bacon, ground beef, steak or sausage.
Dairy Foods
Dairy foods are another category that can be low-calorie if you choose your options carefully. While whole milk, full-fat ice cream, cheese, cream and butter are high-calorie choices, other dairy products are great-tasting and filling for a reasonable calorie count. Skim milk, nonfat yogurt and part-skim cheeses have protein to fill you up but won't blow your day's calorie allotment. And even low- or nonfat frozen yogurt can be a diet-friendly tasty treat to have on occasion.
Considerations
Keep in mind that even fruit, vegetables, lean proteins, and dairy products can contain a lot of calories if your portion sizes are excessive. Many people load their plates with portions that are akin to two or more recommended servings, sabotaging their calorie-counting efforts. To control portion sizes, try eating from smaller plates and bowls, or consult a registered dietitian for more information about proper portions for you. Once you've got that down, enjoy expanding your tastes with diverse tasty, healthy foods.
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