Are you trying to eat healthier and watch your calorie intake? Incorporating vegetables into your diet is a great way to achieve this. However, not all vegetables are created equal when it comes to calories. In this article, we will explore the lowest calorie vegetables and why some vegetables have higher calories than others.
What are the lowest calorie vegetables?
The lowest calorie vegetables are those that are high in water content and fiber but low in fat and calories. Some of the lowest calorie vegetables include cucumber, celery, broccoli, cauliflower, and spinach.
Why do some vegetables have higher calories than others?
Vegetables that have higher calories are those that are starchy, such as potatoes, corn, and peas. Starchy vegetables contain more carbohydrates and calories than non-starchy vegetables like leafy greens and cruciferous vegetables.
The benefits of eating low-calorie vegetables
Eating low-calorie vegetables has many benefits, including weight loss, improved digestion, and reduced risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. Incorporating more low-calorie vegetables into your diet can also help you feel fuller for longer and reduce cravings for unhealthy foods.
Here are 18 of the lowest calorie vegetables:
Approximate calorie count per 100g:
- Cucumber – 15 kcal
- Celery – 16 kcal
- Radish – 16 kcal
- Lettuce – 18 kcal
- Spinach – 23 kcal
- Broccoli – 34 kcal
- Cauliflower – 25 kcal
- Tomatoes – 18 kcal
- Zucchini – 17 kcal
- Bell peppers – 20 kcal
- Carrots – 41 kcal
- Green beans – 31 kcal
- Asparagus – 20 kcal
- Brussels sprouts – 43 kcal
- Cabbage – 25 kcal
- Eggplant – 25 kcal
- Kale – 49 kcal
- Onion – 40 kcal
Please note that the calorie count may vary slightly based on factors such as the method of preparation and cooking.
Tips for incorporating low-calorie vegetables into your diet
There are many ways to incorporate low-calorie vegetables into your diet. You can add them to salads, soups, stir-fries, and smoothies. You can also snack on them with dips like hummus or guacamole. Experiment with different vegetables to find your favorites.
In conclusion, incorporating more low-calorie vegetables into your diet is an easy and delicious way to promote healthy eating and reduce your calorie intake. By choosing vegetables like cucumber, celery, broccoli, cauliflower, and spinach, you can enjoy the benefits of a healthy diet without sacrificing taste or satisfaction.