Embarking on a weight loss journey is never easy, especially when hunger pangs strike and threaten to derail your progress. I’ve been there, and over the past 133 weeks, I’ve honed a strategy that has allowed me to shed 130 pounds and maintain that loss for a decade. The secret? Filling up on foods that satisfy without piling on the calories. In this blog, I’m excited to share the 10 low-calorie, belly-filling foods that played a crucial role in my transformation. These aren’t just your typical diet foods; they’re tasty, versatile, and will keep you full longer, making the path to your healthiest self a little bit smoother. Whether you’re a long-time follower or a first-time reader, thank you for joining me on this journey—let’s dive in!

Mixed Berries

One of the most important things I learned during my weight loss journey is the power of fiber. Foods high in fiber digest slowly, helping you feel full for a longer period of time. Mixed berries became my go-to for satisfying that sweet tooth while ensuring I stayed on track. A one-cup serving of a four-berry blend contains only 70 calories and packs in 4 grams of fiber. This isn’t just a topping for yogurt or French toast; mixed berries work wonders in protein ice cream or even as a standalone snack, especially when purchased frozen. They’re budget-friendly, long-lasting, and always available right when you need them.

Frozen Peaches

Another delightful discovery was frozen peaches. At just 45 calories and 2 grams of fiber per cup, these goodies became a staple in my meals, from French toast toppings to Greek yogurt enhancers. What I loved most was not needing to worry about spoiling fresh fruit; I could enjoy two full cups of peaches for under 100 calories, making my meals feel larger and more satisfying.

Fairlife 0% Milk

Protein is another key factor in maintaining fullness. Fairlife’s 0% Milk was a game-changer for me with its 14 grams of protein and only 80 calories per cup—substantially more than regular milk. Not only did it enrich my cereals and protein pancakes, but its versatility made it an essential part of savory dishes like mac and cheese and mashed potatoes. This milk doesn’t just supplement meals; it transforms them into protein-packed powerhouses that leave you feeling full and satisfied.

Honey Nut Cheerios

Speaking of cereal, Honey Nut Cheerios were another surprising ally. You usually wouldn’t associate eating cereal with losing weight, but Cheerios, with 140 calories, 3 grams of protein, and 3 grams of fiber per cup, paired with Fairlife milk, became a staple snack. It was incredibly filling, staving off hunger for hours—something I didn’t expect from such a beloved breakfast classic.

Plain Fat-Free Greek Yogurt

Plain, fat-free Greek yogurt might not seem appetizing at first glance, but when you control the flavors, it transforms into a versatile culinary canvas. With 17 grams of protein and only 100 calories per three-quarter cup, it’s a fantastic base for various toppings. We enhanced it with low-calorie syrups and protein powders, like our favorite Maple cookie flavor. It’s also an excellent swap for higher-calorie ingredients in baking, allowing for delicious, low-calorie treats.

SmartPop Popcorn

For those needing that snack with munchable volume, SmartPop popcorn became my evening ritual. A whole bag contains about 13 cups of popped goodness but only totals 240 calories, delivering 8 grams of fiber and 7 grams of protein. It’s the perfect companion for big appetites like mine, made even better with low-calorie seasonings to keep things exciting.

Fiber One Choco Fudge Brownie Bars

The surprise treat on the list is Fiber One’s Choco Fudge Brownie bars, offering a dessert-like indulgence with 90 calories and 5 grams of fiber per bar. These bars curbed my cravings and provided the satisfaction of eating a real brownie, minus the guilt. Topped with low-calorie whipped cream and chocolate sauce, it felt like a real indulgence while keeping me full.

GV Strawberry and Yogurt Protein Bars

GV’s strawberry and yogurt protein bars came along as another handy snack, delivering 11 grams of protein in an easy-to-transport package. At 150 calories per bar, these were great for on-the-go decisions, whether on long road trips or just running errands around town.

Christy Arrowroot Biscuits

Costco’s Christy Arrowroot Biscuits became a favorite cookie substitute, providing a surprising 3 grams of protein in a five-cookie serving, all for 150 calories. Delighting in these with peanut butter or crumbled over yogurt allowed some flexibility and creativity in my meal plans while satisfying my craving for something crunchy and sweet.

Smoked Black Forest Ham

Lastly, deli meat, specifically smoked Black Forest ham, became a breakfast staple, replacing high-calorie bacon for a leaner option. Two slices provide 12 grams of protein at only 70 calories. Whether it was rolled up for a quick snack or layered onto low-calorie pizzas and sandwiches, the smoked ham added protein, taste, and variety without breaking the calorie bank.

My journey has not only been about losing weight but doing so in a sustainable way. Finding foods that are both filling and low in calories helps develop a healthy relationship with food and makes the process much more enjoyable. I hope that by sharing these tips and foods, you too can find balance and satisfaction in your own journey. Remember, it’s not just about what the scale shows—it’s also about feeling good in your heart and mind. You got this!