Costco, with its vast selection and bulk buying options, has been a game-changer in my weight loss journey. Having shed 130 pounds and maintained that loss for a decade, I’ve discovered that success lies in having a pantry stocked with staple low-calorie foods. These essentials not only support my health goals but also make meal preparation quick and enjoyable. While I’m not sponsored by Costco, the store’s variety and affordability have made it my go-to for sourcing the ingredients that keep my diet diverse and satisfying. In this blog, I’ll delve into the top 10 foods I never leave Costco without, and how they’ve transformed what could have been a daunting process into a seamless and sustainable lifestyle. Whether you’re looking to lose weight or simply want to make healthier food choices, these selections promise to keep your palate pleased while your calorie count stays in check.

Mixed Pack of Bubly Sparkling Water

The journey to losing weight and keeping it off is a marathon, not a sprint, and having a reliable selection of food staples can make all the difference. The first item on our Costco list is the mixed pack of Bubly sparkling water. This zero-calorie drink comes in delightful flavors such as mango, cherry, and blackberry, turning regular hydration into an enjoyable experience. The carbonation in Bubly is an excellent tool for making you feel fuller, especially in the gaps between meals. It’s a sensation that not only satisfies your thirst but can also help curb cravings, ensuring you stay on track throughout the day.

Mēano Thin Tortillas

Next up, we have the Mēano Thin Tortillas, which are a versatile and flavorful food option. Each tortilla contains just 90 calories and 17 grams of fiber, making them a fiber-rich choice that promotes fullness and satisfaction. Their versatility allows you to fulfill a variety of cravings by making lighter, healthier versions of pizza, burritos, quesadillas, and even sweet treats like hand pies. When you can create a satisfying version of whatever you’re craving, sticking to your diet plan becomes that much easier.

English Cucumbers

Another must-have Costco staple includes English cucumbers, which come in a convenient three-pack. These cucumbers are incredibly low in calories, with only eight calories per half-cup serving, making them a high-volume food that keeps you feeling full without adding to your calorie intake. Adding them to meals can enhance the volume of your plate, tricking your brain into feeling like you’re eating a lot despite being in a calorie deficit. It’s a tried-and-true method to help keep hunger at bay while maintaining a satisfying meal routine.

Grimm’s Lean Turkey Pepperoni

Grimm’s Lean Turkey Pepperoni is an ideal snack choice. With only 50 calories and 6 grams of protein per stick, this lean pepperoni is perfect for quick lunches or snack plates. Its portability makes it a great option for eating on-the-go. Since hunger often strikes unexpectedly while traveling or running errands, these pepperonis provide a convenient solution that keeps you from grabbing unhealthier options.

Kirkland’s Smoked Black Forest Ham

Kirkland’s Smoked Black Forest Ham is another excellent high-protein, low-calorie choice. Two slices pack 12 grams of protein and only 70 calories. It’s a staple for creating balanced sandwiches, snack boards, and even gracing grilled cheese sandwiches with an extra protein boost. This ham, stored conveniently in the fridge or freezer, ensures you always have a quick, protein-rich option at hand.

Dempster’s 100% Whole Wheat Bread

Dempster’s 100% Whole Wheat Bread is a breakfast staple that offers high fiber and protein. Two slices yield 170 calories and 7 grams of protein. Whole wheat options offer more staying power, helping you to feel full longer while providing the energy needed for an active lifestyle. Bread is not just for toasting; it can be used in imaginative ways from French toast to pizza bread, making sure you get a nutritional start to your day.

Frozen Fruit

Frozen fruit from Costco, including the Kirkland Whole Blueberries, Whole Strawberries, and Three Berry Blend, provide a delicious way to add low-calorie volume and flavor to your meals. A variety of frozen fruits ensures that you can always incorporate natural sweetness and nutrition in your diet, whether you’re topping yogurt, pancakes, or even baking.

Cīnnamin-Sweetened Vanilla Almond Milk

Cīnnamin-sweetened Vanilla Almond Milk offers an alternative to traditional milk with just 30 calories per cup. It’s a low-calorie way to add creaminess to your protein shakes, baking, and daily coffee without loads of added sugar or calories. The long shelf life ensures that you’re never out of this staple, promising a daily dose of creamy goodness that fits seamlessly into a fat loss plan.

Kirkland 0% Plain Fat-Free Greek Yogurt

Kirkland 0% Plain Fat-Free Greek Yogurt is a kitchen star, providing 17 grams of protein and only 100 calories per ¾ cup serving. This yogurt serves as a blank canvas for endless culinary possibilities. From creating Greek yogurt bowls flavored with fruits and protein powders to using it as a healthy substitute in baking, its high protein content and versatility make it indispensable.

Kirkland Egg Whites

Lastly, Kirkland Egg Whites come in a pack of three, offering a low-calorie, high-protein option that fits perfectly into breakfast routines or baking recipes. Half a cup delivers 11 grams of protein and a mere 50 calories. Egg whites are another food staple that can be used in many different ways—from omelets to protein ice cream—ensuring you have a protein boost whenever needed.

Your weight loss journey is just as much about consistency as it is about enjoyment. Incorporating these cost-effective, nutritious, and satisfying foods from Costco into your diet can help sustain your efforts for the long haul. These staples not only help you achieve your caloric goals but also ensure your meals remain satisfying and delicious. Remember, successful weight management is as much about what’s in your heart and mind as it is about what’s on your plate.