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Eat these 15 low calorie, high fibre foods to stay fit and lose weight

A low-calorie, high-fibre diet not only aids weight loss but also keeps your digestion smooth and lowers the risk of diabetes.
Updated On: 17 Sep 2025, 05:31 pm IST
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low calorie high fibre
Enjoy these low calorie high fibre foods to manage weight! Image courtesy: Adobe Stock

A low calorie high fibre diet is usually linked with weight loss, but its benefits go beyond that. Even if losing weight is not your goal, this diet can help keep your heart healthy, improve digestion, and lower the risk of diabetes. The problem with many weight loss foods is that they are often low in fibre, which may lead to constipation. That is why balancing low-calorie choices with fibre-rich foods is important. Vegetables like broccoli, spinach, and carrots, or fruits such as berries, not only keep you full but also support regular bowel movements. So, if you are planning a diet that is both healthy and sustainable, adding low calorie high fibre foods is a smart move.

What are the benefits of low calorie high fibre diet?

Consuming an adequate amount of dietary fibre is associated with several health benefits, says dietitian and nutritionist Garima Goyal. On average, Americans are only able to eat about 16 grams of fibre a day, while 25-30 grams is the recommended amount, according to the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

1. Digestive health

Following a low calorie high fibre diet means that your body will get an adequate amount of fibre. This reduces the risk of developing diverticular disease by promoting optimal bowel function. It also helps with constipation.

2. Heart health

Soluble fibre, found in oats, barley, and fruits, helps reduce LDL cholesterol levels, contributing to a lower risk of heart disease. Consuming fresh vegetables for heart health is a must.

3. Blood sugar control

Soluble fibre, which your body will get if you follow the low calorie high fibre diet, slows down the absorption of sugar, helping maintain stable blood sugar levels. Check out these herbs to lower blood sugar as well.

A woman with a weighing scale
A low calorie high fibre diet helps you in weight management. Image courtesy: Freepik

4. Weight management

Including fibre-rich foods in a weight-loss plan can enhance the effectiveness of calorie control and contribute to sustainable weight loss. Check out some high protein snacks, which are great for weight management.

5. Colorectal health

A low calorie high fibre diet, especially from whole grains and vegetables, is associated with a lower risk of developing colorectal cancer.

Low calorie high fibre diet: Foods to eat

1. Berries (raspberries, blackberries, strawberries) –

  • Fibre Content: Berries are rich in dietary fibre, with around 3-8 grams per cup.
  • Nutritional Value: Packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.
  • Calories: Approximately 50-60 calories per cup.

2. Broccoli

  • Fibre Content – Broccoli provides about 5 grams of fibre per cup (cooked).
  • Nutritional Value: High in vitamins C and K, and a good source of folate.
  • Calories: Roughly 55 calories per cup (cooked).

3. Carrots

  • Fibre Content: Carrots contain around 3.5 grams of fibre per cup (cooked).
  • Nutritional Value: Rich in beta-carotene, vitamins, and minerals.
  • Calories: Approximately 50 calories per cup (cooked).

4. Spinach

  • Fibre Content: Spinach provides about 4 grams of fibre per cup (cooked).
  • Nutritional Value: High in iron, vitamins A and K, and folate.
  • Calories: Roughly 40 calories per cup (cooked).

Also Read: 5 foods in your kitchen right now that are bursting with dietary fibre

5. Cauliflower

  • Fibre Content: Cauliflower has approximately 2 grams of fibre per cup (raw).
  • Nutritional Value: A good source of vitamins C and K.
  • Calories: About 25 calories per cup (raw).
A woman picking up cabbage
Cabbage should be part of your low calorie high fibre diet. Image courtesy: Freepik

6. Brussels sprouts

  • Fibre Content: Brussels sprouts offer around 4 grams of fibre per cup (cooked).
  • Nutritional Value: Rich in vitamins C and K, and a good source of antioxidants.
  • Calories: Approximately 60 calories per cup (cooked).

7. Zucchini

  • Fibre Content: Zucchini provides about 2 grams of fibre per cup (cooked).
  • Nutritional Value: Low in calories and a good source of vitamins C and B6.
  • Calories: Roughly 20 calories per cup (cooked).

8. Kale

  • Fibre Content: Kale has approximately 3 grams of fibre per cup (raw).
  • Nutritional Value: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and a good source of calcium.
  • Calories: About 35 calories per cup (raw).

9. Cucumber

  • Fibre Content: Cucumbers provide around 0.5 grams of fibre per ½ cup (sliced).
  • Nutritional Value: Low in calories and a good source of hydration.
  • Calories: Roughly 10 calories per ½ cup (sliced).

10. Celery

  • Fibre Content: Celery contains approximately 1.5 grams of fibre per 2 medium stalks.
  • Nutritional Value: Low in calories and a good source of vitamins K and C.
  • Calories: About 15 calories for 2 medium stalks.

11. Asparagus

  • Fibre Content: Asparagus provides about 2 grams of fibre per cup (cooked).
  • Nutritional Value: A good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate.
  • Calories: Approximately 30 calories per cup (cooked).

12. Bell Peppers (especially red and yellow)

  • Fibre Content: Bell peppers contain around 3 grams of fibre per cup (sliced).
  • Nutritional Value: High in vitamins A and C, and a good source of antioxidants.
  • Calories: Roughly 30 calories per cup (sliced).

13. Lettuce (especially Romaine)

  • Fibre Content: Lettuce provides approximately 1 gram of fibre per cup (shredded).
  • Nutritional Value: Low in calories and a good source of vitamins A and K.
  • Calories: About 5 calories per cup (shredded).

14. Green Beans

  • Fibre Content: Green beans offer around 4 grams of fibre per cup (cooked).
  • Nutritional Value: High in vitamins C and K, and a good source of minerals.
  • Calories: Approximately 40 calories per cup (cooked).

15. Cabbage

  • Fibre Content: Cabbage is a high fibre food as it contains about 2 grams of fibre per cup (shredded).
  • Nutritional Value: A good source of vitamins C and K, and a cruciferous vegetable with potential health benefits.
  • Calories: Roughly 20 calories per cup (shredded).

A low calorie high fibre diet is good for health, but eating too much fibre can negatively impact your body. Some of the side effects of eating too much fibre are cramping, intestinal gas as well and abdominal bloating. If you want to eat more fibre-rich foods, do it gradually and have a sufficient amount of water.

Related FAQs

How can I get more fibre without calories?

You can get more fibre with less calories in your diet by consuming a host of vegetables and fruits such as carrots, spinach, berries and broccoli.

What food is highest in fibre?

Artichoke, beans, broccoli, as well as passion fruit and avocado have the most fibre and must be consumed.

Which fibre is best for weight loss?

Soluble fibre is the best for weight loss as it helps to control appetite. Once your appetite is suppressed, you are less likely to consume more calories.

How to get 40g of fibre per day?

To get 40g of fibre every day, make sure to have a healthy mix of lentils, fruits as well as vegetables and whole grain cereals in your diet.

Disclaimer: At Health Shots, we are committed to providing accurate, reliable, and authentic information to support your health and well-being. However, the content on this website is intended solely for informational purposes and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalised advice regarding your specific medical condition or concerns.

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About The Author
Anjuri Nayar Singh
Anjuri Nayar Singh

Anjuri Nayar Singh has over 12 years of experience in writing for various topics including lifestyle, films, television and OTT. She also writes on art and culture, education and human interest stories.

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