This guide to the 10 Best Low Calorie Meats includes everything you need to know about the healthiest meats for weight loss. Including calories, protein and tips on shopping for low calorie meat.
Are you looking for a way to incorporate meat into your diet without consuming too many calories?
If so, you’re in luck! In this article, we’ll be discussing the 10 best low calorie meats that you can enjoy guilt-free.
From chicken to fish, I’ve got you covered with options that are both delicious and healthy.
How to Shop for Low Calorie Meats
When you’re trying to stick to a low calorie diet, it’s important to choose the right cuts of meat. Here are a few tips for selecting low calorie meats at the grocery store:
- Look for lean cuts: Choosing lean cuts of meat is key when trying to keep your calorie count low. Look for labels that say “lean” or “extra lean” on beef, pork, and other meats.
- Opt for skinless: If you’re buying poultry, look for skinless options. Chicken breast and turkey breast are both great choices.
- Check the fat content: When buying ground meat, be sure to check the fat content on the label. Ground beef with 90% or higher lean meat is a good option.
- Choose seafood: Seafood is generally lower in calories than other meats. Look for options like tuna, cod, shrimp, scallops, and crab.
- Watch the serving size: Even low calorie meats can add up if you eat too much. Be sure to check the serving size and adjust your portions accordingly.
By following these tips, you can make sure you’re choosing the best low calorie meats for your diet.
The 10 Best Low Calorie Meats for Weight Loss
Meat is a great source of protein and can be an excellent addition to any diet. However, many types of meat can be high in calories, which can make it difficult to enjoy without overdoing it.
Fortunately, there are plenty of low calorie options that you can choose from that won’t sabotage your weight loss goals. Here are the 10 best low calorie meats for weight loss and maintenance.
1. Chicken Breast
Chicken breast is one of the most popular choices for those looking for a low calorie meat option.
A skinless, boneless chicken breast contains around 165 calories and 31 grams of protein.
This low calorie meat is also a great source of vitamin B6 and niacin, which can help boost your metabolism and promote healthy skin.
- 3-ounce serving:
- 140 calories
- 26 grams of protein
- 3 grams of fat
2. Turkey Breast
Turkey breast is another excellent choice for a low calorie meat option.
Like chicken breast, it’s high in protein and low in calories, with a 3-ounce serving containing around 125 calories and 26 grams of protein.
This low calorie meat is also a great source of selenium, which can help support your immune system.
- 3-ounce serving:
- 130 calories
- 26 grams of protein
- 2.5 grams of fat
3. Lean Beef
While beef is often associated with being high in calories, there are lean cuts that can be enjoyed without worrying about your waistline.
Top sirloin and round steaks are both great options that contain around 150 calories per 3-ounce serving, along with plenty of protein and iron.
- 3-ounce serving:
- 154 calories
- 26 grams of protein
- 5 grams of fat (2 grams of saturated fat)
4. Pork Tenderloin
Pork tenderloin is a lean cut of meat that can be enjoyed without worrying about consuming too many calories.
It contains around 120 calories per 3-ounce serving, along with plenty of protein and B vitamins.
This low calorie meat is also a great source of selenium, which can help boost your immune system.
- 3-ounce serving:
- 93 calories
- 18 grams of protein
- 2 grams of fat
5. Bison
Bison is a lean, red meat that’s becoming increasingly popular as a low calorie meat option.
It contains around 143 calories per 3-ounce serving, along with plenty of protein and iron.
Bison is also lower in fat than beef and is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation in the body.
- 3-ounce serving:
- 122 calories
- 24 grams of protein
- 2 grams of fat
6. Venison
Venison is another lean red meat option that’s packed with protein and low in calories.
It contains around 134 calories per 3-ounce serving, along with plenty of iron and vitamin B12.
Venison is also a great source of zinc, which can help support a healthy immune system.
- 3-ounce serving:
- 134 calories
- 26 grams of protein
- 2.5 grams of fat
7. Fish
Fish is an excellent low calorie option that’s high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Some of the best low calorie fish options include salmon, tuna, and tilapia.
A 3-ounce serving of salmon contains around 175 calories and 22 grams of protein, while a 3-ounce serving of tilapia contains just 110 calories and 21 grams of protein.
- Tuna 3-ounce serving
- 70 calories
- 16 grams of protein
- 1 gram of fat
- Cod 3-ounce serving:
- 70 calories
- 15 grams of protein
- 1 gram of fat
- Salmon 3-ounce serving:
- 121 calories
- 17 grams of protein
- 5 grams of fat (1 gram of saturated fat)
8. Shrimp
Shrimp is another excellent low calorie option that’s also high in protein.
A 3-ounce serving of shrimp contains just 84 calories and 18 grams of protein.
This low calorie meat is also a great source of selenium and vitamin B12, which can help support your immune system and promote healthy brain function.
- 3-ounce serving:
- 84 calories
- 18 grams of protein
- 1 gram of fat
9. Scallops
Scallops are another great low calorie seafood option that’s high in protein and low in fat.
A 3-ounce serving of scallops contains around 94 calories and 19 grams of protein.
This low calorie meat is also a great source of magnesium and potassium, which can help support healthy blood pressure levels.
- 3-ounce serving:
- 94 calories
- 19 grams of protein
- 1 gram of fat
10. Crab
Crab is a delicious low calorie seafood option that’s also packed with protein.
A 3-ounce serving of crab contains just 98 calories and 20 grams of protein.
Crab is also a great source of vitamin B12, which can help support healthy brain function.
- 3-ounce serving:
- 98 calories
- 20 grams of protein
- 1 gram of fat
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Absolutely! Incorporating lean meats like the ones we’ve listed here can be an excellent way to get the protein you need without consuming too many calories.
Yes! Most of the meats on our list are lean cuts that are low in fat, making them a great option for those looking to keep their calorie and fat intake in check.
Yes, you can! Lean cuts of red meat like bison and venison can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a healthy, low calorie diet.
Fish can be an excellent choice for a low calorie diet, as it’s high in protein and low in calories. However, lean meats like chicken and turkey can also be great options.
Yes! There are plenty of delicious recipes that incorporate low calorie meats and are packed with flavor. Just be sure to choose healthy cooking methods like grilling, baking, or broiling instead of frying.
Absolutely! Substituting low calorie meats for higher calorie options can be an excellent way to reduce the overall calorie count of your favorite recipes without sacrificing flavor.
Final Thoughts
Incorporating low calorie meats into your diet can be an excellent way to get the protein you need without consuming too many calories.
From chicken and turkey to seafood and lean cuts of beef and pork, there are plenty of options to choose from. Just be sure to choose healthy cooking methods and incorporate plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your diet for a well-rounded, healthy meal plan.
So, what are you waiting for? Try incorporating one of these delicious low calorie meats into your next meal and enjoy all the flavor and nutrition without the guilt!
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