What's something that's 50 calories?

Over 70% of people snack at least once a day, but many are unaware of just how many tasty options are available for around 50 calories. This article explores some surprisingly satisfying snacks, from fruits to vegetables and even savory treats, proving that a calorie-conscious diet doesn't have to mean sacrificing flavor.

Quick Summary

A guide to healthy and delicious snacks that are approximately 50 calories. It features fruits, vegetables, and other light options for mindful snacking.

Key Points

• Mindful Snacking: A single Oreo cookie contains about 50 calories, while seven cups of raw spinach also contain 50 calories, demonstrating the difference between nutrient-dense and high-calorie snacks.

• Low-Calorie Fruits: A medium-sized apple, a kiwi fruit, or a cup of strawberries are all excellent fruit options that fall within the 50-calorie range.

• Voluminous Vegetables: Vegetables like celery stalks, cucumber, and bell peppers offer large, satisfying portions for minimal calories.

• Savory & Satisfying Options: One triangle of light cheese, a sachet of miso soup, or a handful of olives are savory choices that can curb cravings.

• Accurate Portions: Using measuring cups or a kitchen scale is recommended to ensure your snack stays around the 50-calorie mark, as portion sizes can vary significantly.

What is a 50-Calorie Serving?

Understanding what a 50-calorie serving looks like is key for anyone managing their intake. While some processed foods can pack high calories into small portions, whole foods often offer a larger, more satisfying volume for the same amount of energy. For example, seven cups of raw spinach are roughly 50 calories, compared to a single Oreo cookie. This difference highlights why focusing on nutrient-dense, lower-calorie options is beneficial for both satiety and overall health.

Fruit and Vegetable Powerhouses

Fruits and vegetables are excellent choices for a low-calorie snack, providing essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Here are some options that are approximately 50 calories per serving:

• Fruits:
  • 1 cup (approx. 150g) of sliced strawberries
  • 1 cup (approx. 150g) of watermelon cubes
  • 1 cup (approx. 100g) of cantaloupe cubes
  • 1 medium-sized apple (about 100g)
  • 1 kiwi fruit
  • 1 large plum
  • 10 cherries
• Vegetables:
  • 7 cups of raw spinach
  • 5 large celery stalks
  • 1 large red bell pepper
  • 15 cherry tomatoes
  • 2 cups of frozen mixed vegetables
  • 1 cup of broccoli florets

These options offer volume and crunch, helping you feel full without a significant calorie hit. You can combine them for a tasty, hydrating snack.

Savory and Protein-Rich Options

For those who prefer a savory snack, there are still plenty of options that fit within the 50-calorie range. Adding a touch of protein or fat can also increase the feeling of fullness and satisfaction.

• Mini Babybel Light Cheese: One triangle is roughly 50 calories.
• Olives: About 10 olives in brine can stay under 50 calories.
• Air-Popped Popcorn: A small portion (about 15g) without butter or heavy seasoning is a great low-calorie, high-fiber choice.
• Miso Soup: A single sachet of instant miso soup is a warming, savory option.
• Almonds: Around 10 grams of almonds provide about 50 calories and a boost of healthy fats and protein.

Comparison Table: 50-Calorie Snack Volume

To visually grasp the difference in portion sizes for 50 calories, consider the following comparison:

Snack Item	Approximate 50-Calorie Portion	Notes
Raw Spinach	7 cups	High volume, rich in vitamins.
Medium Apple	1 medium-sized fruit (100g)	Good source of fiber and hydration.
Strawberries	1 cup (150g)	High in Vitamin C, naturally sweet.
Air-Popped Popcorn	15g	Light and crunchy; avoid butter.
Mini Babybel Cheese (Light)	1 triangle	A satisfying, savory protein boost.
Oreo Cookie	1 cookie	Small portion, high sugar content.

This table illustrates how choosing whole, nutrient-dense foods allows for a more substantial and satisfying snack than highly processed alternatives.

Creative Combinations and Tips

Sometimes, a single item isn't enough. By combining low-calorie foods, you can create more complex, flavorful snacks that are still under or around 50 calories:

• Greek Yogurt with Berries: A spoonful of plain Greek yogurt with a few blueberries is a great mini-snack. Just 10 blueberries and 80g of 0% fat Greek yogurt is around 50 calories.
• Fruit and Protein Combo: Sliced strawberries with a small dollop of light whipped cream or a few blackberries in plain yogurt.
• Veggie and Dip: A few celery sticks with a very light smear of low-fat cream cheese or salsa.

When planning your snacks, remember that every calorie adds up. For best results, use measuring cups or a small kitchen scale to accurately portion your food. Portion control is a powerful tool for weight management and healthy eating habits. The goal is to make every calorie count nutritionally, rather than just filling up on empty calories. Opting for snacks like a cup of blackberries, which provides 8 grams of fiber for just 43 calories, offers excellent satiety and nutritional value.

Conclusion

Understanding what's something that's 50 calories opens up a world of healthy snacking possibilities. From hydrating fruits like watermelon and cantaloupe to crunchy vegetables and savory options like light cheese or miso soup, it's clear that a low-calorie snack can be both delicious and filling. By choosing whole foods over processed alternatives, you can manage your calorie intake effectively while still enjoying a wide variety of flavors and textures. Making smart snack choices is a simple yet impactful step towards a healthier lifestyle.

Note: All calorie counts are approximate and can vary based on serving size, brand, and preparation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's a common processed food that is about 50 calories?

A common processed food that is about 50 calories is a single Oreo cookie. This contrasts with the much larger portions of whole foods you can eat for the same calorie count.

Can I have a sweet treat for 50 calories?

Yes, you can have a sweet treat for 50 calories. For example, a medium apple or a cup of strawberries is a sweet and healthy option. You can also try a small piece of dark chocolate or a no-sugar-added fruit popsicle.

Are there any drinks around 50 calories?

Yes, options include herbal tea with a splash of unsweetened almond milk or tomato juice. A small serving of light lemonade or miso soup can also fall into this calorie range.

How can I make 50 calories feel more filling?

To make 50 calories feel more filling, choose foods with high water and fiber content, like vegetables and fruit. The volume will help satisfy your hunger cues better than a small, dense, high-calorie treat.

What's a 50-calorie snack with protein?

A Mini Babybel Light cheese triangle or a small handful of almonds are good options for a snack that includes a bit of protein for around 50 calories.

What's a good low-calorie snack for nighttime cravings?

For nighttime cravings, air-popped popcorn (unsalted, unbuttered) or a cup of strawberries are great options. They are satisfying and won't heavily impact your calorie intake.

Can I combine different foods for a 50-calorie snack?

Yes, combining foods is a great strategy. For example, a few celery sticks with a tablespoon of salsa or a small amount of Greek yogurt with a couple of berries can create a more interesting and satisfying snack.