7-day Meal Plan For Dieting
Embark on a dieting journey that feels less like a chore and more like a culinary adventure. Our 7-day meal plan for dieting is designed to keep you on track without sacrificing flavor. Plus, we'll show you how to turn these meal plans into a hassle-free shopping list. Let's dive into a week of balanced eating!
Meal plan grocery list
- Greek Yogurt
- Mixed Berries
- Chia Seeds
- Apple
- Almond Butter
- Chicken Breast
- Vegetables
- Salmon
- Quinoa
- Broccoli
- Oatmeal
- Banana
- Peanut Butter
- Egg
- Turkey
- Avocado
- Salad Greens
- Honey
- Almonds
- Shrimp
- Zucchini
- Tomato Sauce
- Spinach
- Almond Milk
- Protein Powder
- Cottage Cheese
- Pineapple
- Cucumber
- Beef
- Brown Rice
- Whole Grain Toast
- Mixed Nuts
- Lentil Soup
- Whole Grain Bread
- Bell Peppers
- Guacamole
- Sweet Potato
- Green Beans
- Granola
- Orange
- Rice Cakes
- Turkey Chili
- Beans
- Pear
- String Cheese
- Sunflower Seeds
- Cod
- Brussels Sprouts
- Protein Pancake
- Walnuts
- Romaine Lettuce
- Parmesan Cheese
- Caesar Dressing
- Croutons
- Tzatziki
- Tofu
Article reviewed
- Written by our editorial team.
- Published on Dec. 19, 2023.
- Updated on Sept. 10, 2024.
Meal plan overview
Embarking on a diet doesn't have to be a dull affair. A 7-day meal plan for dieting can be both flavorful and fulfilling. It's about finding the right balance of nutrients while keeping calorie intake in check.
Expect benefits like weight loss, improved metabolism, and better control over your appetite. It's a practical approach to dieting that doesn't feel like a sacrifice.
Foods to eat
- Lean Proteins: Skinless chicken, turkey, fish, tofu, and lean cuts of beef.
- Vegetables: Broccoli, spinach, cauliflower, kale, and other non-starchy vegetables.
- Whole Grains: Quinoa, brown rice, oats, and whole wheat products in moderation.
- Fruits: Berries, apples, grapefruit, and other low-calorie fruits.
- Low-Fat Dairy: Greek yogurt, skim milk, and other low-fat dairy options.
- Legumes: Lentils, chickpeas, black beans, and other high-fiber sources.
- Healthy Fats: Avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil in controlled portions.
- Water: Stay hydrated with water and herbal teas.
- Herbs and Spices: Use herbs and spices for flavor without added calories.
✅ Tip
Drink a glass of water with apple cider vinegar before meals to potentially increase feelings of fullness and support digestion.
Foods not to eat
- Processed Snacks: Chips, cookies, and other high-calorie snacks.
- Sugary Beverages: Soda, energy drinks, and sugary fruit juices.
- Sweets and Desserts: Cakes, candies, and other high-sugar treats.
- White Bread and Refined Grains: Opt for whole grains instead of refined options.
- Fried Foods: Minimize fried foods and choose baked or grilled alternatives.
- Full-Fat Dairy: Choose low-fat or fat-free dairy products.
- High-Calorie Sauces and Dressings: Use low-calorie alternatives or in moderation.
- Alcohol: Limit alcohol consumption as it adds extra calories.
- Excessive Portions: Practice portion control to manage calorie intake.
Main benefits
The 7-Day Meal Plan For Weight Loss provides a strategic approach to support weight management and overall health. By focusing on nutrient-dense, low-calorie foods, this meal plan helps create a calorie deficit, a key factor in weight loss. Including a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains ensures a well-rounded and satisfying diet. Portion control and mindful eating are integral components, promoting awareness of food intake. The emphasis on lean proteins helps preserve muscle mass during weight loss, contributing to a healthier body composition. With an emphasis on long-term sustainability, this meal plan encourages the development of healthy eating habits for lasting weight management success.
Fat
Carbs
Protein
Fiber
Other
Food alternatives
For effective dieting, focus on low-calorie, nutrient-dense foods that help you feel full and energized. Here are some great alternatives:
- Switch Greek yogurt with low-fat cottage cheese for a high-protein, lower-calorie alternative.
- Replace quinoa with farro for a nutty, fiber-rich grain that can help keep you full longer.
- Try egg whites instead of whole eggs to reduce calorie and fat intake while keeping protein high.
- Substitute peanut butter with powdered peanut butter for a lower-calorie, lower-fat option.
- Use cauliflower rice in place of brown rice for a low-carb, low-calorie base that's still filling.
How to budget on this meal plan
To better budget this diverse 7-day meal plan, focus on buying in bulk and choosing versatile ingredients. Opt for larger packs of staples like chicken breast, brown rice, and vegetables, which are often cheaper per unit. Consider seasonal produce for fruits and vegetables to save costs. Utilize ingredients like eggs, beans, and lentils in multiple meals, as they are nutritious yet economical. Plan to use perishables like salad greens and berries earlier in the week to avoid waste. Buying store brands for items like almond butter, Greek yogurt, and oatmeal can also reduce expenses without sacrificing quality.
Extra tips
Any healthy snack ideas?
Low-calorie snacks ideal for dieting:
- Carrot sticks with tzatziki
- Fresh fruit salad
- Rice cake with low-fat cottage cheese
- Air-popped popcorn without butter
- Greek yogurt with cinnamon
- Cucumber slices with hummus
- Small serving of mixed nuts
What should I drink on this meal plan?
When dieting, beverages should be low in calories but high in nutritional value. Water is key for hydration and helps with feeling full. Green tea supports metabolism. Herbal teas provide a calorie-free way to stay hydrated. Black coffee, without added sugars, can help suppress appetite. Lastly, vegetable juices are a great way to get nutrients without too many calories.
How to get even more nutrients?
Dieting doesn’t have to mean skipping out on nutrients. Focus on nutrient-rich, low-calorie foods. Fruits and veggies are always a good bet for vitamins and minerals. Add in quality proteins, like lean meats and plant-based options, to help maintain muscle and keep you full. Whole grains provide energy, and healthy fats from things like nuts and olive oil make meals more satisfying.
Meal plan suggestions
7-Day Meal Plan for Dieting
Day 1
- Breakfast: Greek yogurt with mixed berries and chia seeds
- Snack: Apple slices with almond butter
- Lunch: Grilled chicken breast with roasted vegetables
- Snack: Carrots and hummus
- Dinner: Baked salmon with quinoa and steamed broccoli
Calories: 1350 Fat: 50g Carbs: 120g Protein: 87g
Day 2
- Breakfast: Oatmeal with sliced banana and peanut butter
- Snack: Hard-boiled egg
- Lunch: Turkey and avocado wrap with a side salad
- Snack: Greek yogurt with honey and sliced almonds
- Dinner: Grilled shrimp with zucchini noodles and tomato sauce
Calories: 1320 Fat: 56g Carbs: 105g Protein: 76g
Day 3
- Breakfast: Smoothie with spinach, banana, almond milk, and protein powder
- Snack: Cottage cheese with pineapple
- Lunch: Quinoa salad with mixed vegetables and grilled chicken
- Snack: Sliced cucumber with hummus
- Dinner: Lean beef stir-fry with broccoli and brown rice
Calories: 1300 Fat: 50g Carbs: 110g Protein: 95g
Day 4
- Breakfast: Whole grain toast with avocado and poached eggs
- Snack: A handful of mixed nuts
- Lunch: Lentil soup with a side of whole grain bread
- Snack: Sliced bell peppers with guacamole
- Dinner: Baked chicken breast with sweet potato and green beans
Calories: 1330 Fat: 50g Carbs: 125g Protein: 76g
Day 5
- Breakfast: Greek yogurt parfait with granola and berries
- Snack: Orange and a handful of almonds
- Lunch: Spinach salad with grilled salmon, avocado, and vinaigrette
- Snack: Rice cakes with peanut butter
- Dinner: Turkey chili with beans and vegetables
Calories: 1350 Fat: 55g Carbs: 115g Protein: 80g
Day 6
- Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with spinach and mushrooms
- Snack: A pear and a string cheese
- Lunch: Grilled vegetable and hummus wrap
- Snack: Yogurt with a sprinkle of sunflower seeds
- Dinner: Baked cod with roasted Brussels sprouts and quinoa
Calories: 1300 Fat: 48g Carbs: 108g Protein: 77g
Day 7
- Breakfast: Protein pancake with fresh berries
- Snack: A small apple with a handful of walnuts
- Lunch: Chicken Caesar salad with light dressing
- Snack: Carrot sticks with tzatziki
- Dinner: Grilled tofu with stir-fried mixed vegetables and brown rice
Calories: 1350 Fat: 52g Carbs: 115g Protein: 77g
These values are approximate and can vary slightly based on specific portion sizes and preparation methods.
Want to learn more?
⚠️ Keep in mind
As with any dietary change, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before changing your dietary habits.