SummaryAlthough no food technically has "negative" calories, these food items include those which have minimal caloric content and high fibre, requiring more energy for digestion.
If you are trying to lose weight, you might have heard about the concept of a calorie deficit. This means consuming fewer calories than your body burns, which helps in shedding excess fat. But have you ever heard of negative-calorie foods? These are foods that are so low in calories that your body expends more energy digesting them than they actually provide. Besides being excellent for weight loss, many of these foods also support brain health.
Can Foods Be Calorie Negative?
Negative-calorie foods are those with minimal caloric content and high fibre, requiring more energy for digestion. Although no food technically has “negative” calories, these foods can contribute to weight loss by naturally boosting metabolism. The best part? Many of them are packed with essential nutrients that support brain function and encourage neurogenesis.
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Calorie Negative Vegetables
In vegetables, tomatoes have only 19 calories per 100g. Besides they are rich in lycopene, which combat oxidative stress in the brain, supporting cognitive function and reducing neurodegenerative risks. Cucumbers 12 calories per 100g. They are hydrating and rich in antioxidants. It also has Potassium, which is very beneficial for kidney health. Carrots are another great vegetable, besides being rich in
Vitamin A and fibre, they have 41 calories per 100g. Loaded with beta-carotene, they also support memory retention.
Calorie Negative Leafy Greens And Herbs
When it comes to leafy greens and herbs, then parsley is a great option. It is a low-calorie herb with just 36 calories per 100g. It aids digestion and boosts metabolism, helping with effective weight loss. Dill has 43 calories per 100g. This herb contains compounds that reduce bloating and improve digestion, promoting a flatter stomach. Basil has 22 calories per 100g and helps regulate blood sugar levels, reducing cravings and supporting sustained weight loss.
Calorie Negative Fruits
In the category of fruits, peach has the lowest calorie count with 39 calories per 100g. Next is
Kiwi with 61 calories per 100g. Green Apple, which is great for gut health, has 53 calories per 100g. These fruits are packed with fibre and water, which help increase satiety and reduce overeating. Peaches are especially beneficial for digestion, while kiwi contain enzymes that aid in breaking down proteins and preventing bloating. Green apples, known for their tartness, slow digestion and stabilize blood sugar levels, reducing sudden hunger pangs.
Besides, strawberries have 43 calories per 100g, Blueberries 57 calories per 100g, and Raspberries 52 calories per 100g. Berries are loaded with fibre and antioxidants, which not only help in weight management but also support metabolism. Their natural sweetness can curb sugar cravings while their low-calorie count allows for guilt-free snacking. The high fibre content in raspberries promotes digestion, blueberries help regulate blood sugar, and strawberries support fat oxidation, making them excellent choices for those looking to shed excess weight.