This archive report was first published on 23 June 2020.
June 23, 2020 - Losing weight can be a challenging task, with many individuals turning to various diets in an attempt to shed those extra pounds. One such trend that has gained popularity in recent times is the concept of 'negative calorie foods.' But can food really have negative calories?
Calories, measured in kilocalories (kcal), express the energy content in food. While there are foods with very low calorie content, ranging from six to 30 kcal per 100g, it's essential to note that these foods don't completely have zero calories.
Most of these foods, such as celery, watermelon, cabbage, apples, and tomatoes, contain large amounts of water and fiber, which provide a low energy count. However, the idea of negative calorie foods can be deemed a myth, as they still contain calories and there is no scientific evidence to support the claim that they require more energy to eat, digest, and process than they provide.
Our energy needs are varied and can be categorized into three: the thermic effect of eating, the energy needed to maintain a body at rest, and additional energy used for activities, including exercise. Of the three, the thermic effect utilizes the fewest calories, accounting for only a tenth of the calories consumed during digestion.
Some dieticians believe in negative calorie foods as a way to rapid weight loss, but the key to successful weight loss lies in finding a diet with a lower calorie intake. Overall calorie intake is crucial, and adding low-calorie foods to high-calorie foods can actually increase the total calorie count.
For an effective long-term weight loss plan, it's essential to focus on changing food options for healthier alternatives. While some studies suggest that eating fewer calories than one can burn through exercise is key to weight loss, it's essential to note that this approach may not be sustainable in the long term.
