While no digestible food provides exactly zero calories, certain foods are so low in calories that they are often referred to as "zero-calorie foods" or having "essentially zero calories."
Based on the common understanding and the provided reference, foods often described as "zero-calorie" or having "essentially zero calories" are typically very low in energy content.
Foods like celery are often highlighted in this category. The reference states that celery has "essentially zero calories." This is because it is mostly water and fiber, requiring very little energy to digest.
Understanding "Zero-Calorie" Foods
The term "zero-calorie food" is popular in dieting and nutrition discussions, but it's important to understand what it means:
- Very Low Calorie Count: These foods contain a minimal number of calories per serving.
- High Water and Fiber Content: This makes them filling without contributing significant energy.
- Energy Expenditure for Digestion: Some theories suggest the energy required to chew and digest these foods might be close to or even exceed their caloric content (though this "negative calorie" concept is debated and often overstated).
Examples of Foods Considered "Zero-Calorie"
The reference lists several foods often grouped into this category due to their low caloric density:
- Celery
- Oranges
- Cabbage
- Asparagus
- Beets
- Cucumber
- Lemons
- Cauliflower
These items, rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, can be beneficial additions to a healthy diet focused on calorie management.
Table of Low-Calorie Foods (Examples from Reference)
| Food Name | Common Description (Popular) | Caloric Content (Approximate per 100g - Varies) |
|---|---|---|
| Celery | Essentially zero calories | 14 calories |
| Oranges | Low calorie | 47 calories |
| Cabbage | Very low calorie | 25 calories |
| Asparagus | Low calorie | 20 calories |
| Beets | Low calorie | 43 calories |
| Cucumber | Very low calorie | 15 calories |
| Lemons | Very low calorie | 29 calories |
| Cauliflower | Very low calorie | 25 calories |
Note: The calorie values in the table are approximate and provided for context; the key point from the reference is the classification as "essentially zero" or "zero-calorie" in common terms.
Adding these types of foods to your diet can help increase satiety and nutrient intake without significantly increasing calorie consumption.
