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Dietary items labeled as 'zero-calorie' do not aid in weight loss.

Celery, commonly believed to offer 'negative-calories' or no calories at all, actually contains calories, debunking the myth that it is a miracle weight-loss food.

Low-calorie foods do not promote weight loss. The misconception persists.
Low-calorie foods do not promote weight loss. The misconception persists.

Dietary items labeled as 'zero-calorie' do not aid in weight loss.

In a world where dieting trends and food myths abound, one popular belief that has persisted for years is the existence of negative-calorie foods. These are foods, such as celery, that are said to require more calories to digest than they provide, leading to a net calorie loss. However, a recent scientific study on celery consumption in bearded dragons, an omnivorous reptile with digestive mechanisms similar to humans, has debunked this idea.

The study found that while celery and other low-calorie, high-fibre foods do burn some energy during digestion, the energy expended is not enough to create a net calorie deficit. In other words, these foods cannot be classified as negative-calorie foods in strict scientific terms.

Despite this, low-calorie, high-fibre foods can still play a role in weight loss as part of a balanced diet. They are often very low in calories and promote satiety, potentially leading to an overall calorie deficit. However, it's essential to remember that a diet consisting only of such foods could result in feelings of hunger and irritability.

Moreover, overly restrictive low-calorie dieting can have unintended consequences, including increased depressive symptoms due to nutrient deficiencies. Nutrient deficiencies can impact brain function and mood, highlighting the importance of a balanced diet that includes a variety of whole foods, especially those packed with protein and fibre.

The scientific consensus is that there is no evidence supporting the existence of true negative-calorie or zero-calorie foods. The calorie content of food is less important than the types of foods being consumed. Whole foods, especially those packed with protein and fibre, generally require more energy to digest than processed foods.

If you have questions about negative-calorie foods or dietary habits, feel free to message our Facebook, X, or Instagram pages, or submit your questions to us via email. We're always here to help!

Sources: 1. Calories and nutrients: the complex calculations we do every day 2. Food myths debunked: 7 food "facts" that are completely wrong 3. This simple snacking habit could help cut your cholesterol, study finds 4. The role of diet in mood and mental health 5. The impact of ultra-processed foods on our health and wellbeing

Remember, it's important to include your name and location when submitting questions. And don't forget to check out our ultimate fun facts page for more mind-blowing science!

[1] https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/calories-and-nutrients-the-complex-calculations-we-do-every-day [2] https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/food-myths-debunked [3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6360708/ [4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6555347/ [5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6748543/

  1. In the realm of science and health-and-wellness, it's crucial to debunk common diet myths, such as the notion of negative-calorie foods, for a balanced approach to fitness-and-exercise and nutrition.
  2. Much like celery, space exploration and research require an understanding of science and energy, as the processes involved in both require careful consideration and study.
  3. A balanced diet that includes a variety of whole foods, especially those packed with protein and fiber, can promote overall health, wellness, and wellbeing, as opposed to restrictive diets focusing on negative-calorie foods.
  4. Furthermore, scientific research can shed light on the impact of nutrient deficiencies on brain function and mood, emphasizing the importance of a well-rounded diet that supports both physical and mental well-being.

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