Empty calories
Empty calories
Empty calories (/ˈɛmpti ˈkæləriz/), from the Latin emptus meaning "empty" and the Greek kaloría meaning "heat", are calories that come from foods that contain little to no nutritional value.
Definition
Empty calories are derived from foods high in energy, but low in micronutrients such as vitamins, minerals, complex carbohydrates, lean protein, and healthy fats. These foods are often processed and contain added sugars and unhealthy fats.
Examples
Common examples of foods and beverages high in empty calories include soda, alcohol, candy, cookies, and pastries. These foods and beverages are often high in sugar and fat, but lack essential nutrients.
Impact on Health
Consuming a high amount of empty calories can lead to weight gain and other health problems such as obesity, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. It can also lead to nutritional deficiencies, as these foods and beverages do not provide the essential nutrients that the body needs to function properly.
Prevention
To prevent the consumption of empty calories, it is recommended to consume a balanced diet rich in whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats. It is also recommended to limit the consumption of processed foods and beverages high in sugar and fat.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Empty calories
- Wikipedia's article - Empty calories
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