What is the one thing that is responsible for both weight gain and weight loss? The answer is Calories. This is the one word that fitness enthusiasts find the scariest. To gain weight, we need to consume calories and to lose weight, we need to burn double the calories consumed! Many people do not know the origin of their weight gain despite exercising daily. Calories are the deal-breaker. While all foods contain calories, there are some foods that have fewer calories and are therefore termed as ‘zero-calorie foods’. If you are eager to know what are they, scroll down and read.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes are rich in lycopene and vitamin C. In addition, tomatoes contain a lot of minerals and other nutrients that can aid weight loss. Lycopene is an antioxidant that protects you from heart diseases and cancer and accelerates body metabolism. 100-gram raw tomato has only 18 calories and 95% of it is made up of water. So it reduces weight rapidly.
Carrots
Carrots are also considered zero calorie food. They have two specific antioxidants, called beta carotene and alpha-carotene. This alpha-carotene is converted into vitamin A in the body which is exceptionally beneficial for the eyes. Besides, carrots also contain antioxidants such as lutein, lycopene, polyacetylene, etc. to fight oxidative stress and reduce free radical damage. 100 grams of carrots contain only 41 calories, therefore, carrots can also be considered negative calorie food.
Apples
Apples are considered great for health. In case you don’t know, an apple a day keeps cholesterol at bay. Apples contain a lot of vitamins and minerals, which help keep the body healthy. Apart from this, apples are also rich in antioxidants and so their consumption keeps many diseases away. A small apple (150 grams) has about 78 calories. Almost the same amount of energy is used by the body to digest it. So eating apples does not contribute to weight gain.
Beetroot
Beetroot is rich in iron and increases blood in the body. Beetroot is considered to be one of the most healthy foods in the world because it contains two very special antioxidants Betalains and Vulgaxanthin. These antioxidants prevent the body from inflammation and detoxify the blood. There are only 44 calories in 100 grams of beetroot, so it is also considered as 'zero-calorie' food. You can have it raw or drink a glass of fresh beetroot juice daily.
Cucumber
There are very few calories in cucumbers, so cucumbers are also a good option for weight loss diet. A large size cucumber (300 grams) has about 45 calories. It has fewer calories and more water content. Besides, you get a good amount of fiber, protein, vitamin C, vitamin K, magnesium, potassium, manganese etc. by eating cucumber.
If you want to eat to the fullest but not gain weight, you must include these foods in your diet without adding to the calories. These are healthy, nutritious and great for weight loss. The best part is that most of these are available in all seasons. So go and fill your pantry with these foods.
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