Negative Calorie Foods – Myth or Metabolism Boost?

You might have heard of so-called “negative calorie foods” – those fruits and vegetables that supposedly burn more calories to chew and digest than they actually contain. 

Celery, cucumber, lettuce, grapefruit, and broccoli are often on the list.

The science is a little shaky (no food truly has “negative” calories), but these foods are light, refreshing, and nutrient-packed – making them fantastic ingredients to work into everyday eating.

Why They’re Worth Adding to Your Plate

Low calorie, big crunch – Perfect when you want something to nibble on without piling on energy.

Hydrating – Cucumber, lettuce, and celery are mostly water, keeping you cool and refreshed.

Nutrient-dense – Grapefruit offers vitamin C, broccoli is full of fibre and antioxidants, and leafy greens provide iron and folate.

Meal-friendly – They slip easily into snacks, sides, and even drinks.

How to Enjoy Them

Here are some delicious ways to put so-called negative calorie foods to good use in the kitchen:

Cucumber water coolers – Add cucumber and a squeeze of lemon to sparkling water for a refreshing alternative to fizzy drinks.

Broccoli stir-fry – Lightly sauté with garlic, chilli, and soy sauce for a speedy, healthy side.

Grapefruit breakfast bowls – Pair grapefruit segments with natural yoghurt and a drizzle of honey for a tangy start to the day.

Celery & hummus snack pots – Crunchy, satisfying, and packed with fibre and protein.

Lettuce wraps – Use large leaves in place of tortillas and fill with chicken, prawns, or roasted veg for a lighter lunch option.

The Takeaway

Negative calorie foods might not be the magic slimming trick some claim, but they’re definitely handy allies in the kitchen. Think of them as low-calorie, high-benefit additions that help balance richer dishes and keep meals feeling fresh.

So the next time you’re tempted to reach for a bag of crisps, why not grab some crunchy cucumber sticks or whip up a broccoli side dish instead?