The Phizz

Empty Calories

Empty Calories: High-Energy Rush Now…Fat Later

By: Erik Cosgrove

          Empty calories are present in foods that contain little, if any nutritional value to your diet.  They are most often found in high-energy foods with poor nutritional values, most commonly from processed carbohydrates or fats.  An empty calorie contains pretty much the same amount of energy as any other calorie but lacks accompanying micronutrients.  Among these key micronutrients are vitamins, minerals, amino acids, as well as fiber, which is found in whole grains, but more rarely in whole grains.Some results of consuming empty calories are that they are extremely high in calories and fat.  Another detail about them is that they aren’t very fulfilling and leave your body still feeling in a state of hunger.  The consumption of vast empty calories generally translates into very rapid and quick weight gains if they are left unaccounted in a person’s regular diet. 

          There are several ways to avoid consuming too many empty calories.  Avoid deep-fried foods.  Deep fried foods contain an abundance of trans fat and little to no nutritional value.  Another thing would be to eat whole grains instead of refined grains. Whole grains are packed with beneficial fiber and antioxidants.  Another alternative to eating foods containing empty calories would be to eat fruits as a snack instead a bag of chips.

SOME FOOD FOR THOUGHT

          Some examples of empty calories are hard candies, cotton candy, beer and other alcoholic beverages, crackers, cookies, white bread, white rice and candy bars (without nuts).  Other examples that might not jump right out at the consumer are some that contain little nutritional value but are still empty calories, they include: cupcakes, cinnamon rolls, custard pies, gravies, sauces, salad dressings, Mayo, mustard, catsup, chips, cheese balls/curls/toes and puddings.

Filed by pcerny at October 17th, 2007 under Uncategorized