Last Updated on February 12, 2025

Zero calorie foods are a tool I use to get people fit and healthy with the most delicious food possible.  I find that not many people know about zero calorie foods so I’m breaking down everything you need to know so you can use them to get incredible results.

You’ll learn:

Let’s do this.

 

What are Zero Calorie Foods?

Zero calorie foods are extremely low in calories and often referred to as “negative calorie foods.” This means that your body burns more energy digesting them than they actually provide, making their net calorie impact negligible.

To put it simply: When you eat zero calorie foods, you burn off what you consume automatically, making them an excellent tool for weight loss and mindful eating—without the need for obsessive calorie counting.

However, the benefits of these foods go far beyond just calorie control!

 

Do Zero Calorie Food have Benefits?

 

The zero calorie foods I’m sharing offer incredible benefits for your metabolism, digestion, and overall health. Here’s why they’re a game-changer for fitness and health:

They Keep You Full – Packed with fiber and water, these foods help curb hunger and keep you satisfied longer.

They Boost Hydration – Many zero calorie foods have high water content, supporting optimal digestion, detoxification, and nutrient absorption.

They’re Nutrient-Dense – While low in macronutrients (carbs, fats, and protein), they’re rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support metabolism and overall health.

They Support Weight Loss – By naturally regulating hunger and reducing overall calorie intake, they make weight loss easier without the need for restrictive dieting.

Real-Life Example: One of my clients, Sarah, struggled with overeating at night. By incorporating more zero calorie foods into her meals—like a big side of roasted cauliflower and a cucumber salad—she felt more satisfied, snacked less, and finally started seeing results without feeling deprived.

 

50 Best Zero Calorie Foods

 

Here are 50 of the best zero calorie foods, starting with the most nutrient-dense options for the best results.

Vegetables:

  1. Spinach – 7 calories per cup
  2. Kale – 8 calories per cup
  3. Romaine Lettuce – 8 calories per cup
  4. Arugula – 5 calories per cup
  5. Cabbage – 22 calories per cup
  6. Watercress – 4 calories per cup
  7. Celery – 6 calories per stalk
  8. Cucumber – 16 calories per cup (sliced)
  9. Zucchini – 17 calories per cup
  10. Radishes – 19 calories per cup
  11. Asparagus – 27 calories per cup
  12. Broccoli – 31 calories per cup
  13. Cauliflower – 27 calories per cup
  14. Mushrooms – 15 calories per cup
  15. Bell Peppers – 24 calories per cup (sliced)
  16. Tomatoes – 22 calories per medium tomato
  17. Brussels Sprouts – 38 calories per cup

 

Fruits


     18. Strawberries – 49 calories per cup
     19. Blueberries – 57 calories per cup
     20. Raspberries – 64 calories per cup
     21. Watermelon – 46 calories per cup
     22. Grapefruit – 52 calories per half
     23. Peaches – 59 calories per medium peach
     24. Blackberries – 62 calories per cup
     25. Oranges – 62 calories per medium orange
     26. Papaya – 55 calories per cup
     27. Apples (in moderation) – 95 calories per medium apple

Herbs & Spices


     28. Basil – 1 calorie
     29. Parsley – 1 calorie
     30. Cilantro – 1 calorie
     31. Rosemary – 3 calories
     32. Thyme – 3 calories
     33. Oregano – 3 calories
     34. Mint – 1 calorie
     35. Dill – 1 calorie
     36. Sage – 2 calories
     37. Chives – 1 calorie
     38. Tarragon – 5 calories
     39. Curry Powder – 7 calories
     40. Cumin – 8 calories
     41. Paprika – 6 calories
     42. Ginger – 2 calories
     43. Turmeric – 8 calories
     44. Cinnamon – 6 calories
     45. Nutmeg – 12 calories
     46. Black Pepper – 6 calories
     47. Cardamom – 6 calories
     48. Cloves – 6 calories
     49. Mustard Powder – 5 calories
     50. Garlic – 4 calories per clove

Pro Tip: Load up on these herbs and spices to add flavor and maximize the nutritional benefits of your meals without adding calories!

a list of 40 zero calorie foods, herbs, and spices

Pin this list of Zero Calorie Foods to Pinterest so you’ll have it forever

 

How to Eat Negative Calorie Foods for the Best Results

 

Here’s how to enjoy zero calorie foods and use them to maximize weight loss and wellness benefits:

Pair Them with Protein & Healthy Fats – While zero calorie foods are great, you still need protein and healthy fats for balanced nutrition. Try spinach with eggs or cucumbers with avocado and salmon.

Use Herbs & Spices Generously – The more variety, the better! I always tell my clients to include at least three herbs and spices in every meal to enhance flavor and satiety.

Eat Zero Calorie Foods Before Higher-Calorie Meals – This strategy helps naturally control portion sizes. For example, start dinner with a side salad packed with cucumbers, arugula, and tomatoes.

Make Hydrating Snacks – Swap processed snacks for hydrating, fiber-rich options like sliced bell peppers with a sprinkle of sea salt or a cup of berries.

Success Story: My client, Jason, used to struggle with late-night cravings. By snacking on high-fiber, zero calorie foods like celery with turmeric and black pepper, he cut his nightly calorie intake in half—without feeling deprived.  And you can, too!

Remember to have at least 1 serving of a zero calorie food and at least 3 servings of herbs and spices into every meal for the best results.

While zero-calorie foods are a great tool, they don’t provide enough macronutrients on their own. For noticeable improvements in your body, health, and energy levels, you need a balance of macronutrients and micronutrients.

To get the best results, I always recommend eating for your unique metabolic type.  It’s key to getting long lasting results because each type needs different amounts of different macronutrients to burn fat. Take my Metabolic Type Quiz to discover what works best for your body.  That training explains how your metabolic type influences weight loss, energy levels, and overall health. Learn what works best for your body and start seeing real results.

xo

Your Coach and Biggest Cheerleader,

 

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