According to the Mayo Clinic, the body's process of digesting, absorbing, transporting and storing the food you consume takes calories. This accounts for about 10 percent of the calories used each day.
There are some foods that take more energy to digest than to eat. These foods can actually burn more calories than they contain, leaving you with a negative calorie balance. These foods can satisfy cravings and hunger without leaving you with additional calories. Most of these foods have the added benefits of being rich in fiber, which keep you feeling satisfied.
Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits, such as lemons, limes, oranges and grapefruits, have fat-burning properties. The vitamin C in these fruits not only dilute fat in your body but also help release the fat cells. Eat these fruits whole, not juiced, for added fiber and feelings of fullness.
Chilies and Cayenne Pepper
Chilies contain capsaicin, a thermogenic food that increases your metabolism and causes the body to burn extra calories. Capsaicin is found in many OTC diet pills, but eating chilies and cayenne pepper is a more natural way to get it.
Lentils
Lentils are high in protein and soluble fiber. They help to stabilize your blood sugar and are high in fiber. They take the body longer to break down, so are negative calorie foods. They also provide a nonfat protein alternative.
Nuts
Though nuts are a high fat food, the fact that they take a long time to digest in the body make them a calorie burner. Nuts are also rich in fiber and protein, making them a beneficial food in moderation.
Apples
Apples contain pectin, which restricts the ability of your cells to absorb fat. Apples are also high in fiber and antioxidants.
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