Negative-calorie diets are commonly masked as which type of diet?

Negative-calorie diets are often associated with weight loss strategies that suggest consuming fewer calories than the body expends, leading to the misconception that certain foods can burn more calories in digestion than they provide. This approach typically categorizes foods that are very low in calories, creating an illusion that the total caloric intake can be extremely minimal while still encouraging weight loss.

The term “low-calorie diet” aligns with these practices, emphasizing the reduction of caloric intake to achieve weight loss goals. Foods commonly included in these diets may tend to be rich in water and fiber, like fruits and vegetables, which offer fewer calories but can help individuals feel full due to their volume.

In contrast, high-protein, low-fat, or balanced diets focus on specific macronutrient profiles rather than strictly limiting caloric intake. They do not inherently promote the idea of negative calorie consumption as a primary means of weight management, making the association with low-calorie diets more relevant in this context. Thus, recognizing negative-calorie diets as predominantly low-calorie underscores the principle of creating a caloric deficit for weight loss.