20 Zero-Calorie Foods for Fast Weight Loss

Indulge without the guilt! This post shares the best junk food options with zero calories so you can satisfy your cravings without overeating.
junk food with zero calories

You're probably thinking, "How can something actually have zero calories?" I feel you, it does sound strange!

Here's the dealio - all foods have at least a few calories. But some foods are so crazy low in calories that your body burns more energy digesting them than the food actually gives you. Trippy right?

So these foods end up with negative calories, meaning they help you burn extra calories just by eating them! I call them zero-calorie foods to keep it simple.

Eating more of these low-cal superfoods lets you fill up on the good stuff like fiber without going overboard on calories. This dynamic duo of fullness and low calories is perfect for torching fat and shedding pounds! Pretty nifty trick.

Now let me hip you to the top 20 of these zero-cal homies so you can drop it like it's hot!

TOP 20 Yummy Junk Food With Zero Calories

1. Water 

Coming in at #1 is good old H2O! 

  • Water is quite literally zero calories. 
  • Drinking enough water prevents false hunger and overeating. 
  • Aim for at least 3 liters per day for metabolism and weight loss benefits.

2. Cucumber

Crunchy cucumber is made up of about 96% water, so it’s an ultra low-calorie choice.

  • Eat to your heart’s content without worrying about calories.
  • The fiber in the skin can aid digestion and weight loss.

3. Apples

An apple a day keeps the fat away! 

Apples are loaded with:

  • Fiber to improve digestion.
  • Flavonoids that boost immunity.
  • Very few calories per large fruit. 

Be sure to eat the skin for extra benefits!

4. Lemons 

The vibrant vitamin C in lemons can give your metabolism a kick!

  • Helps strengthen immunity.
  • Provides antioxidants that detox the body.  
  • Adds flavor without calories or fat.

Squeeze over salad, fish, or in your morning water.

5. Radishes

These spicy root veggies contain potent phytochemicals.

  • Improves digestive health. 
  • Helps eliminate toxins from the body.
  • Low in calories with a satisfying crunch!

6. Beetroot

Vibrant beetroot is a nutrient powerhouse:

  • Rich in antioxidants, fiber, and essential vitamins/minerals. 
  • Helps increase energy and metabolism.
  • Anti-inflammatory properties help reduce muscle soreness after workouts.

7. Broccoli 

Broccoli is one of the best zero-calorie foods. It’s part of the beneficial brassica family.

  • High in fiber to control appetite and improve digestion. 
  • Contains compounds that help detox the liver and body.
  • Provides a mega dose of vitamin C.

The perfect low-calorie side dish!

8. Carrots

Crunching on carrots provides a natural appetite suppressant thanks to their high fiber.

  • Helps improve digestion and gut health.
  • Rich in vitamin A, potassium, antioxidants. 
  • Their crunchiness can help satisfy snack cravings.

9. Fennel Seeds

Chew up these licorice-flavored seeds to curb hunger. 

  • Helps activate digestive enzymes for better digestion. 
  • Suppresses appetite between meals.
  • Provides antioxidants.

Chew up a teaspoon 15 minutes after meals.

10. Coriander

A handful of fresh coriander adds tons of flavor for barely any calories.

  • Rich in magnesium, manganese and other vital minerals.  
  • Acts as a natural digestive aid and breath freshener. 
  • Helps sweep toxins from the body.

11. Mushrooms 

Meaty, satisfying mushrooms are low in calories but high in nutrients. 

  • Provide filling fiber and protein to help control appetite.
  • Rich in B vitamins, potassium, and antioxidants. 
  • The vitamin D helps strengthen bones and immunity.

Sauté with veggies or add to omelets. 

12. Onions

Don't cry over cut onions! They provide powerful health benefits:

  • Contains inulin fiber that acts as a prebiotic to feed healthy gut bacteria.  
  • Helps control blood sugar levels.
  • Provides immune-boosting antioxidants.

13. Cinnamon 

This fragrant spice boasts anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants. 

  • Helps balance blood sugar levels.  
  • May help reduce risk factors for heart disease and diabetes.
  • Provides flavor without adding any calories, salt or fat.  

Sprinkle on oatmeal, baked goods, coffee, or tea.

14. Papaya

This tropical fruit loads you up with vitamins without the excess calories.

  • Aids digestion with its enzyme papain. 
  • The fiber helps promote regularity and weight loss.
  • Rich in antioxidants that reduce inflammation.

15. Cabbage 

Cabbage is an extremely low-calorie vegetable packed with health perks. 

  • Provides filling fiber to help reduce appetite and cravings.
  • Contains compounds that may help prevent certain cancers.
  • Rich in vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium. 

Try raw in slaw or sautéed for a healthy side.

16. Berries  

Berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are low in calories and sugar but high in fiber.

  • Loaded with antioxidants that provide anti-aging benefits.  
  • Help improve memory and brain function.
  • Contain cancer-fighting polyphenols.

Enjoy a bowl for a sweet treat!

17. Spinach

Popeye's favorite food is one of the healthiest zero-calorie foods around. 

  • Very low in calories but high in essential vitamins, minerals, and cancer-fighting compounds.
  • Helps strengthen muscles and bones.  
  • anti-inflammatory properties help reduce risk of chronic disease.

Add raw spinach to smoothies and salads.

18. Tomatoes 

Vibrant tomatoes are packed with nutrition and low in calories.

  • Excellent source of lycopene, an antioxidant that may protect skin from sun damage.
  • Help lower cholesterol levels and blood pressure.
  • The water content helps you feel full.

Enjoy in salsa, sauce, slices, soup and more!


19. Watermelon

This juicy melon is one of the tastiest zero-calorie foods. 

  • Over 90% water to help you stay hydrated and full.
  • Packed with electrolytes like potassium.
  • Provides powerful antioxidants including lycopene.

Enjoy as a refreshing snack or in salads. 

20. Greek Yogurt 

Rich, creamy Greek yogurt is loaded with protein - the most filling macronutrient.  

  • Contains probiotics for better digestive health.  
  • Just 100 calories provides 20 grams of protein. 
  • The protein helps manage hunger and cravings throughout the day.

Be sure to select plain, unsweetened varieties.

Read - Why Should We Avoid Junk Food? The Shocking Truth 2024

Start Losing Weight with These Zero-Calorie Foods

As you can see, there are so many delicious low-calorie foods you can enjoy as part of a healthy weight loss diet. 

By filling your plate with more of these zero-calorie foods, you can lose weight fast without starving yourself. Their water and fiber content will keep you feeling fuller longer, while their nutrients provide energy and health benefits.

A few simple strategies to incorporate more of these foods:

  • Drink water as your primary beverage.  
  • Enjoy a fruit or veggie serving with each meal and snack.
  • Use lemon juice and herbs to add flavor without calories.
  • Keep washed, raw veggies on hand for quick snacks.  
  • Whip up berry smoothies for breakfast. 
  • Choose Greek yogurt instead of sugary snacks.

Just by making