Which aspect of nutrition does the term 'empty calories' refer to?

The term 'empty calories' specifically refers to foods and beverages that are high in calories but provide little to no nutritional value. These items typically contain added sugars and unhealthy fats while lacking essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, fiber, and protein. The concern with consuming empty calories is that they can contribute to weight gain and poor health when they displace more nutritious food options in the diet.

For instance, sugary drinks, candy, and certain processed snacks are often cited as examples of empty calorie foods. They can lead to an increase in total calorie intake without contributing to a person's nutrient needs, making it easy to overconsume energy while still experiencing nutrient deficiencies.

In contrast, foods with high nutritional value would provide essential nutrients alongside their calories, and low-calorie foods with high satiety focus on keeping one feeling full without adding a substantial amount of calories. Lastly, calories derived solely from fruits and vegetables would generally not be considered empty calories, as these foods are typically packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making them a healthy choice.