Noncaloric Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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noncaloric

[nɒnˈkælərɪk ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

dietary reference

The term 'noncaloric' refers to substances or foods that contain little to no calories. These components can be crucial in dietary planning for people looking to lose weight or manage their caloric intake. Common examples of noncaloric items include certain artificial sweeteners and broth-based soups. While they do not contribute significant energy to the diet, they may possess other attributes that are important for taste and satisfaction.

Synonyms

calorie-free, no-calorie, zero-calorie.

Examples of usage

  • Many people use noncaloric sweeteners to satisfy their sweet tooth without gaining weight.
  • Diet soda often contains noncaloric ingredients that can provide a soda-like experience without the calories.
  • Noncaloric food options are particularly popular during fasting periods or weight loss diets.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Nutrition

  • Noncaloric sweeteners are often used as a sugar substitute, allowing people to enjoy sweetness without the added calories.
  • Some common noncaloric sweeteners include aspartame, sucralose, and stevia, which are much sweeter than sugar.

Health Studies

  • Research indicates that noncaloric foods can help in managing body weight when included in a balanced diet.
  • Some studies suggest that consuming noncaloric sweeteners might lead to an increased preference for sweetness and could influence eating habits.

Cultural Trends

  • The popularity of noncaloric beverages, like diet sodas, has risen significantly as health consciousness grows.
  • In various cultures, the use of noncaloric options reflects modern dietary trends and the desire for healthier alternatives.

Food Industry

  • The food industry often uses noncaloric ingredients to create low-calorie snacks and meals, catering to diet-conscious consumers.
  • Labeling foods as 'noncaloric' has become a marketing strategy to attract health-focused buyers.

Origin of 'noncaloric'

Main points about word origin

  • The prefix 'non-' means 'not' in Latin, so 'noncaloric' directly translates to 'not caloric'.
  • The word 'caloric' stems from the Latin word 'calor', meaning heat, originally used in the context of energy from food.

The word 'noncaloric' is derived from the prefix 'non-' which means 'not' or 'without' and 'caloric', which comes from the Latin word 'calor' meaning 'heat'. In nutritional science, caloric refers to the energy content in food, measured in calories. The combination of these terms began to be used more prominently in the late 20th century as awareness of diet and nutrition increased, particularly amidst rising concerns about obesity and health. With the introduction of artificial sweeteners and other dietary alternatives, the need for terms like 'noncaloric' became essential in discussing food choices that do not contribute to one's total caloric intake. As dietary habits continue to evolve, so does the use and understanding of this term.