Which statement describes empty calories?

• A. Calories from added sugars and solid fats with little nutrient value
• B. Calories from high-fiber vegetables
• C. Calories from lean proteins
• D. Calories from water

Answer: (A)

Empty calories are calories that come from foods or drinks that provide energy but little to no vitamins, minerals, or other beneficial nutrients. The statement that best fits describes calories from added sugars and solid fats, which supply energy but very little nutrient value. These foods can increase energy intake without delivering the nutrients the body needs, and they can crowd out more nutrient-dense options. In contrast, high-fiber vegetables bring fiber and micronutrients, lean proteins deliver essential amino acids and nutrients, and water contains no calories at all, so they don’t fit the concept of empty calories.