Eat cake, lose weight ...

Normally, indulging in slices of cake would lead to an unwelcome number on the scales, however, Klever Kalories claims to have created cake bars which help burn calories instead. Photo / Thinkstock

They sound too good to be true - but even if they are, you'd have a yummy time finding out. A range of cake bars has been created which, it is claimed, are not only tasty but will burn calories too.

The bars, inspired by the type of treats found in Italian patisseries, are made by Klever Kalories, a start-up business founded by a former accountant.

The company says a blend of natural ingredients already used in some energy bars and shakes is put together to make its Skinny Slice products. They include L-carnitine, guarana and green tea, which are said to boost the metabolic rate by slightly raising the body temperature.

UK trade magazine The Grocer reported that the slices each contain 110 to 150 calories, and come in nine flavours including coconut, vanilla cream, honey and apricot, tiramisu varieties, chocolate sandwich, vanilla sandwich and creme brulee. The slices have a recommended retail price of £1.39 (NZ$2.70) each.

Klever Kalories founder Saba Yussouf said they would fill a need for 'high-quality foods that promote a trim and healthy physique'.

She told the magazine: 'As a young, working woman with a sweet tooth, I understand the desire and effort required to stay trim but found that the low-calorie treats on the market could not satisfy my craving for an indulgent food.'

But she said it was not possible to measure how much eating the treats would help boost the metabolism because 'everyone is different'.

Registered public health nutritionist Charlotte Stirling-Reed said that consumers should always look for evidence before making purchases based on health claims.

The Nutrition Society member told the magazine: 'Unfortunately there is no "magic pill" when it comes to weight loss.'

- Daily Mail