What percentage of daily total energy expenditure is attributed to dietary thermogenesis?

Dietary thermogenesis, also known as the thermic effect of food (TEF), refers to the energy expended by the body to process, digest, absorb, and metabolize the nutrients from food after it has been consumed. It plays a crucial role in total energy expenditure, which includes basal metabolic rate (BMR), physical activity, and the thermic effect of food.

The thermic effect of food contributes approximately 10% to the total daily energy expenditure for most individuals. This variation can depend on factors such as the composition and quantity of the diet, with protein-containing foods typically having a higher thermic effect compared to carbohydrates and fats. However, on average and across populations, the contribution of dietary thermogenesis to total energy expenditure is recognized to be around 10%.

Understanding this component is essential for those studying obesity medicine, as the thermic effect of food can influence energy balance, weight management strategies, and dietary formulations. Thus, the correct answer effectively captures the relationship between dietary thermogenesis and total energy expenditure.