Which of the following is NOT a component of total energy expenditure?

Total energy expenditure (TEE) is the sum of all calories burned by the body through various components. These components typically include resting energy expenditure (REE), the thermic effect of food, and energy expended through physical activity.

Resting energy expenditure accounts for the calories the body burns at rest to maintain vital functions, such as breathing and circulation. The thermic effect of meals represents the energy expenditure associated with the digestion, absorption, and metabolism of food. Physical activity encompasses all voluntary movements, including exercise and daily activities.

Caloric expenditure during sleep is indeed a form of resting energy expenditure, as the body continues to burn calories while at rest. However, it is often not classified separately within the context of a question regarding total energy expenditure components because it is already included in resting energy expenditure calculations. Therefore, the choice that does not distinctly represent a separate component of total energy expenditure is caloric expenditure during sleep, since it falls under the umbrella of resting energy expenditure. This is why it is considered the correct response to the question.