What does the thermic effect of food account for in total energy expenditures?

The thermic effect of food (TEF) refers to the energy expended by the body in order to digest, absorb, and metabolize the nutrients from the food consumed. It represents a relatively small portion of the total daily energy expenditure, typically accounting for about 10% of this total. This percentage can vary slightly based on the composition of the diet, such as the proportion of protein, carbohydrates, and fats consumed.

Proteins generally require more energy for digestion compared to fats and carbohydrates, which can increase the thermic effect, but on average, TEF around the 10% mark is widely accepted in nutritional science. Understanding TEF is important for comprehending overall metabolism and energy balance, particularly in contexts such as weight management and dietary planning.