Energy Density And Energy Intake

The Study

The energy density of a food is the number of calories delivered in 1 gram of that particular food. It has been theorized that if we eat high energy density foods, we will compensate by eating less at later meals that day.

In this interesting randomized crossover study, 34 men and women were served the same lunch and then were offered all you can eat desserts on 3 separate occasions.

The desserts were low energy density (vanilla yogurt), medium energy density (vanilla ice cream) and high energy density (vanilla cheesecake).

-Subjects consumed 186 calories when offered the low and medium energy density desserts.

-Subjects consumed 427 calories when offered the high energy density dessert. This was 241 calories more than the low and medium energy density desserts.

-Subjects did not eat less food later in the day to compensate for this increase in calories.

Appetite 2024; 200:107533

Take Home Message

The results of this study show that calories do matter and we are unlikely to compensate when eating high energy density foods.

Shoot for lower calorie versions of appetizers, main dishes, side dishes and desserts if you are trying to manage your weight.