It’s always been said that our weight is determined by what we eat, meaning calorie intake and diet composition. However, science has proven that weight management is more complex than that. “What we eat” is not the only factor that matters when it comes to weight.
Caloric availability refers to the amount of calories that can be extracted during the digestion process, as opposed to the total number of calories locked up in the food. Several factors influence
Caloric availability:
1. Food Processing: The way food is processed affects the number of calories that can be extracted.
2. Macronutrient Composition: Different macronutrients (carbohydrates, proteins, fats) require different amounts of energy to digest.
3. Circadian Rhythm: The body’s internal clock affects how calories are burned or stored.
4. Hunger Levels: When we are hungrier, our bodies tend to burn more calories rather than store them.
5. Body Shape: The way our bodies store extra calories has implications for our health.
We do not eat units of energy; we eat food. The way our bodies extract calories from food is influenced by how the food is processed, its macronutrient content, the timing of consumption, our hunger levels, and where the calories are stored in our bodies. Understanding these factors can help us better manage our weight and overall health.
