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2.5: Energy Balance

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    156236
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    Energy balance refers to the relationship between the number of calories consumed through food and beverages (energy in) and the number of calories the body uses for basic functions and physical activity (energy out). When energy intake equals energy expenditure, the body is in energy balance, and body weight tends to remain stable (Figure 2.5). A positive energy balance occurs when calorie intake exceeds expenditure, leading to weight gain. A positive energy balance may be desirable during periods of growth such as infancy, childhood, and pregnancy. An “unhealthy” positive energy balance is typically characterized by being associated with an increase in fat tissue. Conversely, a negative energy balance — when calorie output is greater than input — results in weight loss. A negative energy balance could be a result of insufficient energy intake, excessive energy expenditure, or both. Achieving and maintaining energy balance is important for supporting growth, fueling daily activities, and managing body weight.

    Diagram illustrating energy balance, with "Calories In" from food and drink on the left and "Calories Out" from metabolism and activity on the right.
    Figure 2.5 Energy balance is achieved when energy intake equals energy expenditure. Image by Author.

    This page titled 2.5: Energy Balance was last modified on Wed, 23 Sep 2026 05:36:50 GMT and is shared under a CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 license and was authored, remixed, and/or curated by Heather L. Lehman via source content that was edited to the style and standards of the LibreTexts platform.