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Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements best describes the thermic effect of food (TEF)?
A
It is the increase in energy expenditure above basal metabolic rate due to the energy required for digesting, absorbing, and processing nutrients from food.
B
It is the total amount of energy expended during physical activity.
C
It is the energy used by the body to maintain vital functions at rest.
D
It is the energy stored in adipose tissue for future use.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the concept of the thermic effect of food (TEF). TEF refers to the increase in energy expenditure above the basal metabolic rate (BMR) that occurs due to the energy required for digesting, absorbing, and processing nutrients from food.
Step 2: Compare TEF with other energy-related processes in the body. For example, BMR is the energy used by the body to maintain vital functions at rest, while physical activity involves energy expenditure during movement. TEF is distinct because it specifically relates to food processing.
Step 3: Eliminate incorrect options by analyzing their definitions. For instance, 'energy stored in adipose tissue for future use' refers to fat storage, not TEF. Similarly, 'total amount of energy expended during physical activity' pertains to exercise, not food digestion.
Step 4: Focus on the correct definition of TEF, which is the energy required for digesting, absorbing, and processing nutrients from food. This definition aligns with the physiological processes involved in TEF.
Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer is the statement describing TEF as the increase in energy expenditure above basal metabolic rate due to the energy required for digesting, absorbing, and processing nutrients from food.