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Non linear weight gain with long term overfeeding in man
O Dériaz1, A Tremblay, C Bouchard
1Physical Activity Sciences Laboratory, Laval University, Ste-Foy, Québec, Canada.
Obesity Research
|May 1, 1993
Summary
Overfeeding studies reveal that total daily energy expenditure increases with body weight, slowing weight gain over time. This suggests a significant portion of energy surplus is used for physical activity and food metabolism, not just storage.
Area of Science:
- Metabolic studies
- Human physiology
- Obesity research
Background:
- Understanding body weight regulation is crucial for managing obesity.
- Overfeeding studies help elucidate energy balance dynamics.
- Previous research suggests adaptive thermogenesis plays a role in weight gain.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the pattern of body weight gain during sustained overfeeding.
- To determine if total daily energy expenditure (TEE) increases with body weight.
- To assess the contribution of TEE to the slowing of weight gain over time.
Main Methods:
- Twenty-four male identical twins underwent a 100-day overfeeding protocol (4.2 MJ/day, 6 days/week).
- Body weight, fat-free mass, and fat mass changes were monitored.
- Calculations were performed to estimate energy expenditure (E) and energy cost (C) of weight gain.
Main Results:
- Body weight, fat-free mass, and fat mass increased exponentially.
- Total daily energy expenditure (TEE) increased with body weight gain.
- Physical activity and thermic effect of food accounted for approximately 65% of the increased TEE.
- The proportion of energy surplus stored as body mass decreased over the 100-day period.
Conclusions:
- Total daily energy expenditure (TEE) is directly related to body weight changes during overfeeding.
- A significant portion of energy expenditure increase is attributed to factors beyond resting metabolic rate.
- The efficiency of energy storage decreases with the duration of overfeeding.