Diet and exercise in obese subjects: self-report versus controlled measurements

Past decades have witnessed a continuing discussion on the relative role of food intake in the pathogenesis of obesity. Some observers argue that overeating is paramount; others claim that the obese are metabolically more efficient in energy utilization, and thus may not need as much food. There is a considerable amount of evidence that big people do need more food than those who are smaller and thinner. However, a recent study using advanced techniques has revealed a clear discrepancy between self-reported and actual energy intake and self-reported and actual physical activity in obese subjects, especially those who had great difficulty in losing weight by dietary means.