The energy expenditure that occurs when the body digests, absorbs, transports, and utilizes the food consumed is called the thermal effect of food (TEF). TEF refers to the energy required by the body to process and metabolize nutrients from food.
When we consume food, the body needs to break it down, absorb nutrients, transport them to cells, and utilize them for various physiological processes. Each step in this process requires energy. The TEF accounts for the energy expended during these processes.
The TEF varies depending on the food's macronutrient composition. Protein-rich foods tend to have a higher TEF than carbohydrates and fats. This means that the body requires more energy to digest and metabolize proteins than other macronutrients.
Overall, the TEF contributes to total daily energy expenditure and plays a role in the body's metabolism and energy balance. However, it typically represents a relatively small portion of the total energy expenditure compared to basal metabolic rate (BMR) and physical activity.