Thermic Effect of Food (TEF)
The energy expended to digest, absorb, and process nutrients.
Updated
The thermic effect of food (TEF) is the increase in metabolic rate after eating, accounting for about 10% of total daily energy expenditure. Protein has the highest TEF (20-30%), followed by carbs (5-10%) and fats (0-3%). High-protein diets slightly increase metabolism partly through increased TEF.
Examples
- Protein: 20-30% of calories burned digesting
- Carbs: 5-10% TEF
- Fat: 0-3% TEF
Related Terms
Common questions
What is TEF?
The energy expended to digest, absorb, and process nutrients. The thermic effect of food (TEF) is the increase in metabolic rate after eating, accounting for about 10% of total daily energy expenditure.
What are examples of TEF?
Protein: 20-30% of calories burned digesting; Carbs: 5-10% TEF; Fat: 0-3% TEF.
Put it into practice
Macro Tracking Masterclass · £12
Set your calories and macros, track them accurately, and fix a stall: a 3-page guide plus an Excel calculator