Energy balance measurement: when something is not better than nothing

Int J Obes (Lond). 2015 Jul;39(7):1109-13. doi: 10.1038/ijo.2014.199. Epub 2014 Nov 13.

Abstract

Energy intake (EI) and physical activity energy expenditure (PAEE) are key modifiable determinants of energy balance, traditionally assessed by self-report despite its repeated demonstration of considerable inaccuracies. We argue here that it is time to move from the common view that self-reports of EI and PAEE are imperfect, but nevertheless deserving of use, to a view commensurate with the evidence that self-reports of EI and PAEE are so poor that they are wholly unacceptable for scientific research on EI and PAEE. While new strategies for objectively determining energy balance are in their infancy, it is unacceptable to use decidedly inaccurate instruments, which may misguide health-care policies, future research and clinical judgment. The scientific and medical communities should discontinue reliance on self-reported EI and PAEE. Researchers and sponsors should develop objective measures of energy balance.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Data Accuracy
  • Energy Intake*
  • Energy Metabolism*
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
  • Health Policy
  • Humans
  • Motor Activity*
  • Observational Studies as Topic
  • Policy Making
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Self Report*