What is an important factor influencing caloric expenditure in daily life?

The thermic effect of food is indeed an important factor influencing caloric expenditure in daily life. This term refers to the energy required for digestion, absorption, and metabolism of food. When we consume food, our bodies expend a certain amount of energy to process it, contributing to overall daily caloric expenditure. This aspect of metabolism can account for approximately 10% to 15% of total daily energy expenditure, depending on the type and quantity of food consumed.

Food choices that are high in protein, for example, generally have a higher thermic effect compared to fats and carbohydrates, meaning that eating more protein can lead to an increase in the number of calories burned during digestion. Understanding the thermic effect of food helps in managing overall energy balance and informs dietary choices that can support weight management and metabolic health.

The other options, while contributing to overall health and metabolism, either address specific scenarios rather than the broader influence on daily caloric expenditure or do not represent a direct mechanism of influencing energy use in daily activities.