ABSTRACT
Energy density is defined as the amount of energy in a
given weight of food or the ratio of calories per gram of
food (3). Rich desserts or fried meats are high in energy
density. Fat contributes the greatest amount of energy per
gram; therefore high-fat foods have high energy density.
They provide a large number of calories in a small volume
of food. In contrast, fresh vegetables and fruits and lean
meats have low energy density. They provide fewer
calories in a larger portion size. These items are low in
fat and concentrated starches and sugars and high in
fiber and water content. Water and fiber provide weight,
but are energy-dilute. Low-energy-density foods provide
volume and weight that contribute to satiation and satiety
(Table 1) (4). In a clinical trial, individuals who ate low-
energy-dense foods were more successful at weight loss
than those who restricted fat and portion sizes. Eating
satisfying portions of low-energy-dense food helped to
enhance satiety and allowed the participants to reduce
energy intake without counting calories (5).
