The Claim
Protein consumption results in a higher thermic effect of feeding in humans than carbohydrate or fat consumption.
What the research says
Supports is higher
Support is ahead, but a single strong opposing study can change this.
These are independent scores, not a percentage. Higher-grade studies count more, so a single strong opposing study can outweigh several weaker ones.
Eating protein causes the body to burn more calories during digestion than eating the same amount of carbohydrates or fats.
See the scientific wording
Protein consumption elicits a greater thermic effect of feeding in humans compared to carbohydrate or fat consumption, suggesting differences in postprandial energy expenditure based on macronutrient composition.
When you eat protein, your body uses more energy to break it down and rebuild it into new proteins, which burns more calories than breaking down carbs or fats.
What the research says
1 studyWhen you eat protein, your body uses more energy to digest it than when you eat carbs or fats, and this study confirms that. So yes, protein makes you burn more calories just by digesting it.
Score breakdown, mechanism chain, raw evidence, ideal studies needed & 1 supporting studies
Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.