The Claim

Does protein burn more calories after eating than carbs or fat?

Source: Thermic response to isoenergetic protein, carbohydrate or fat meals in lean and obese subjects.

What the research says

Supports is higher

Support is ahead, but a single strong opposing study can change this.

Supports
37score
Challenges
0score

These are independent scores, not a percentage. Higher-grade studies count more, so a single strong opposing study can outweigh several weaker ones.

Correlation
1 study reviewed
In plain English

Eating protein makes your body burn more calories after eating than eating the same amount of carbs or fat, no matter if you're lean or obese.

See the scientific wording

Protein meals are associated with a greater and more prolonged thermic response compared to isoenergetic carbohydrate or fat meals in both lean and obese adults, suggesting macronutrient composition influences postprandial energy expenditure regardless of body weight status.

What the research says

1 study
  1. Study: Thermic response to isoenergetic protein, carbohydrate or fat meals in lean and obese subjects.

    Scientists gave people meals with the same calories but different main ingredients—protein, carbs, or fat—and found that protein made the body burn more energy for longer, no matter if the person was lean or obese.

Score breakdown, mechanism chain, raw evidence, ideal studies needed & 1 supporting studies

Fit Body Science verdict — we translate health claims into clear verdicts backed by peer-reviewed research.

Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.