Adherence
Self-reported energy intake (EI) is systematically underestimated compared to doubly labelled water (DLW) measured energy expenditure (EE) across diverse populations, including adults, children, and obese individuals.
If you are tracking your food intake for health or fitness, expect that you are likely under-reporting your calories, especially if you are dieting or concerned about body weight. Studies using objective measures like DLW show that self-reported intake is consistently lower than actual expenditure. To get a more accurate picture, consider using objective markers or acknowledging a potential 15-30% gap in your self-reported data.
it is now apparent that there is a generalized under-reporting of food intake in many subject groups ranging from children and teenagers to the elderly. This phenomenon is also prevalent in many special groups including obese individuals, athletes, military personnel and trekking explorers.
Why this rating
Based on a comprehensive review of multiple DLW validation studies across various demographics.
Source
The validity of self-reported energy intake as determined using the doubly labelled water technique
Rebecca J. Hill et al. · British Journal Of Nutrition · 2001
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