Thermic effect of food

The thermic effect of food (TEF) is the energy your body uses to digest, absorb, and process the nutrients from your meals. When you eat, your body works to break down food, absorb nutrients, and eliminate waste, which requires calories. TEF varies depending on the type of food—protein generally requires more energy to process than fats or carbohydrates. Typically, TEF accounts for about 10% of your total daily calorie expenditure. It’s a natural part of how your body manages energy, helping to regulate weight and metabolism in response to your eating habits.