Extra Calories Cause Weight Gain—But How Much?

This Journal of the American Medical Association article summarizes the effect eating extra calories has on weight gain, at an individual level.

The article suggests that a small increase in extra caloric intake per day, or conversely, a small decrease in caloric intake per day or equivalent increase in physical activity, would eventually lead to a fixed, stable gain or loss in weight. The authors’ underlying implications are that overarching public health programs to change the available foods in communities will prove more effective in the fight against obesity, as opposed to individual changes in diet. A subscription is required to view the article, but the abstract can be accessed for free.

View the abstract.