Education Phase 2 Energy balance and portion size

Energy in We need and use energy to live, e.g. breath, move, smile, talk, think. Food and drinks provides us with energy. This is called energy in.

Energy out We use energy to grow, be active and maintain health. It is not just exercise that uses energy – everyday activities also use energy. The energy we use is called energy out.

To maintain a healthy weight we need to make sure that the energy we take in (food and drinks) equals the energy we use (activity). Energy in (food and drink) Energy out (activity) When this happens it is called energy balance.

Our portion sizes (and the food type) can affect the amount of energy we take in.

Energy in (food and drink) Energy out (activity) If we eat larger portion sizes (or eat foods which provide more energy) than what we need, this may result in extra energy we cannot use. If this happens regularly, we can start to gain weight. We are no longer in energy balance.

Energy in (food and drink) Energy out (activity) If we eat smaller portion sizes (or eat foods which provide less energy) than what we need this may result in too little energy for our activities. If this happens regularly, we can start to lose weight. We are no longer in energy balance.

To make sure we stay a healthy weight, we need to choose portion sizes which meet our needs and be active. What factors can you think of which may affect our needs?