STEADFAST TRAINING GLOSSARY
Definition
Energy density is the amount of energy in a given weight of food, commonly expressed as calories per gram. Calorie density is another name for it.
What it means
Energy density differs from nutrient density, which concerns nutrients relative to an amount of food or energy. A food can be energy dense and still provide valuable nutrients.
A practical example
For a simple calculation, a hypothetical 100 gram food portion containing 200 calories has an energy density of two calories per gram. Comparing equal weights helps make the concept clear.
Putting it into practice
In meal planning, consider portion size, satisfaction and the whole meal rather than dividing foods into good and bad categories. Lower energy density may help some people manage intake; people struggling to eat enough may need a different strategy.
Related terms
Satiety · Calorie Deficit · Macronutrients
Explore further
Calorie calculator and daily energy estimates · Browse the glossary
Source
Research review: Dietary Energy Density and Weight Management