Inter-Individual Variability in Early Diet-Induced Thermogenesis After a Standardized Meal

This study aims to characterize how individuals differ in their metabolic response to food intake, specifically focusing on early diet-induced thermogenesis (DIT). DIT refers to the increase in energy expenditure that occurs after eating and reflects the body's metabolic response to processing nutrients. Healthy adult participants will complete a single laboratory visit under standardized conditions. Resting metabolic rate will first be measured, followed by consumption of a standardized liquid meal (550 kcal). Energy expenditure will then be continuously monitored for 3 hours using indirect calorimetry. The primary objective is to quantify inter-individual variability in early postprandial thermogenesis. Rather than estimating total daily energy expenditure, this study focuses on the early metabolic response following meal ingestion. Findings will improve understanding of differences in metabolic efficiency between individuals and support future research in metabolism and personalized nutrition.