Confusion on All Sides of the Calorie Equation Lessons Learned, Future Directions

ThehighprevalenceofoverweightandobesityintheUnited States has increased attention to the importance of balancing calories in and out to achieve and maintain a healthy weight. Numerous policy and educational efforts are aimed at helping consumers achieve calorie balance. Still, a calorie disconnect exists as consumers remain largely unaware of personal calorie needs or the relationship between calories and weight management. A key first step in addressing consumers’ calorie confusion may be to familiarizethemwiththeir‘‘dailycalorienumber,’’ortheamount of calories that are needed to maintain weight, and how thatdailycalorienumberisimpactedbyphysicalactivity. The need to individualize calorie balance communications is essential, as each person has a unique weight management profile that will be impacted by many factors, including age, physical activity, and desired weight outcome. Whereas some Americans would like to maintain weight and prevent further weight gain, many others would likely benefit from tipping the calorie balance equation to achieve successful weight loss. To effectively communicate calorie balance, it is imperative to examine consumer response to calorie balance communications. Somemessagesorterminology, although widely accepted by nutrition and health professionals, may not be understood by consumers. The social-ecological model is a useful framework to further examine factors that impact behavior changerelated to foodandphysicalactivitydecisions, providing opportunities for futureresearch andinitiatives aimed at helping consumers achieve calorie balance. Nutr Today. 2013;48(5):195Y202