when the body's energy intake is balanced with energy expenditure, an individual will gain weight.

No, the statement is false. When the body's energy intake is balanced with energy expenditure, an individual maintains their weight, not gains it.

Energy Balance Basics

Energy balance occurs when calories consumed (intake) exactly match calories burned (expenditure) through basal metabolism, physical activity, and digestion. This equilibrium prevents weight changes, as excess energy isn't stored as fat. In contrast, weight gain requires a positive balance where intake exceeds expenditure, storing surplus as fat—typically 60-80% of gained mass.

Why the Statement Fails

The claim flips basic physiology: balanced intake and output equals stability, not gain. Sources like scientific reviews confirm even tiny daily surpluses (e.g., 10-15 kcal) drive gradual gain over time via a "ratchet effect," but balance halts this. Quiz sites label it false outright, aligning with biology textbooks.

Common Misconceptions

• Hormonal influences : Hormones like leptin (satiety) and ghrelin (hunger) adjust to defend balance, making sustained gain harder without ongoing surplus.

• Real-world drift : Adults often gain slowly (0.5-1 kg/year) from subtle positive imbalances, not true balance.

• Bullet points for clarity:
  • Positive balance: Intake > expenditure → weight gain

* Negative balance: Expenditure > intake → weight loss

* Zero balance: Equal → maintenance

Practical Implications

Track intake via apps and activity to hit balance for maintenance. For loss, aim for 500 kcal daily deficit safely. Trends in 2026 forums echo this amid rising obesity talks, stressing consistent habits over fads.

TL;DR : Balance maintains weight; gain needs excess intake.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.