Tag: Digestion efficiency

Under normal circumstances, the human body is remarkably efficient, absorbing over 95% of the macronutrient energy (carbohydrates, proteins, and fats) from our food. However, this high rate of caloric absorption doesn't tell the whole story about what percentage of our food do we absorb. Factors like the type of food, our individual health, and the specific nutrients involved all play a significant role in determining how much we truly benefit from our diet.

According to the National Institutes of Health, the body typically absorbs over 95% of food energy under normal circumstances, but that figure is far from a complete picture. The simple answer to the question, "Do you absorb all calories you consume?" is no, but the reasons behind this are complex and fascinating. It's a nuanced process influenced by biology, food composition, and even cooking methods.

Studies in humans have observed a small, statistically significant reduction in apparent protein digestibility (typically less than 10%) when consuming a high-fiber diet compared to a low-fiber diet. So, **does fiber make you absorb less protein**? The reality is nuanced, and for most healthy individuals with adequate protein intake, this interaction is not a cause for concern.