Estimates of energy intake, requirements and imbalances based on anthropometric measurements at global, regional and national levels and for sociodemographic groups: a modelling study

Summary

This modelling study developed improved estimates of global energy intake, requirements and imbalances by pairing predictive equations derived from doubly labelled water studies with global datasets on anthropometric measures and physical activity. The analysis revealed that in 2020, average global energy intake (2160 kcal/day) exceeded the energy requirements to attain healthy body weights by 80 kcal/day on average, with marked regional variation and evidence of a 30-year shift towards surplus intake in many countries. The findings suggest that anthropometric-based estimates provide a more robust tool for dietary analysis and policy planning than existing approaches.

Regional applicability

The United Kingdom, as a high-income country, likely falls within the observed range of high energy intake relative to requirements for healthy weights. The methodological approach and global benchmarks may be applicable to UK dietary surveillance and public health nutrition policy, particularly in understanding population-level energy imbalances and trends.

Key measures

Energy intake (kilocalories per person per day), energy requirements for healthy body weight (based on normal BMI), energy imbalance (difference between intake and requirements), body weight, height, physical activity levels

Outcomes reported

The study estimated global energy intake, energy requirements for healthy body weights, and energy imbalances (the difference between actual and recommended intake) at global, regional, national and sociodemographic levels. Results showed average global energy intake exceeded requirements for healthy body weights by 80 kcal/day, with 97% of countries above recommendations.

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