Which of the following statements about energy balance and body weight regulation is NOT true?

Introduction / Context:
This question is from health science and nutrition. It examines your understanding of energy balance, which is the relationship between calories consumed and calories expended. Knowing which statement is not true is important for understanding obesity, weight loss, and healthy living.

Given Data / Assumptions:
- Several statements about energy balance are listed. - The task is to identify the one that is incorrect. - Basic knowledge of metabolism and physical activity is assumed.

Concept / Approach:
Energy balance is achieved when calorie intake equals calorie expenditure. Active people burn more energy, while inactive people burn less. If calorie intake exceeds energy expenditure, the extra energy is stored as body fat, leading to weight gain. If intake is lower than expenditure, stored fat is used and body weight decreases.

Step-by-Step Solution:
1. Statement B correctly defines energy balance as the balance between calories consumed and calories used. 2. Statement C correctly points out that exercise and diet strongly influence energy balance. 3. Statement D correctly states that if intake is greater than energy used, stored body fat increases. 4. Statement A claims that inactive people use more energy. In reality, inactive people use less energy than active people. 5. Therefore, statement A is not true, making it the correct answer to this question.

Verification / Alternative check:
Public health guidelines and nutrition references consistently state that physical activity increases energy expenditure. Sedentary lifestyles are linked with lower calorie use and higher risk of weight gain when calorie intake is not reduced.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Definition of energy balance (B): This is accurate and widely used in nutrition science. Influence of exercise and diet (C): Both clearly contribute to how many calories are used and consumed. Increase of body fat (D): This is a standard explanation of positive energy balance leading to fat storage.

Common Pitfalls:
Learners may misread the statement about inactive people and miss the word more. It is crucial to read carefully and compare each statement with basic scientific principles. Remember that being active increases energy expenditure, while inactivity lowers it.

Final Answer:
The statement that is NOT true is: Inactive people use more energy so they should consume fewer calories.