What defines a positive energy balance?

A positive energy balance occurs when energy intake exceeds energy expenditure. This means that the calories consumed through food and beverages are greater than the calories burned through metabolic processes and physical activity. When this state persists, it can lead to weight gain as the surplus energy is typically stored as fat in the body.

In contrasting this with other options, energy intake equaling energy expenditure reflects a state of maintenance, where there is neither weight gain nor loss. When energy expenditure exceeds energy intake, it results in a negative energy balance, leading to weight loss as the body uses stored energy to meet its needs. Lastly, the idea of energy intake and expenditure being independent suggests a lack of relationship between the two, which does not accurately reflect the physiological processes involved in energy balance. Hence, the correct definition of a positive energy balance is when energy intake exceeds energy expenditure.