Surveys show that people who use calorie information to decide which foods to eat consume on average 100 calories less than they would if they didn’t check calorie information before eating. Strangely though, people who use calorie information in this way weigh more on average than people who don’t check calorie information before eating.
Which one of the following, if true, best explains the surprising statistic stated above?
Which following?
To determine the best explanation for the surprising statistic provided, we need to review the given information. The surveys show that individuals who use calorie information consume 100 calories less than those who don't check calorie information. However, the same group of people who use calorie information weigh more on average compared to those who don't.
To identify the best explanation, we can consider the possible factors that could contribute to this outcome. One potential explanation could be that individuals who use calorie information may be consuming low-calorie foods but larger portions. This could lead to an increased calorie intake overall, despite the smaller number of calories per food item.
To choose the best answer, we need to consider which option provides a plausible explanation for the observed phenomenon. Let's evaluate the given answer choices:
A) The people in the survey do not accurately estimate the number of calories they consume - This option suggests that people who use calorie information might not accurately estimate their calorie intake. While this could be a contributing factor, it does not directly explain why individuals who use calorie information weigh more on average.
B) People who do not use calorie information tend to be more health-conscious - This option indicates that individuals who don't use calorie information might have a greater awareness of their overall health. However, it does not explain why they weigh less on average compared to those who use calorie information.
C) People who use calorie information tend to overestimate the number of calories they burn through exercise - This option suggests that individuals who use calorie information might overestimate the calories burned during exercise. Although this could be a factor, it does not explicitly account for the weight difference between the two groups.
D) People who use calorie information choose higher-calorie options within a given food category - This option proposes that individuals who use calorie information might select higher-calorie options within a specific food category. This could explain why they weigh more on average, as their food choices could be higher in calories despite checking the information.
Based on the evaluation, option D seems to provide the best explanation for the observed phenomenon. By choosing higher-calorie options within a given food category, individuals who use calorie information could consume more calories overall, leading to a higher weight average compared to those who don't check calorie information.
Therefore, option D is the most plausible explanation for the surprising statistic provided.