How can calorie surplus affect body weight?

A calorie surplus occurs when the number of calories consumed exceeds the number of calories expended through metabolic processes and physical activity. This surplus provides the body with an excess of energy, which it can store in the form of fat or muscle, depending on various factors such as the composition of the diet and activity level.

When there is a consistent calorie surplus, the body begins to accumulate excess energy, leading to an increase in body weight. This phenomenon is often observed when individuals consume more calories than they burn, which can occur due to increased food intake, decreased physical activity, or a combination of both. Over time, this surplus can result in an increase in body fat, contributing to weight gain.

In contrast, weight loss occurs when there is a calorie deficit, where more calories are burned than consumed. Also, having no effect on weight or regulating weight are concepts that are inaccurate in the context of calorie surplus, as a surplus specifically influences weight gain due to the excess energy intake. Therefore, the statement that a calorie surplus leads to weight gain accurately reflects the physiological response of the body to an increased caloric intake.