Abstract
The objectives were to compare perceptions of energy intake targets for weight loss with those derived from measured resting energy expenditure and to evaluate energy-related knowledge and skills. Resting energy expenditure was measured by a handheld calorimeter. A questionnaire was used to evaluate perceptions and skill in estimating calorie intake targets and the calorie content of a 900-kcal menu, respectively. Portion sizes were estimated from food models. Estimates of perceived energy intake were significantly lower than targets derived from a measured resting energy expenditure. Twelve to 50% of portion sizes were estimated correctly, and meal calorie content was underestimated. Overweight women have low energy-related nutrition literacy.