A client proposes a diet high in processed protein bars, claiming high protein will maximize TEF and therefore burn more calories. Which evaluation is most accurate?

Processed protein bars always produce higher TEF than whole foods because processing concentrates protein and increases thermogenesis proportionally.

Switching to processed bars will cause immediate large increases in daily expenditure that exceed the calories contained in the bars, guaranteeing weight loss.

While protein raises TEF more than fat or carbs, processed protein bars often require less digestive energy than whole-food protein sources and may include added sugars, so whole high-protein foods are a better strategy than relying solely on processed bars.

Protein's TEF is negligible; therefore any emphasis on protein versus processed foods has no logical impact on energy expenditure or weight outcomes.