A positively or negatively skewed energy balance can influence which of the following?

A positively or negatively skewed energy balance primarily impacts metabolism, which refers to the biochemical processes in the body that convert food into energy. When energy intake exceeds energy expenditure, leading to a positive energy balance, the body is more likely to store excess energy as fat. Conversely, a negative energy balance, where energy expenditure surpasses intake, prompts the body to utilize stored fat for energy, which can lead to weight loss and metabolic adaptations.

Metabolism is intricately connected to the energy balance because it encompasses not only how food is broken down but also how that energy is used or stored. In a positive energy balance, the body's metabolism may slow down as it adapts to excess energy stores, while in a negative energy balance, the metabolism can ramp up to compensate for the lack of energy intake. This is why understanding energy balance is crucial for manipulating metabolism in dietary and fitness regimens. Other aspects like digestion, immune function, and hydration are important for overall health but do not have the direct and immediate influence of energy balance on metabolic processes.