How many calories are found in one gram of carbohydrates?

One gram of carbohydrates contains 4 calories. This value is a standard measure used in nutrition and indicates how much energy is provided by carbohydrates when consumed. Carbohydrates are one of the three macronutrients, along with proteins and fats, that provide energy to the body.

Understanding this caloric value is important for various reasons, including meal planning, athletic performance, and weight management. When calculating total daily caloric intake, knowing the energy contribution of each macronutrient helps individuals make informed dietary choices. For instance, if someone consumes a food item containing 30 grams of carbohydrates, they would multiply that by 4 to determine the calories from carbohydrates, yielding 120 calories from that food.

The other values given in the question represent the caloric content of different macronutrients: proteins also contribute 4 calories per gram, while fats provide 9 calories per gram. This distinction is essential for understanding the caloric density of different food sources and their roles in a balanced diet.