How many calories are contained in 1 gram of carbohydrates?

One gram of carbohydrates contains 4 calories. This is a fundamental concept in nutrition and exercise physiology, as carbohydrates are one of the primary energy sources for the body. They provide energy for various bodily functions and physical activity through the process of metabolism.

When consumed, carbohydrates are broken down into glucose, which is then used by the body for immediate energy or stored for future use. This caloric value is established based on the biochemical structure of carbohydrates and their role in energy production during metabolism.

The values associated with other macronutrients are different; for instance, protein also yields 4 calories per gram, while fat provides approximately 9 calories per gram. Understanding these values is essential for developing dietary plans and for energy balance calculations in exercise programming and nutrition planning.