How many calories are in one gram of carbohydrates?

One gram of carbohydrates contains 4 calories. This value is based on the standard caloric energy release that carbohydrates provide when metabolized. Carbohydrates are a primary source of energy for the body, and their caloric value is consistent across different types of carbohydrate sources, such as sugars and starches.

Understanding the caloric content of macronutrients is essential for nutrition professionals as it helps in dietary planning and understanding energy balance. For instance, when creating meal plans or analyzing food labels, knowing that carbohydrates provide 4 calories per gram allows for accurate calculations of total caloric intake from carbohydrates in the diet.

In contrast, other macronutrients have different caloric values. Fats, for example, provide 9 calories per gram, and proteins provide 4 calories per gram, which is why distinguishing these values is important for effective nutritional guidance.