How many kilocalories are found per gram in carbohydrates?

Carbohydrates provide a significant source of energy in the diet, offering approximately 4 kilocalories per gram. This value is essential for understanding the nutritional content of various foods and aids in meal planning and energy balance. Carbohydrates are a primary fuel source for the body, particularly during high-intensity exercise and various metabolic processes.

In contrast, the other values mentioned do not accurately represent the energy yield from carbohydrates. For example, fats provide around 9 kilocalories per gram, while proteins also provide about 4 kilocalories per gram, similar to carbohydrates. Options like 7 or 14 kilocalories are not representative of any macronutrient's standard energy content and can lead to confusion when calculating dietary energy intake. Understanding that carbohydrates provide 4 kilocalories allows cooks and nutrition professionals to create balanced meals that meet energy needs effectively.