energy
About energyEnergy is a fundamental concept in food nutrition, as it represents the fuel the body needs to maintain vital functions and perform physical and mental activity. Dietary energy is measured in kilocalories (kcal) and comes from the macronutrients found in food: carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Carbohydrates and proteins each provide approximately 4 kcal per gram, while fats provide about 9 kcal per gram, making fat the most energy-dense nutrient. Alcohol, although not essential, also contributes energy at about 7 kcal per gram.The body uses this energy to support basic metabolic processes such as breathing, circulation, temperature regulation, and cellular repair, as well as movement and exercise. When energy intake exceeds energy expenditure, the excess is stored, mainly as body fat; when intake is insufficient, the body draws on stored energy reserves. The balance between energy consumed and energy used is therefore a key factor in weight management, metabolic health, and overall physical performance. Understanding how energy is presented on nutrition labels is an important part of practical food nutrition. Energy values may be listed per serving or per 100 grams, and differences in portion size can significantly affect how a food is perceived. Foods with similar calorie content can have very different nutritional profiles depending on whether their energy comes mainly from fats, refined carbohydrates, or protein. For this reason, evaluating energy in the context of overall nutrient composition is essential for making informed and health-conscious food choices. energy how to
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