In nutrition, how many kilocalories (kcal) does 1 gram of ethanol (alcohol) provide?

• A. 7 kcal per gram
• B. 9 kcal per gram
• C. 4 kcal per gram
• D. 0 kcal per gram

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the energy content of macronutrients is measured in kilocalories (kcal) per gram, which indicates how much energy the body can obtain from each gram of the substance.
2. Recall the standard energy values for the main macronutrients: carbohydrates provide 4 kcal/g, proteins provide 4 kcal/g, fats provide 9 kcal/g, and ethanol (alcohol) provides a different value.
3. Recognize that ethanol is a unique macronutrient because it provides energy but is not a nutrient required for bodily functions.
4. Use the known energy value for ethanol, which is commonly accepted in nutrition science as 7 kcal per gram.
5. Conclude that 1 gram of ethanol provides 7 kilocalories of energy, which is between the energy provided by carbohydrates/proteins and fats.