In alcohol metabolism, how many kilocalories (kcal) are provided by 1 gram of alcohol (ethanol)?

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

Answer: (C)

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 metabolizing each gram of the substance.
2. Recall the standard energy values for macronutrients: carbohydrates and proteins provide about 4 kcal per gram, fats provide about 9 kcal per gram, and alcohol (ethanol) provides a different value.
3. Recognize that alcohol is metabolized differently from carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, and it provides a unique amount of energy per gram.
4. Use the known energy value for alcohol, which is commonly accepted in nutrition science as 7 kcal per gram.
5. Conclude that 1 gram of alcohol (ethanol) provides 7 kilocalories of energy, which is between the energy provided by carbohydrates/proteins and fats.