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

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

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that different macronutrients provide different amounts of energy measured in kilocalories (kcal) per gram. For example, carbohydrates and proteins provide about 4 kcal per gram, fats provide about 9 kcal per gram, and alcohol provides a distinct amount.
2. Recall that alcohol (ethanol) is a unique energy source and is metabolized differently from macronutrients like carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.
3. Remember the standard energy values for macronutrients: carbohydrates = 4 kcal/g, proteins = 4 kcal/g, fats = 9 kcal/g, and alcohol = 7 kcal/g.
4. Recognize that the problem asks specifically for the energy provided by 1 gram of alcohol, so focus on the value associated with alcohol rather than other macronutrients.
5. Conclude that 1 gram of alcohol provides approximately 7 kilocalories (kcal) of energy, which is a key fact in nutrition when calculating energy intake from alcoholic beverages.