In human nutrition, how many calories per gram do vitamins provide?

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

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that calories per gram indicate the amount of energy a nutrient provides when metabolized by the body.
2. Recall that macronutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins, and fats provide calories: carbohydrates and proteins provide approximately 4 kcal/g, fats provide about 9 kcal/g, and alcohol provides about 7 kcal/g.
3. Recognize that vitamins are micronutrients, which means they are required in small amounts and do not provide energy (calories) themselves.
4. Therefore, vitamins do not contribute calories per gram because they are not metabolized for energy.
5. Conclude that the number of calories per gram provided by vitamins is 0 kcal/g.