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Energy and nutrition

The major nutrients-protein, carbohydrate, and fat-provide the body with energy. This energy keeps your heart beating, your brain active, and your muscles working. The energy is measured in calories.

  • Protein has 4 calories per gram. (A gram is a measure of weight. There are 28 grams in 1 ounce.)
  • Carbohydrate has 4 calories per gram.
  • Fat has 9 calories per gram.
Author Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer Ruth Schneider, MPH, RD
- Diet and Nutrition
Specialist Medical Reviewer Rhonda O'Brien, MS, RD, CDE
- Diabetes Educator
Last Updated February 23, 2007

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: February 23, 2007
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