How many calories per gram do proteins provide?

Proteins provide 4 calories per gram, which is a fundamental aspect of nutrition. This energy value is important for understanding how our bodies use different macronutrients for energy. Proteins are essential for building and repairing tissues, and they play a critical role in various biological processes, including enzyme function and immune response. The energy provided by proteins is comparable to that of carbohydrates, which also provide 4 calories per gram. This distinction is significant when considering dietary planning and understanding how various food sources contribute to overall caloric intake. Other macronutrients, such as fats, provide a higher energy density at 9 calories per gram, while alcohol provides 7 calories per gram, which helps to outline the varying roles and caloric contributions of different nutrients in our diets.