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Calorie
A unit of food energy; the "calorie" on labels is really a kilocalorie.
Concepts
Definition
A calorie is a unit of energy. What food labels call a Calorie or kcal is actually a kilocalorie, or 1,000 small calories, equal to about 4.184 kilojoules. Your body spends energy on basic functions, digestion and movement; taking in consistently more than you spend is stored, mostly as fat, and consistently less draws on stores. Protein and carbohydrate supply about 4 kcal per gram, fat about 9, and alcohol about 7.
Related terms
Basal metabolic rate (BMR)
The energy your body burns at complete rest just to stay alive.
Macronutrient
The three nutrients the body needs in large amounts: protein, carbohydrate and fat.
Protein
A macronutrient built from amino acids that repairs and builds tissue.
Source: Standard references on food energy and units. · checked 2026-09-04
Frequently asked questions
What is calorie?
A calorie is a unit of energy. What food labels call a Calorie or kcal is actually a kilocalorie, or 1,000 small calories, equal to about 4.184 kilojoules. Your body spends energy on basic functions, digestion and movement; taking in consistently more than you spend is stored, mostly as fat, and consistently less draws on stores. Protein and carbohydrate supply about 4 kcal per gram, fat about 9, and alcohol about 7.
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