Energy, for your daily activities

In order to grow and be active, all of us need energy. Energy released by a particular food is a critical parameter in nutrition. Several chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease have been considered to be caused by excess energy intake. Thus, knowing how much energy the food that you eat provides, will help you manage your health.

Food energy is released by different components of food like protein, carbohydrate, fat and other organic compounds. Different foods provide different amounts of energy which is measured in units of kilojoules (kJ) or kilocalories (kcal).

 One kilocalorie (1 kcal) is equal to 4.18 kilojoules (4.18 kJ).

• Fat provides 9 kcal per gram
• Protein provides 4 kcal per gram
• Carbohydrate provides 4 kcal per gram
• Alcohol provides 7 kcal per gram

Energy requirements:

Individual’s energy intake and energy expenditure balance is an important factor for good health. If there is any imbalance over long periods, changes in body weight or body composition will occur and may adversely affect health.

Energy requirements differ from person to person. It depends on factors such as age, gender, growth, body size and even climatic conditions. Thus, for groups, recommended energy allowances represent the average energy needs of individuals.

Click here to know your energy requirements

How to maintain energy balance?

In order to maintain overall health and fitness, to achieve energy balance and to reduce the risk of diseases, a certain amount of activity must be performed regularly so that the energy input meets the energy output.

References:

• Srilakshmi, B. (2006). Nutrition Science. New Age International.
• Manual, A. (2011). Dietary guidelines for Indians. National Institute of Nutrition, second edition. Hyderabad, India, 89-117.