How many calories does fat provide per gram?

Fat provides approximately 9 calories per gram, which is higher than the caloric content of carbohydrates and proteins, both of which offer roughly 4 calories per gram. This high caloric density makes fats a significant source of energy for the body. In the context of nutrition, understanding the caloric content of macronutrients is essential for constructing balanced diets and managing energy intake. Knowing that fats supply 9 calories per gram helps in dietary planning, particularly for those looking to manage weight or enhance performance, as they need to consider how much energy each macronutrient contributes to their overall caloric intake.