How many calories per gram do fats provide?

Fats provide 9 calories per gram, which is significantly higher than the caloric content of carbohydrates and proteins, both of which provide approximately 4 calories per gram. This high caloric density is due to the chemical structure of fats, which consist of long chains of carbon and hydrogen atoms. When these bonds are broken down during metabolism, they release more energy compared to other macronutrients. Understanding the energy content of fats is crucial for nutritional planning, particularly in managing dietary energy intake and weight. The high caloric value of fats also plays a key role in the body's energy storage and utilization, making them an important nutrient for long-term energy needs.