🔥Calories are units of energy, not just an indicator of weight gain or loss.
💡The energy content of food is measured in kilocalories (kcal).
🌿Different foods have different energy densities.
🔬The gut microbiome can affect the amount of energy extracted from food.
📈For the majority of people, the difference in energy extraction is relatively small.
What is a calorie?
—A calorie is a unit of energy, specifically the amount of energy required to heat 1 gram of water by 1 degree Celsius.
Why do different foods have different calorie contents?
—Different foods have different energy densities. Fats have more calories per gram than carbohydrates.
Can the amount of energy extracted from food vary?
—Yes, factors like gut microbiome can affect how much energy is extracted from food. However, for most people, the difference is relatively small.
Do calories contribute to weight gain or loss?
—Calories are not the sole factor in weight gain or loss, but they do play a role. Consuming more calories than you burn can lead to weight gain, while consuming fewer calories can lead to weight loss.
Should I track my calorie intake?
—Tracking calorie intake can be helpful for some individuals who are trying to achieve specific health or weight goals. However, it is not necessary for everyone and may not be the most effective approach for long-term health.
00:00Calories are units of energy, with 1 calorie equal to the energy required to heat 1 gram of water by 1 degree Celsius.
00:25Different foods have different energy densities, with fats having more calories per gram than carbohydrates.
02:20The gut microbiome can affect the amount of energy extracted from food.
03:49Factors like gut microbiome can affect how much energy is extracted from food, but the difference is relatively small for most people.
04:41Calories are not the sole factor in weight gain or loss, but they do play a role. Consuming more calories than you burn can lead to weight gain, while consuming fewer calories can lead to weight loss.
