Using the energy values for foods (see TABLE 3.7), determine each of the following (round off the answer for each food type to the tens place): d. the grams of fat in one avocado that has 405 kcal, 13 g of carbohydrate, and 5 g of protein

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the energy contribution of carbohydrates and proteins using their respective caloric values: carbohydrates provide 4 kcal/g and proteins provide 4 kcal/g.
2. Calculate the total energy provided by carbohydrates: multiply the grams of carbohydrates (13 g) by the caloric value per gram (4 kcal/g).
3. Calculate the total energy provided by proteins: multiply the grams of protein (5 g) by the caloric value per gram (4 kcal/g).
4. Subtract the sum of the energy from carbohydrates and proteins from the total energy (405 kcal) to find the energy provided by fats.
5. Determine the grams of fat by dividing the energy provided by fats by the caloric value per gram of fat (9 kcal/g).

Key Concepts

Caloric Value of Macronutrients

Each macronutrient contributes a specific number of calories per gram: carbohydrates provide 4 kcal/g, proteins also provide 4 kcal/g, and fats provide 9 kcal/g. Understanding these values is essential for calculating the total caloric content of a food item based on its macronutrient composition.

Energy Balance Equation

The energy balance equation states that the total energy intake from food must equal the total energy expenditure for weight maintenance. In this context, knowing the total caloric intake from an avocado allows for the calculation of the grams of fat by subtracting the caloric contributions from carbohydrates and proteins.

Nutritional Composition Calculation

To determine the grams of fat in a food item, one must first calculate the total calories contributed by carbohydrates and proteins, then subtract this from the total caloric value of the food. This calculation is crucial for understanding the macronutrient distribution in foods and their impact on dietary choices.