To calculate the protein content in food, you primarily need to refer to the nutrition facts label on the product.
Understanding the Nutrition Label
The nutrition facts label typically lists the amount of protein in grams per serving. This value is what you'll use to understand the total protein in the food you're eating.
- Locate the Protein Grams: Find the "Protein" line item on the nutrition facts label. The number next to it indicates the grams of protein per serving.
- For example, if a product says it has "5g Protein" per serving, then each serving contains 5 grams of protein.
Calculating Calories from Protein
According to the reference, each gram of protein provides about four calories. To find out how many calories are coming from protein you:
- Multiply the grams of protein by 4.
- Using our example of 5 grams of protein: 5 grams * 4 calories/gram = 20 calories.
- This means that of the total calories in that food serving, 20 of them are provided by protein.
Example Calculation
| Item | Protein per Serving | Calories per gram | Calculation | Calories from Protein |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nutrition Label Example | 5g | 4 Calories | 5g * 4 Calories/g = | 20 calories |
Key Points:
- Nutrition labels are your primary source for accurate protein content information.
- Each gram of protein contains 4 calories. Knowing this helps you calculate the caloric contribution of the protein in your diet.
- Use the calculation *Grams of Protein 4 = calories from protein**
