Kilocalories to Joules Converter

Convert Food Energy from Kilocalories to Joules with Precision

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Kilocalories to Joules Calculator

Convert food energy values from Kilocalories (kcal) to Joules (J) with high precision.

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Food Energy Calculator

Calculate total food energy from macronutrients in both kcal and Joules.

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Understanding Food Energy Units

The Kilocalorie (kcal)

Key points:

  • 1 kcal = 4.184 kJ
  • Also called food Calorie (Cal)
  • Standard food energy unit
  • Heat needed to raise 1kg water by 1°C
  • Used in nutrition labeling

Macronutrient Energy

Energy content:

  • Proteins: 4 kcal/g (16.736 kJ/g)
  • Carbohydrates: 4 kcal/g (16.736 kJ/g)
  • Fats: 9 kcal/g (37.656 kJ/g)
  • Alcohol: 7 kcal/g (29.288 kJ/g)
  • Fiber: 2 kcal/g (8.368 kJ/g)

Daily Requirements

Average needs:

  • Adult male: 2500 kcal (10,460 kJ)
  • Adult female: 2000 kcal (8,368 kJ)
  • Children: 1400-2200 kcal (5,858-9,205 kJ)
  • Athletes: 3000-4000 kcal (12,552-16,736 kJ)
  • Varies with activity level

Energy Balance

Important concepts:

  • BMR calculation
  • Activity factor
  • Thermic effect of food
  • Energy expenditure
  • Weight management

Essential Energy Conversion Formulas

Basic Conversions

1 kcal = 4.184 kJ

1 kJ = 0.239 kcal

Total Energy Calculation

E(kcal) = (P × 4) + (C × 4) + (F × 9)

Where P = protein, C = carbs, F = fat in grams

Energy Expenditure

TEE = BMR × PAL

PAL = Physical Activity Level