Start here · 3 minute read
What is a calorie?
A calorie is a unit of energy. Food gives your body energy to breathe, think, move and stay warm. The calories on a food label tell you how much energy a serving supplies.
A simple example
A snack labelled 150 calories supplies 150 units of food energy. It is not a score for how good or bad the snack is.
Your next step
Start by logging one meal. You do not need to learn every food label first.
A little more detail
Food labels use kilocalories, usually called calories or kcal. A gram measures weight, not energy: 100 grams of two different foods can contain very different calories. Digestion, absorption and label rounding add uncertainty.
Questions you might have
What is the difference between a calorie and a gram?
A calorie measures energy. A gram measures weight. A 30 gram serving of nuts does not mean 30 calories. Read the energy amount for the serving you ate.
Will healthy food alone make me lose weight?
Nutritious food supports health, but portions and overall energy still matter. Nuts and olive oil can be nutritious and energy-dense. Include them without treating them as unlimited.
Can I have my favourite foods?
Yes. Favourite foods can fit beside meals that provide protein, fibre and other nutrients. Log a realistic portion, enjoy it and keep eating regular meals.
Estimates and general education, not a medical prescription. Seek individual advice when your health or needs call for it.