Proteincalorie

Proteincalorie is a term used in nutrition to describe the relationship between protein intake and total energy intake in a diet. It is commonly expressed as either the amount of protein in grams per a given number of calories or as the percentage of total calories supplied by protein. Because protein provides about 4 kilocalories per gram, the share of calories from protein can be calculated as (protein grams times 4) divided by total calories times 100. The concept is used to assess dietary adequacy, plan meals, and monitor conditions related to insufficient or excessive protein intake.

In clinical settings, attention to the proteincalorie balance helps prevent protein-calorie malnutrition and supports recovery, wound healing, and maintenance of lean body mass. In research and public health, the protein-energy ratio is considered when designing energy-restricted diets, protein-rich diets for weight management, and regimens for kidney disease, where protein intake may be moderated.

Limitations include that "proteincalorie" is not a universally standardized term; nutrition professionals more often refer to protein-energy ratio, protein density, or percent of calories from protein. The protein-calorie ratio should be considered alongside protein quality (amino acid profile), total energy needs, and other nutrients. Typical guidance places protein at roughly 10–35% of total calories, with an absolute intake of about 0.8 g/kg/day for average adults, higher for athletes or older adults.

In summary, proteincalorie describes how much of dietary energy comes from protein and helps guide counseling, planning, and evaluation of dietary adequacy, although it should be interpreted within the broader context of overall nutrition.