A healthy adult male of average size contains approximately 11 kg of total body protein. Approximately 5 kg of this is available as a source of energy primarily from skeletal muscle. Which of the following most closely represents the total caloric contribution of this protein source during prolonged fasting?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Protein provides approximately 4 kcal per gram. If 5 kg (5000 grams) of protein is available, it would provide 5000 grams x 4 kcal/gram = 20,000 kcal. The closest option is 22,000 kcal.  The energy content of protein is approximately 4 kcal/g. Therefore, 5 kg of protein would have approximately 20,000 kcal of available energy upon catabolism.

A Healthy Adult Male of Average Size Contains Approximately 11