TED-ED: What is a calorie? - Emma Bryce

The video explains what calories are and their role in the body's energy balance. It defines a calorie as the energy needed to raise the temperature of one kilogram of water by one degree Celsius. The video discusses how calories are used in the body for digestion, physical activity, and basic functions, and provides guidelines for daily caloric intake. It highlights that individual needs vary based on factors like activity level and age. The video also notes that calorie counts on labels may not reflect the actual energy obtained from food due to differences in digestion and nutritional value.

What is a calorie in terms of energy measurement?

• The energy needed to raise the temperature of one milliliter of water by one degree Celsius

• The energy needed to raise the temperature of one kilogram of water by one degree Celsius

• The energy needed to raise the temperature of one gram of water by one degree Celsius

• The energy needed to raise the temperature of one liter of water by one degree Celsius

What percentage of calories is typically used for basic bodily functions?

• 10%

• 20%

• 50%

• 70%

How many calories might a person need if they are cycling in the Tour de France?

• 5,000 calories

• 7,000 calories

• 9,000 calories

• 2,000 calories

Why might two people extract different amounts of energy from the same food?

• Differences in cooking methods

• Differences in food preferences

• Differences in enzyme levels and gut bacteria

• Differences in food storage

What is a key factor to consider when determining personal calorie needs?

• The color of the food

• The brand of food products

• The type of exercise performed

• The time of day food is consumed