Atwater system
Definition
The Atwater system is a method used to estimate the metabolizable energy content of foods by assigning specific caloric values to macronutrients: carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. It is widely used in nutrition science to determine the energy available from food consumption.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
- The Atwater system assigns 4 kcal/g for carbohydrates, 4 kcal/g for proteins, and 9 kcal/g for fats.
- It helps in calculating the total caloric content of food by summing up the contributions of each macronutrient.
- Developed by Wilbur Olin Atwater in the late 19th century, it is still a foundational concept in nutritional science today.
- The system assumes that all macronutrients are fully digested and absorbed, which may not always be accurate.
- Alcohol is also considered in the Atwater system with an assigned value of 7 kcal/g.
Review Questions
- What are the caloric values assigned to carbohydrates, proteins, and fats in the Atwater system?
- How does the Atwater system help in determining the energy content of foods?
- Who developed the Atwater system and when?
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Related terms
Calorimetry: A technique used to measure the amount of heat involved in chemical reactions or physical changes.
Metabolizable Energy: The portion of food energy that is available for metabolic processes after losses in feces and urine are accounted for.
Macronutrients: Nutrients required in large amounts that provide energy; includes carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.
