To understand how many calories are in 1 kg of fat, let’s first look at the energy density of fat. Fat is the most energy-dense macronutrient we consume, and its energy content is commonly accepted to be about 9 kilocalories (kcal) per gram.
If you do a simple calculation, taking the fact that there are 9 kcal in each gram of fat and multiplying that by the number of grams in a kilogram (which is 1,000 grams), you get:
9 kcal/g x 1,000 g/kg = 9,000 kcal
So, 1 kg of body fat contains approximately 9,000 kilocalories.
It’s worth noting, however, that the actual number of calories needed to burn off 1 kg of body fat might be slightly more than 9,000. This is because our body’s fat tissue isn’t pure fat. It contains other things like water, protein, and other cells. So, when we say we’re losing 1 kg of “body fat,” we’re actually talking about losing a kilogram of adipose (or fat) tissue, which might not equate to a full 9,000 kcal worth of energy. But for simplicity and general understanding, the figure of 9,000 kcal for 1 kg of fat is a good reference point.
Now, if you’re looking to lose fat, it’s essential to create a calorie deficit. This means you’ll want to burn more calories than you consume. So, to lose 1 kg of fat, you’d aim to create a cumulative deficit of around 9,000 kilocalories, considering other factors and individual differences. Remember, sustainable and safe weight loss involves more than just counting calories, including maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in regular exercise, and consulting with health professionals for personalized advice.