Define Calorie and discuss its relation to weight. A Calorie is a unit of energy. Depending on many factors, such as age, weight, sex and activity level, people's Calorie needs vary. The amount of energy, or Calories, the body uses increases as physical activity increases. A combination of physical activity and nutritious eating helps people reach and maintain a healthful weight.
Students figure basal metabolism.
Basal metabolism requires 60-70 percent of the total energy used by the body. Energy is needed for heartbeat, respiration, temperature and other functions of the body. A rough estimate of basal metabolism can be determined by figuring 1 Calorie per kg of body weight per hour. To convert pounds to kilograms, divide the number of pounds by 2.2. Physical activity increases energy needs anywhere from 25-40 percent over basal metabolism requirements.