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Protein to Calories Calculator

Protein conversion is simple: 1 gram = 4 calories.

Last updated: June 2026

A protein to calories calculator converts grams of protein into calories. This is essential for using the protein calculator with your calorie targets.

Illustration of converting protein grams to calories at 4 kcal per gram.

Protein calorie conversion formula

Calories from protein = grams × 4

Example conversions:

Protein (g)Calories
50 g200 calories
100 g400 calories
150 g600 calories
200 g800 calories

Protein percentages in diet

CaloriesProtein %Protein grams
1,60030%120 g
2,00030%150 g
2,40030%180 g

Protein ratios for different goals

GoalProtein per kgCalorie %
Maintenance1.2–1.6 g/kg20–25%
Weight loss1.6–2.2 g/kg25–35%
Muscle gain1.6–2.2 g/kg20–30%
Elderly1.2–1.6 g/kg20–25%

Using protein calories with macro calculator

Our macro calculator balances protein with carbs and fat:

  1. Set protein grams based on body weight
  2. Convert to calories (× 4)
  3. Allocate remaining calories to fat and carbs

High-protein, low-calorie foods

FoodCalories per 100gProtein per 100g
Chicken breast16531 g
Greek yogurt (plain)5910 g
Egg whites5211 g
Turkey breast13529 g
Cottage cheese9811 g

Combining protein with your calorie calculator

The relationship:

  • Protein uses 4 kcal/g—reduce from other macros
  • Adequate protein protects muscle during deficit
  • Protein supports thermogenesis (20–30% of its calories)

Use our weight loss calculator with protein calculator together.

Frequently asked questions

What is the protein to calorie ratio?

Protein provides 4 calories per gram. For a 150g protein target: 150 × 4 = 600 calories from protein. See our <a href='/protein-calculator/'>protein calculator</a>.

How much protein per calorie?

For 2,000 calories, protein calories at 25% = 500 calories = 125g protein. Our <a href='/macro-calculator/'>macro calculator</a> handles this automatically.

What is the ideal protein percentage?

Most adults: 20–30% of calories from protein. Higher (30–35%) for weight loss or muscle building. Use our calculators for exact numbers.

How to convert protein to calories?

Multiply protein grams by 4. Example: 100g protein × 4 = 400 calories. Easy conversion for <a href='/guides/maintenance-calorie-calculator/'>maintenance planning</a>.

Calculate your numbers

Put this into practice — get your personalized calorie and macro targets free.