How Many Calories are in a Raw Carrot?
Carrots are one of the most widely consumed vegetables in the world, and they’re often touted as a healthy snack or addition to meals. But have you ever stopped to think about how many calories are actually in a raw carrot? In this article, we’ll delve into the answer to this question, as well as explore some other interesting facts about carrots.
Direct Answer:
According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), a 3-inch raw carrot weighs approximately 28 grams and contains 25 calories.
Nutritional Breakdown:
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information for a 28-gram raw carrot:
- Calories: 25
- Carbohydrates: 6.8 grams
- Fiber: 2.9 grams
- Sugar: 4.7 grams
- Protein: 0.9 grams
- Fat: 0.1 grams
Macronutrient Ranges:
Here’s a look at the macronutrient ranges for a 28-gram raw carrot compared to other common foods:
| Macronutrient | Raw Carrot (28g) | Apple (28g) | Banana (28g) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 25 | 95 | 110 |
| Carbohydrates | 6.8g | 21.4g | 22.8g |
| Fiber | 2.9g | 2.4g | 3.1g |
| Sugar | 4.7g | 19.8g | 14.4g |
| Protein | 0.9g | 0.3g | 1.3g |
| Fat | 0.1g | 0.2g | 0.5g |
Interesting Facts about Carrots:
- Carrots are part of the parsley family (Apiaceae) and are related to celery and parsley.
- Carrots are available in a variety of colors, including orange, yellow, red, purple, and white.
- Carrots are high in antioxidants, with beta-carotene being the most well-known.
- Carrots can be used in a variety of ways, including raw, steamed, roasted, grilled, or juiced.
- The beta-carotene in carrots helps to protect against cancer and heart disease.
- Carrots are a good source of vision health, with vitamin A helping to support eye health.
Benefits of Raw Carrots:
- Eating raw carrots can help to support digestive health, as they contain pectin, a soluble fiber that helps to regulate bowel movements.
- Raw carrots are a good source of prebiotic fiber, which helps to feed the good bacteria in the gut.
- Raw carrots are high in antioxidants, which help to protect against oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
- Raw carrots contain beta-carotene, which can help to support skin health and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, a raw carrot contains approximately 25 calories, with a nutritional breakdown that highlights its high content of carbohydrates, fiber, and antioxidants. Carrots are a nutritious and versatile vegetable that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, and their health benefits make them a great addition to a balanced diet. So the next time you’re reaching for a snack, consider reaching for a crunchy raw carrot instead!