How many calories in a serving of pineapple?

How Many Calories in a Serving of Pineapple?

Pineapple is a popular tropical fruit known for its sweet and tangy taste, versatility in cooking, and numerous health benefits. With its high water content and low calorie count, pineapple makes a great addition to a healthy diet. But, how many calories are in a serving of pineapple?

The Direct Answer:

According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), a 100-gram serving of fresh pineapple contains 52 calories. This translates to about 1 cup of diced pineapple or 1 medium-sized pineapple chunk.

Factors Affecting Pineapple Calories

While a serving of pineapple contains only 52 calories, several factors can affect the overall calorie count:

• Ripeness: Overripe or mushy pineapple tends to have a higher sugar content, which can increase the calorie count.
• Variety: Different pineapple varieties, such as smooth cayenne, red Spanish, and sugar-loaf, can have varying calorie counts.
• Preparation: Pineapple chunks or slices that have been cooked or processed can have added sugars, sauces, or syrups, increasing the calorie count.
• Portion size: A larger serving size of pineapple can lead to a higher calorie count.

Pineapple Nutrition Facts

Here is a breakdown of the key nutrients in a 100-gram serving of pineapple:

Benefits of Pineapple for Weight Management

Pineapple is a low-calorie fruit that can help with weight management in several ways:

• Satisfies hunger: The fiber and water content in pineapple can help keep you feeling full and satisfied, reducing the likelihood of overeating.
• Aids digestion: Pineapple contains an enzyme called bromelain, which can help break down protein and aid digestion.
• Supports immune function: Vitamin C in pineapple can help boost the immune system, reducing the risk of illnesses that can lead to weight gain.

Health Benefits of Pineapple

Pineapple is rich in antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and other nutrients that provide several health benefits:

• Reduces inflammation: The anti-inflammatory properties of pineapple can help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of conditions like arthritis.
• Supports healthy gut bacteria: Pineapple contains prebiotic fibers that can help feed healthy gut bacteria, promoting a balanced gut microbiome.
• May reduce cancer risk: The antioxidants and other compounds in pineapple may help reduce the risk of certain types of cancer.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a serving of pineapple contains approximately 52 calories, making it a nutritious and low-calorie addition to a healthy diet. By understanding the factors that can affect pineapple calories and taking advantage of its numerous health benefits, you can enjoy this delicious fruit as part of a balanced weight management plan.

Key Takeaways:

• A 100-gram serving of fresh pineapple contains 52 calories.
• Factors like ripeness, variety, preparation, and portion size can affect pineapple calories.
• Pineapple is a low-calorie fruit that can help with weight management and provide numerous health benefits.
• Incorporate pineapple into your diet to take advantage of its fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.

Table: Pineapple Nutrition Facts