November 23, 2013
What Does 200 Calories Look Like?
1 French Fries
73 grams of french fries from Jack in the Box is equivalent to 200 calories! Compare this to the 200 calorie portion of food such as celery and broccoli and you’ll be shocked! We all know that french fries should only be a “sometimes food” because they’re not good for us, but just how bad are they really? French fries (like most fried foods) contain high levels of fats, especially saturated fats. French fries also contain a lot of sodium, so they therefore are not too healthy for your heart!
2 Broccoli
We know not everyone likes to eat their green vegetables, but judging from this picture, it looks like Mom is always right! Broccoli is not only low in calories, but it also contains nutrients including vitamin C, vitamin A (mostly as beta-carotene), folic acid, calcium, and fiber. It’s jam-packed with all of the good stuff, and a whopping 588 grams would have to be eaten in order to consume 200 calories.
3 Trail Mix
We know what you’re thinking, if nuts are so good for you, then why is the portion size so small? Although only 33 grams of trail mix is equivalent to 200 calories, it is a good source of iron and calcium. However, trail mix also contains high quantities of fat, especially saturated fat, which is detrimental to your cholesterol levels. So remember, a handful of trail mix is all you need to satisfy those cravings!
4 Smoked Turkey Ham
This one might surprise you, but 204 grams of smoked turkey ham is equivalent to 200 calories! Turkey ham is a good source of protein and iron, however it also contains other things such as saturated fat, cholesterol, and sodium. Out of all of the processed meats though, turkey is definitely one of the healthiest, so like most foods, always eat it in moderation!
5 Sausage
A 66 grams portion of sausages is equivalent to 200 calories. Whether on a BBQ or in a hot dog, sausages are a popular food, however what are the nutritional short falls or benefits of sausages? Sausages are a source of carbohydrates, fat, and fiber, so are best eaten in moderation or with plenty of fresh vegetables! Remember this next time you’re in need of an after-drinking snack…
6 Peanut Butter
Yikes – Just one small 34 grams portion of peanut butter is the equivalent to 200 calories! Looks like it’s time to go easy on the spread… It is important to mention though that although peanut butter is high in calories, this doesn’t mean it is necessarily bad for your health! It is packed with vitamin E and cholesterol-regulating monounsaturated fats, and apparently has the ability to lower bad LDL cholesterol while maintaining good HDL cholesterol.
7 Pasta
It’s not just Italians who love their pasta, everyone seems to love this staple food! 145 grams of pasta is equivalent to 200 calories, and that’s probably why a bowl full of spaghetti always keeps you feeling full for hours! Pasta is low in fat and it is also a grain-based food. The dietary fiber in pasta also helps to keep the bowels functioning properly.
8 Mini Carrots
57 grams of these cute mini carrots is the equivalent to 200 calories – That’s more than an entire plate! Like all vegetables, carrots are fantastic for your overall health and well-being. They contain beta-carotenes, vitamin A, minerals and anti-oxidants in large quantities, so they’re delicious and beneficial to your body. They also contain no harmful fats or cholesterol.
9 Fruit Loops Cereal
A 51 grams portion of Fruit Loops is equivalent to 200 calories. We can think of better ways to start our morning than to a highly-processed, colorful bowl of 200 calories, can’t you? Fruit Loops contain saturated fat, sodium, and sugar, so next time you go to grab the box of rainbow cereal, opt for some fresh fruit or fat-free yogurt instead. Your body will thank you for it!
10 Cheddar Cheese
Cheese is just too good to say no to, but did you know that only 51 grams of cheddar cheese is equivalent to 200 calories? Cheddar cheese contains a large amount of saturated fat, which is detrimental to your cholesterol levels. Although the cheese does contain small levels of vitamin A, it is also a source of sodium which is bad for your cardiovascular health. Cheese, including cheddar cheese, is a great source of calcium however, but it should be eaten in small portions to avoid high fat content.
11 Celery
Okay, so celery isn’t exactly the tastiest food in the world, but it certainly is great for you! A massive 1,425 grams is the equivalent to 200 calories, and if that wasn’t enough to persuade you about the vegetable’s amazing nutritional properties, then perhaps these facts will! Celery has anti-inflammatory health benefits, including providing protection against inflammation in the digestive tract. Celery is also a good source of vitamin C and flavonoids.
12 Butter
Let’s face it, butter has never been good for us, but if you needed more proof then here it is! Just 28 grams of butter is the equivalent to 200 calories…Compare this with other food such as apples and broccoli and that’s one huge difference! If you love lashings and lashings of butter on things such as bread and hot cakes, then do not fear. You can still enjoy that buttery goodness, but just go easy on the amount.
13 Bagel With Sesame Seeds
That’s right, A whole bagel contains a lot more than 200 calories! 70 grams of a bagel is equivalent to 200 calories, so if you’re watching your weight, try to go easy on your bagel’s filling or spread. Although a bagel on its own contains very little fat, you must still keep in mind that calories also contribute to your overall health and weight. Even opting for a small bagel will decrease the calories you consume!
14 Avocado
It takes 125 grams of avocado (or a large avocado) to reach 200 calories – Now, that is impressive! Did you know that eating avocado has a number of benefits for your well-being and health? Avocados are rich in vitamin C, are a powerful antioxidant, a great source of fiber, and contain vitamin E? So next time you’re feeling hungry, opt for a sandwich with avocado on it!
15 Apples
We all know that an apple a day keeps the doctor away, but here’s the proof that apples are also a great, healthy and low-calorie snack! To consume 200 calories, you’d have to eat a whole plate full of apple slices! Compare this huge portion to the tiny portion sizes of fattier foods and the difference could not be more astonishing.