A Guide to Nutrition: How many strawberries are 40 calories?

October 16, 2025 •

3 min read

A single medium strawberry contains approximately 4 calories, making them a delicious, low-calorie snack. This allows us to answer how many strawberries are 40 calories? with a simple calculation, revealing just how nutrient-dense these berries are for a healthy diet.

Quick Summary

The number of strawberries that equal 40 calories varies based on size; it is typically between 6 to 10 berries. This serving provides a wealth of vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants for minimal caloric cost.

Key Points

Size Matters: The number of strawberries in a 40-calorie portion depends on their size, with medium berries being approximately 4 calories each.
Nutrient-Dense: Strawberries are not just low in calories but are also an excellent source of Vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, supporting overall health.
Low Glycemic Index: Strawberries have a low GI score, helping to maintain stable blood sugar levels and control cravings.
Weight Management Ally: Their high water and fiber content promote fullness, making them an effective tool for managing weight by reducing overall calorie intake.
Versatile and Delicious: Strawberries can be easily incorporated into various meals and snacks, from smoothies and salads to simple, fresh treats.
Hydrating Snack: With over 90% water content, strawberries help contribute to daily hydration needs while providing flavor and nutrients.

Strawberry Calorie Count by Size

To determine exactly how many strawberries are 40 calories, you need to consider the size of the fruit. As with most produce, the calorie count is directly related to its size and weight. Here's a breakdown based on average values:

Size-based calorie approximations:

Small Strawberries: A small strawberry (about 1 inch in diameter) contains roughly 2 calories.
Medium Strawberries: A medium strawberry (about 1.25 inches in diameter) contains approximately 4 calories.
Large Strawberries: A large strawberry (over 1.5 inches in diameter) can range from 6 to 9 calories.

So, how many strawberries are 40 calories?

Using these estimates, a 40-calorie serving could look like this:

20 Small Strawberries: Ideal for adding a small, sweet touch to a variety of dishes.
10 Medium Strawberries: A satisfying, healthy snack portion that is easy to measure.
6-7 Large Strawberries: A generous handful of larger berries provides a quick, nutrient-packed energy boost.

The larger picture: Nutritional profile of strawberries

Beyond their low calorie count, strawberries are a nutritional powerhouse. They are primarily composed of water (around 91%), which makes them very low in energy density and highly hydrating. The remaining composition includes carbohydrates, mostly simple sugars and dietary fiber, and a small amount of protein and fat.

Here’s a deeper look into the nutritional value:

Rich in Vitamin C: A single cup of strawberries can provide over 100% of your recommended daily intake of vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports immune function and skin health.
Good Source of Fiber: Strawberries contain a decent amount of fiber, with a single cup providing about 3 grams. Fiber promotes feelings of fullness, aids digestion, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
Packed with Antioxidants: These berries are rich in beneficial plant compounds like anthocyanins, which give them their vibrant red color and have been linked to heart health and reduced inflammation.
Low Glycemic Index (GI): With a GI score of 40, strawberries won't cause a rapid spike in blood sugar, making them a great option for managing blood sugar levels.

Comparison of Strawberry Serving Sizes


Serving Size	Approx. Calories	Approx. Quantity (Medium Berries)	Benefits
100g (3.5 oz)	~32 kcal	6-8 medium berries	Standard reference, low energy density
1 Cup (Whole)	~45-50 kcal	8-10 medium berries	Common serving size, high in Vitamin C
40 kcal	40 kcal	10 medium berries or 6-7 large	Easy portion control for a specific calorie goal
1 Cup (Sliced)	~53 kcal	Varies	More volume per calorie, great for toppings

Smart ways to enjoy strawberries for weight management

Because of their low-calorie density and high fiber content, strawberries are an excellent addition to a weight management diet. Their natural sweetness can also help curb cravings for high-sugar snacks. Here are some ways to incorporate them:

Simple Snacking: Enjoy fresh, whole strawberries on their own. For 40 calories, you can have a substantial and satisfying portion.
Breakfast Booster: Add sliced strawberries (approximately 1 cup for 53 calories) to oatmeal, low-fat yogurt, or whole-grain cereal. The fiber from the berries and the grains will help you feel full longer.
Refreshing Smoothies: Blend frozen or fresh strawberries with a splash of almond milk and a scoop of protein powder for a filling, low-calorie breakfast or post-workout drink. Avoid adding high-sugar syrups.
Nutritious Salads: Incorporate strawberries into a salad with mixed greens, walnuts, and a light vinaigrette. The sweet flavor balances savory elements and adds a nutritious boost.
Healthy Dessert Swap: Replace higher-calorie desserts like ice cream or cake with a parfait made of Greek yogurt, strawberries, and a light sprinkle of granola for a protein and fiber-rich treat.

Conclusion

Understanding how many strawberries are 40 calories highlights the incredible value of these berries for a healthy and balanced diet. The exact number of berries will vary with size, but for a minimal caloric investment, you get a significant return in vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. Incorporating strawberries into your daily routine is a simple, delicious, and effective strategy for managing weight and boosting your overall nutrition, whether you enjoy them fresh, in a smoothie, or as a topping. For more information on the health benefits of strawberries, consider visiting the Mayo Clinic Health System website.

Frequently Asked Questions

There are approximately 10 medium strawberries in a 40-calorie serving, as each medium berry contains about 4 calories.

You would get approximately 6 to 7 large strawberries for 40 calories, since a large strawberry has 6 to 9 calories.

A standard 1-cup serving of whole strawberries contains around 45 to 50 calories.

Yes, strawberries are excellent for weight loss. They are low in calories and high in fiber, which helps you feel full and satisfied, reducing overall calorie consumption.

Strawberries are a great source of Vitamin C, providing more than 100% of the daily value in a one-cup serving. They also offer valuable fiber and antioxidants.

Yes, it is perfectly fine to eat strawberries every day as part of a balanced diet. They are a nutritious and healthy fruit, though moderation is key, as with all foods.

Frozen strawberries generally have a similar calorie count to fresh ones. However, be cautious of frozen products with added sugars or syrups, as these can significantly increase the calorie total.

Strawberries are one of the lowest-calorie fruits available. For example, 100 grams of strawberries (~32 calories) is significantly less than 100 grams of bananas (~89 calories).