A Closer Look at the Nutrition Facts
While knowing that two Long John Silver's hush puppies contain 150 calories is a good start, understanding the full nutritional profile is even more beneficial. These small, fried bites are a popular side, but their calorie content comes primarily from carbohydrates and fat. A single serving, which is two "pups," is relatively small in weight but packs a dense amount of energy due to the frying process. The ingredients, which include cornmeal batter, are fried in oil, contributing significantly to the final calorie count.
Macronutrient Breakdown for Two Hush Puppies
To give a more complete picture, here is the macronutrient breakdown based on official and third-party nutritional sources:
- Total Fat: 7 grams
- Total Carbohydrates: 19 grams
- Protein: 3 grams
This breakdown reveals that the majority of the calories are split between carbs and fats, a common characteristic of fried foods. The protein content is relatively low, and the fiber is minimal at around 1 gram. This combination is what gives hush puppies their signature rich and savory flavor but also contributes to their overall calorie density.
Comparing Long John Silver's Hush Puppies to Other Options
To put the numbers into perspective, it's useful to compare the nutrition of Long John Silver's hush puppies to other side items, both from their menu and from competitors. This comparison helps in making more balanced dietary choices when dining out. Note that nutritional values can vary slightly between different sources and formulations, but the following table provides a general overview.
| Item | Calories (per serving) | Fat (g) | Carbs (g) | Sodium (mg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LJS Hush Puppies (2) | 150 | 7 | 19 | 510 |
| LJS Small Fries | 230 | 11 | 29 | 240 |
| LJS Cole Slaw (1 serving) | 170 | 11 | 18 | 190 |
| Captain D's Hushpuppy (1) | 80 | - | - | - |
| Ruby Tuesday Hush Puppies (1 side) | 291 | - | - | - |
| Homemade Hush Puppies (approx.) | ~75 (per pup) | ~3 | ~10 | ~150 |
As the table indicates, the 150-calorie count for two hush puppies from Long John Silver's is not excessively high compared to some other fried sides, like a small order of fries. However, other sides, such as their coleslaw, offer a comparable calorie count with a different fat-to-carb ratio. For those counting calories, a smaller, single hush puppy from a competitor like Captain D's or a homemade version might be a better option.
What About the Sodium Content?
In addition to calories and macronutrients, it is important to consider the sodium content. A serving of two hush puppies from Long John Silver's contains approximately 510 mg of sodium. This represents a notable portion of the recommended daily intake for sodium, which is generally 2,300 mg for adults. High-sodium diets can contribute to health issues like high blood pressure, so it is important to be mindful of this when consuming fried and processed foods. The overall sodium of a meal can quickly accumulate, especially when combined with other high-sodium menu items.
Healthier Alternatives and Dietary Considerations
For those looking for a lower-calorie or healthier side option, Long John Silver's does offer alternatives. Sides like their green beans (25 calories) or corn on the cob (90 calories) provide significantly fewer calories and less fat than hush puppies. Choosing these options can dramatically reduce the overall calorie count of a meal. When ordering, you can also consider pairing your meal with water instead of a sugary beverage to further minimize calorie and sugar intake.
Understanding the nutritional information of your food is crucial for managing your diet, especially when eating fast food. By being aware of the calorie, fat, and sodium content of popular items like the Long John Silver's hush puppies, you can make smarter and healthier choices that align with your dietary goals. For comprehensive nutrition data on a wide range of foods, including fast food items, the USDA FoodData Central database is an excellent resource.
Conclusion
In summary, a serving of two hush puppies from Long John Silver's contains 150 calories, with 7 grams of fat and 19 grams of carbohydrates. While a small side, the calorie density and high sodium content should be noted by anyone monitoring their dietary intake. Choosing healthier alternatives or moderating portion sizes can help keep your meal in line with your health and wellness goals. Making informed decisions about your food is always the best path to maintaining a balanced diet, even when indulging in your fast-food favorites.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories are in one hush puppy from Long John Silver's?
One hush puppy from Long John Silver's contains approximately 75 calories, as a standard serving of two has 150 calories.
What are the main ingredients in a Long John Silver's hush puppy?
Long John Silver's hush puppies are made from a cornmeal-based batter that is deep-fried to a golden brown crisp.
Are Long John Silver's hush puppies high in sodium?
A serving of two hush puppies from Long John Silver's contains about 510 mg of sodium, which is relatively high for a side dish.
What are some healthier side alternatives at Long John Silver's?
Healthier side options include green beans (25 calories) and corn on the cob (90 calories).
How much fat is in a serving of two Long John Silver's hush puppies?
Two hush puppies contain 7 grams of total fat, with 1 gram being saturated fat.
Do Long John Silver's hush puppies contain any dietary fiber?
Yes, a serving of two hush puppies contains a small amount, approximately 1 gram of dietary fiber.
How does the calorie count of LJS hush puppies compare to their fries?
A small order of fries from Long John Silver's has more calories (230) than a two-pup serving of hush puppies (150).
Is the nutritional information for Long John Silver's hush puppies always the same?
Nutritional information can vary slightly over time due to changes in preparation or ingredients, so it is always a good practice to check the most recent data from the restaurant's official website.
Can I find Long John Silver's nutritional information online?
Yes, the official Long John Silver's website typically provides detailed nutritional information for all of its menu items.
Is a Long John Silver's hush puppy meal suitable for a low-sodium diet?
Due to the high sodium content (510 mg for two pups), hush puppies are not recommended for individuals on a low-sodium diet.
