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How Many Calories are in 2 Whole Boiled Eggs?

4 min read

Two whole large hard-boiled eggs contain approximately 155 calories, but this can vary depending on the egg's size. As a nutrient-dense food, eggs offer a rich source of protein and essential vitamins, making them a popular choice for health-conscious individuals and those monitoring their caloric intake.

Quick Summary

The calorie count for two whole boiled eggs is influenced primarily by their size, ranging from about 108 to 180 calories. This article details the full nutritional profile, compares different cooking methods, and explains why this simple meal is a nutritional powerhouse.

Key Points

  • Calorie Range: Two large boiled eggs contain approximately 155 calories, though this can vary slightly with egg size.

  • Nutrient-Dense: Boiled eggs are a great source of high-quality protein, essential vitamins (A, D, B12), and minerals like selenium and phosphorus.

  • Yolk vs. White: The majority of an egg's calories, fat, and micronutrients are found in the yolk, while the white is primarily protein.

  • Weight Management: The high protein content in eggs promotes satiety, helping to reduce overall calorie consumption and support weight loss efforts.

  • Health Benefits: Regular consumption of whole eggs supports brain health through choline and eye health with antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin.

  • Healthiest Method: Boiling is one of the healthiest ways to prepare eggs, as it adds no extra calories from cooking fats or oils.

In This Article

Understanding the Calorie Count of Boiled Eggs

When calculating the calories in 2 whole boiled eggs, size is the most critical factor. A standard estimation for a single large egg is approximately 78 calories. Therefore, a serving of two large boiled eggs would contain roughly 155 calories. This figure is a reliable baseline for most people, but being aware of the variations by size can offer more precise tracking for dietary goals.

Calorie Breakdown by Egg Size

The calorie content of an egg increases with its size. Here is a general breakdown of how the calories in two boiled eggs change depending on their classification:

  • Small (38g): Two small eggs contain approximately 108 calories (54 calories each).
  • Medium (44g): A pair of medium eggs averages around 126 calories (63 calories each).
  • Large (50g): Two large eggs contain approximately 154 calories (77 calories each).
  • Extra-Large (56g): A serving of two extra-large eggs provides about 160 calories (80 calories each).
  • Jumbo (63g): Two jumbo eggs can reach up to 180 calories (90 calories each).

Nutritional Profile Beyond Calories

Boiled eggs are more than just a source of energy. They are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and high-quality protein. A two-egg serving offers a substantial portion of your daily nutritional needs.

Here is a list of some key nutrients found in two large hard-boiled eggs:

  • Protein: Approximately 13 grams, making it an excellent source for muscle repair and growth.
  • Fat: Around 11 grams of total fat, with a mix of saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fats.
  • Vitamins: Rich in Vitamin D, B12, and A, which support bone health, brain function, and vision.
  • Minerals: Contains significant amounts of selenium, phosphorus, and choline, which are vital for overall health.

Egg Yolk vs. Egg White

Many people are curious about the difference in nutritional content between the egg yolk and the egg white. While egg whites are known for being low in calories and high in protein, the yolk contains the majority of the egg's total nutrients.

  • The yolk of a large egg holds approximately 56 calories, while the white contains only about 18 calories.
  • The yolk is the primary source of fat, vitamins A, D, E, B12, and antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin.
  • The white is almost exclusively protein and water, and is lower in overall caloric density.

For maximum nutritional benefits, dietitians often recommend consuming the whole egg rather than just the whites.

Comparison of Egg Cooking Methods

While this article focuses on boiled eggs, it's helpful to compare their calorie count to other popular preparation methods. Boiling is one of the healthiest methods because it does not require additional fats like oil or butter, which can significantly increase the calorie count.

Cooking Method Calories (Approx. for 2 Large Eggs) Added Ingredients Calorie Source Notes
Boiled/Poached ~155 kcal None Egg itself Lowest calorie option; preserves most nutrients.
Fried ~180-240+ kcal Oil or Butter Egg + Added Fat Calorie count heavily depends on the amount of oil or butter used.
Scrambled ~180-250+ kcal Milk, Oil or Butter Egg + Milk + Added Fat Higher calorie count due to added fats and optional ingredients.

The Health Benefits of Eating Boiled Eggs

Incorporating boiled eggs into your diet offers a number of health advantages that extend beyond their macronutrient content. Here are a few key benefits:

  • Satiety: The high protein and fat content in eggs helps you feel full and satisfied for longer, which can help reduce snacking and overall calorie intake for weight management.
  • Eye Health: The antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin, concentrated in the yolk, are crucial for protecting your eyes from age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.
  • Brain Function: Eggs are one of the best dietary sources of choline, an essential nutrient important for brain health, memory, and nerve function.
  • Complete Protein Source: Eggs contain all nine essential amino acids, making them a complete protein source necessary for the body's growth and repair.

Conclusion: A Nutritious and Filling Choice

In summary, two whole boiled eggs are a low-calorie, high-protein, and nutrient-dense food, providing roughly 155 calories for a large pair. Their final calorie count depends on their size, and because they don't require additional fat during preparation, they are one of the healthiest ways to consume eggs. This versatile food supports weight management through satiety, boosts brain health with choline, and promotes eye health with key antioxidants. Whether for a quick snack or a part of a larger meal, two boiled eggs are an excellent addition to a balanced diet. To learn more about eggs and their nutritional value, visit the Australian Eggs website.

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical or dietary advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

A single large boiled egg contains approximately 77 calories, but this can range from 54 for a small egg to 90 for a jumbo one.

No, the calorie content is the same regardless of how firm the egg is boiled, as no additional ingredients are used in the cooking process.

Yes, fried eggs are generally higher in calories because of the oil or butter used during frying. For example, a fried egg can have over 90 calories compared to a large boiled egg's 77.

Yes, the color of an egg's shell does not affect its nutritional content or calorie count. The calorie difference is based solely on the size of the egg.

Eggs are a filling, low-calorie food rich in protein. The high protein content increases satiety, which can help you feel full for longer and reduce overall caloric intake, aiding in weight management.

Yes, eating only the egg whites from two large eggs would be much lower in calories, as the yolk contains the majority of the fat and energy. However, you would also miss out on many important nutrients found in the yolk.

Two boiled eggs are an excellent source of vitamins, including Vitamin D, Vitamin B12, and Vitamin A, all of which are vital for bone health, neurological function, and vision.

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Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice.