Caloric Breakdown of 200 Grams of Grape Tomatoes
A 200-gram serving of raw grape tomatoes is a very low-calorie food, with the majority of its energy coming from carbohydrates and a small amount from protein and fat. This makes them an ideal choice for those looking to maintain or lose weight while still getting a significant amount of nutrients. The precise breakdown of calories in 200g of grape tomatoes is as follows:
- Calories from Carbohydrates: Approximately 24 calories (8 grams of carbs)
- Calories from Protein: Approximately 8 calories (2 grams of protein)
- Calories from Fat: Approximately 4 calories (0.4 grams of fat)
It is important to note that the exact calorie count can vary slightly depending on the ripeness, specific variety, and growing conditions of the tomatoes, as indicated by some data showing figures slightly higher or lower than the average of 36. However, the general consensus places them in the low-calorie category, making them a consistently healthy choice. Their low-calorie density is largely due to their high water content.
A Closer Look at the Nutritional Profile
Beyond just the low-calorie count, 200 grams of grape tomatoes offers a powerhouse of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. This serving provides a range of beneficial compounds that contribute to overall health without the caloric burden found in many other foods.
Key Nutrients in 200g of Grape Tomatoes
- Vitamins: A significant source of Vitamin C (around 30% of the Daily Value) and a good source of Vitamin A (9% DV). These are crucial for immune function, skin health, and vision.
- Antioxidants: Rich in lycopene, a potent antioxidant that gives tomatoes their red color. Lycopene has been linked to potential health benefits such as reducing the risk of heart disease and certain cancers.
- Fiber: Contains dietary fiber (around 2 grams) which aids in digestion, promotes a feeling of fullness, and helps regulate cholesterol levels.
- Minerals: A notable source of potassium (around 10% DV), which is essential for regulating blood pressure and heart function.
Comparison: Grape Tomatoes vs. Other Snacks
To put the nutritional value of grape tomatoes into perspective, let's compare a 200-gram serving to other common snack options. As you can see, grape tomatoes provide significant nutritional benefits for a fraction of the calories, making them an excellent healthy choice.
| Nutrient | 200g Grape Tomatoes | 200g Potato Chips | 200g Plain Yogurt | 200g Strawberries |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~36 kcal | ~1070 kcal | ~120 kcal | ~64 kcal |
| Protein | 2g | 10g | 20g | 1.3g |
| Carbohydrates | 8g | 114g | 16g | 15g |
| Fat | 0.4g | 66g | 0g | 0.6g |
| Fiber | 2g | 8g | 0g | 4g |
| Notable Vitamins | A, C | - | B2, B12 | C |
How to Incorporate Grape Tomatoes into Your Diet
Grape tomatoes are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Their small size and sweet flavor make them a convenient addition to many meals and snacks.
- Snacking: Eat them raw as a quick, refreshing, and low-calorie snack straight from the container.
- Salads: Add them to green salads, pasta salads, or grain bowls for a pop of color and flavor.
- Roasted: Roast them with a little olive oil, garlic, and herbs to create a savory side dish or pasta sauce base.
- Kebabs: Skewer them with mozzarella balls and basil for a simple, elegant caprese kebab.
- Salsas: Dice them finely and mix with onions, jalapeños, and cilantro for a fresh, homemade salsa.
- Sauces: They can be used as a base for quick pasta sauces or added to casseroles for extra flavor.
Conclusion: The Low-Calorie Powerhouse
In summary, 200 grams of grape tomatoes delivers a surprisingly low calorie count of approximately 36 calories, making them an excellent choice for a healthy diet. Their high water content and rich nutritional profile—including significant amounts of fiber, vitamin C, and lycopene—mean you can enjoy a flavorful, satisfying snack without the caloric load associated with many processed foods. Whether eaten raw, roasted, or incorporated into a variety of dishes, grape tomatoes are a versatile and nutritious food that supports weight management and overall health. For those seeking to fill up on wholesome, low-calorie foods, these small but mighty tomatoes are a perfect fit.
