The quest to find out how many calories are in 8 jujubes reveals a major difference between two distinct products that share the same name: the natural, nutritious fruit and the sugary, manufactured candy. For those monitoring their calorie intake, understanding this difference is the most important step. A serving of candy jujubes is a concentrated dose of sugar and carbohydrates, while the same number of fresh jujube fruits provides valuable fiber, vitamins, and minerals with a lower overall calorie density.
The Calorie Count for Candy Jujubes
For many, especially in North America, the term "jujubes" refers to a type of gelatin-based candy. These are typically sold in packages, and a standard serving size often consists of about 8 pieces. According to several nutritional databases, a serving of approximately 8 candy jujubes contains between 120 and 140 calories.
Nutritional Profile of Candy Jujubes
In addition to the calories, the nutritional profile of these candies is important to consider. For an 8-piece serving (around 40–42 grams), you can expect the following:
- Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 33–36 grams, almost entirely from sugar.
- Sugar: About 21 grams.
- Protein and Fat: Negligible amounts.
- Dietary Fiber: None.
Because they lack fiber, protein, and essential micronutrients, candy jujubes provide a quick burst of energy from simple sugars but offer little to no nutritional value. This makes them a high-calorie, low-satiety treat that should be consumed in moderation.
Fresh vs. Dried Jujube Fruit: A Calorie Comparison
The natural jujube fruit, also known as the Chinese date, is an entirely different food. When consumed fresh, these fruits have a crisp texture and a sweet, apple-like flavor. When dried, their sweetness and chewiness increase, and their calories become more concentrated. To determine the calories in 8 fresh jujube fruits, we can use the average nutritional information for the fresh fruit. As a reference, a 100-gram serving (roughly 3 fruits, depending on size) contains about 79 calories. A single average-sized fresh jujube is therefore around 26 to 33 grams. Based on this, 8 fresh jujubes would weigh approximately 210 to 264 grams, resulting in an estimated 166 to 208 calories. In contrast, 8 dried jujubes would be much more calorie-dense.
Nutritional Table: Candy vs. Fruit
To clarify the significant nutritional differences, here is a comparison of candy jujubes, fresh jujube fruit, and dried jujube fruit.
| Nutrient (per 100g) | Candy Jujubes | Fresh Jujube Fruit | Dried Jujube Fruit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~333 kcal | 79 kcal | ~281 kcal |
| Sugar | ~50g | ~13.5g (estimate based on 20g carbs) | ~73g |
| Fiber | 0g | 10g | 6g |
| Protein | 0g | 1.2g | 4.7g |
| Vitamin C | 0mg | ~69mg (77% DV) | Lost during drying |
Health Benefits of Jujube Fruit
Beyond just calories, the health benefits of jujube fruit highlight why it is the better choice for a wholesome snack.
- Packed with Antioxidants: Jujube fruit is a rich source of flavonoids, polysaccharides, and triterpenic acids, which are powerful antioxidants that protect the body from free radical damage and chronic disease.
- Boosts Immunity: The high vitamin C content, with a 100g serving providing over 77% of the daily value, helps stimulate white blood cell activity and strengthens the immune system.
- Aids Digestion: The substantial dietary fiber in jujube fruit promotes regular bowel movements, preventing constipation and supporting a healthy digestive tract.
- Improves Sleep Quality: In traditional Chinese medicine, jujube fruit is used to promote relaxation and sleep. Studies suggest that certain compounds, like flavonoids and saponins, have a sedative effect.
How to Enjoy Jujubes Responsibly
Making jujubes a part of your diet is simple. Fresh jujubes can be eaten raw, while dried versions can be used in various recipes. The key is to enjoy them in moderation, especially the dried or candy varieties, due to their concentrated sugar content.
Fresh Jujube Ideas:
- Eat them as a standalone, crisp snack.
- Chop and add to salads for a sweet crunch.
- Blend into smoothies for extra fiber and nutrients.
Dried Jujube Ideas:
- Include them in trail mix with other nuts and seeds.
- Chop and add to oatmeal or yogurt.
- Brew into a soothing tea with ginger or other herbs.
- Use in stews or soups for a touch of natural sweetness.
Conclusion
While a definitive number for how many calories are in 8 jujubes isn't possible without specifying the type, the distinction is clear. Eight candy jujubes contain a concentrated 120–140 calories from sugar, offering minimal nutritional benefits. In contrast, eight fresh jujube fruits provide a similar number of calories but are packed with essential fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Opting for the natural fruit provides a far healthier snacking option that supports immunity, digestion, and overall well-being. Always check food labels for candy versions and opt for whole, unprocessed fruit when possible. For more information on the health benefits of this versatile fruit, explore resources like Healthline's overview of jujube fruit.
