Complete Nutritional Breakdown of a Medium Wawa Chicken Noodle Soup
When you’re looking for a warm, comforting meal from Wawa, the chicken noodle soup is a popular choice. For those monitoring their diet, understanding the full nutritional profile is essential. A medium serving of this classic soup comes with a moderate calorie count and a solid protein contribution, but also a significant amount of sodium.
Here is a comprehensive look at what you get in one medium serving:
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 1280mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 13g
- Calcium: 30mg
- Iron: 1mg
- Potassium: 210mg
The High Sodium Factor
As the data shows, one of the most prominent nutritional aspects is the high sodium content, which is 1280mg. This figure represents a significant portion of the recommended daily intake for an adult, which is 56% based on a 2,300mg diet. For individuals with high blood pressure or those who are watching their salt intake for other health reasons, this is an important consideration. Broth-based soups often have a higher sodium count, and Wawa's chicken noodle soup is no exception.
Comparing Wawa Chicken Noodle Soup Sizes
To put the medium size into perspective, it's helpful to see how its nutritional value compares to the other sizes available. Below is a comparison table of the small, medium, and large Wawa chicken noodle soups.
| Nutrient | Small (130 cals) | Medium (180 cals) | Large (240 cals) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 130 kcal | 180 kcal | 240 kcal |
| Fat | 4.5g | 6g | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g | 20g | 28g |
| Protein | 9g | 13g | 17g |
| Sodium | 930mg | 1280mg | 1730mg |
As shown in the table, the sodium content increases proportionally with the size, reaching a staggering 1730mg in the large size, which is close to the daily limit for many people.
How to Order Wawa Soup Healthier
If you love Wawa's soup but are mindful of your health, here are some tips for making a more informed choice:
- Stick to the smaller size: Opting for the small size over the medium or large will significantly reduce your calorie and sodium intake.
- Choose broth-based: Wawa offers different types of soups. Dietitians often recommend broth-based options over cream-based ones, which tend to be higher in fat and calories. The chicken noodle soup is a good example of a broth-based soup.
- Check the nutrition facts: Wawa provides detailed nutrition information online via their nutrition calculator. Before you order, you can review the current data for all menu items.
- Balance with other meals: If you do choose a larger, higher-sodium soup, balance the rest of your meals for the day to be lower in sodium and calories.
Wawa Your Way Menus
Wawa offers specific menus to help customers with their dietary needs. While the chicken noodle soup is a good calorie-conscious option, you can explore their other tailored offerings, such as:
- Calorie-Conscious: This menu features items under 500 calories, which includes all sizes of the chicken noodle soup.
- Lower Sodium: While the chicken noodle soup isn't a low-sodium choice, other menu items might fit this category better if sodium is a primary concern.
- Power Menu: For those focused on higher protein and lower carbs, this menu offers alternatives like omelet bowls and no-bun hoagies.
Conclusion
A medium Wawa chicken noodle soup contains 180 calories, making it a light and satisfying meal or side. It also provides a decent amount of protein. However, its high sodium content is a significant consideration, especially if you are managing your salt intake. By checking Wawa's official nutrition calculator and making informed choices like opting for a smaller size, you can enjoy this classic comfort food while staying mindful of your health goals. It’s a smart practice to be aware of the full nutritional details of your favorite fast-food items to maintain a balanced diet. You can always refer to Wawa's nutritional center for the most current information available online: Wawa Nutrition Calculator.
