Braum's Number 1 Combo: A Comprehensive Nutritional Breakdown
When you order the Number 1 at Braum's, you receive more than just the Quarter Pound Cheeseburger; you also get a side and a drink. Understanding the calorie count requires looking at each component of the meal individually, as the total can vary widely. The standard combo includes the cheeseburger, fries, and a beverage, but swaps are available that change the overall impact on your daily caloric intake.
The Quarter Lb. Cheeseburger: The Core of the Meal
The central item of the Number 1 combo is the 1/4 lb. cheeseburger. As of the latest available nutritional data, the cheeseburger itself contains approximately 530 calories. This portion of the meal also includes a significant amount of fat, carbohydrates, and protein.
- Total Calories: 530
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 29g
- Sodium: 1420mg
Calorie Comparison: Standard Fries vs. Other Sides
Your choice of side with the combo dramatically influences the total calorie count. While the standard pairing is a medium order of crinkle-cut fries, Braum's offers other options, such as yogurt, which can reduce the overall calories.
| Item | Portion | Calories | Total Fat (g) | Carbs (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cheeseburger | 1/4 lb. | 530 | 28 | 40 |
| Medium Fries | 1 serving | 310 | 14 | 43 |
| Fruit & Yogurt Swirl | 1 serving | 280 | 5 | 44 |
This comparison table shows that opting for the fruit and yogurt swirl over the medium fries can save you around 30 calories, with a significantly lower fat content. While the difference is not monumental, these small substitutions can contribute to a healthier overall meal.
Impact of Beverage Choice on Total Calories
The third and often most varied component of the Braum's combo is the beverage. For many, a sugary soft drink is the go-to, but this can inflate the total calorie count substantially. Here is a sample list of how different drink options affect your meal's final tally:
- Medium Soft Drink (e.g., Cola): Can add well over 200 calories, depending on the specific product and size.
- Medium Premium Deep Chocolate Shake: Can add as much as 980 calories, completely changing the meal's nutritional landscape.
- Small Premium Vanilla Shake: Still very high, adding 690 calories.
- Fat-Free Milk (1 cup): A lower-calorie alternative at 130 calories.
- Water: 0 calories, making it the most health-conscious choice.
For a health-conscious diner, selecting a diet soft drink or water is an easy way to manage the total calorie count of their meal. As shown by the extreme shake calorie counts, your beverage choice holds a surprising amount of power over your overall nutritional intake for the meal.
Total Calorie Calculation
To find the exact calorie count for your Number 1, simply add up the values of each item based on your specific choices. For a standard combo with a medium cola and medium fries:
- Cheeseburger: 530 calories
- Medium Fries: 310 calories
- Medium Cola: ~250 calories (approximate, varies by brand)
- Total: ~1090 calories
If you were to swap the medium cola for a medium chocolate shake, the total would skyrocket:
- Cheeseburger: 530 calories
- Medium Fries: 310 calories
- Medium Chocolate Shake: 980 calories
- Total: 1820 calories
This demonstrates how drastically a single choice can alter the nutritional profile of your meal.
Making Healthier Decisions at Braum's
While enjoying a combo meal, there are several ways to reduce your calorie intake. You can choose a grilled chicken sandwich instead of a cheeseburger, which has 590 calories, though it is still substantial. Ordering a smaller version of your favorite item, such as the 1/6 lb Jr. cheeseburger at 390 calories, is another effective strategy. Additionally, for more detailed nutritional info, you can visit the official Braum's website for their current nutritional chart.
Conclusion
To determine precisely how many calories are in a number 1 at Braums, you must consider the sum of its parts. While the Quarter Pound Cheeseburger is a consistent 530 calories, the final total is a combination of the burger, side, and beverage. A basic combo with medium fries and a soft drink can easily exceed 1,000 calories, while healthier substitutions like water and the fruit and yogurt swirl can significantly lower that number. By being aware of the nutritional details for each component, customers can make informed decisions that align with their dietary goals while still enjoying a meal from Braum's.
