How Many Calories in a 40 Gram Ki Roti?

November 28, 2025 •

3 min read

According to nutritional data, a medium-sized, 40-gram whole wheat roti contains approximately 112 to 120 calories. The final calorie count of a roti depends heavily on its ingredients and preparation, including the type of flour and whether any oil or ghee is added. This guide explores the detailed nutritional facts behind how many calories in a 40 gram ki roti.

Quick Summary

This nutritional breakdown provides an in-depth analysis of the calorie content and macronutrient profile of a 40-gram roti. It clarifies how different ingredients and cooking methods, such as adding ghee or using alternative flours, can alter the total calories. The article also offers useful context on how this staple fits into a balanced diet for weight management.

Key Points

Standard Calorie Range: A 40-gram, medium whole wheat roti contains approximately 112 to 120 calories.
No-Oil Phulka: Cooking a 'phulka' without oil or ghee can reduce the calorie count to around 93 kcal per 40g.
Ghee Increases Calories: The addition of ghee or butter to a 40g roti can increase its calories to approximately 126 kcal.
Rich in Fiber: Whole wheat roti is a good source of dietary fiber, which supports digestion and helps manage weight.
Healthier Alternatives: Experimenting with flours like ragi or bajra can provide a lower-calorie alternative to whole wheat.
Nutrient-Dense: Besides carbohydrates, a 40g roti offers protein, vitamins, and minerals like iron and magnesium.

Understanding the Calorie Count of a 40g Roti

The number of calories in a roti, particularly a medium-sized one weighing around 40 grams, is a common question for those monitoring their diet. While a general estimate falls between 112 and 120 calories, this number can fluctuate. The primary reason for this variation is the recipe and cooking method. A plain whole wheat roti, cooked on a tawa without any oil or ghee, known as a 'phulka', will have a lower calorie count than one with added fat. The type of flour used also plays a significant role in the nutritional profile and calorie density.

Nutritional Composition of a 40g Roti

Beyond just calories, a 40-gram roti offers a host of other nutrients when made from whole wheat flour.

Complex Carbohydrates: Whole wheat flour provides complex carbohydrates that offer sustained energy, avoiding the blood sugar spikes associated with refined grains.
Dietary Fiber: A significant benefit of whole wheat roti is its high fiber content. This fiber aids digestion, promotes regular bowel movements, and contributes to a feeling of fullness, which is beneficial for weight management.
Protein: A single 40g whole wheat roti typically contains a few grams of protein, essential for muscle repair and general body functions.
Vitamins and Minerals: Whole wheat is a source of important micronutrients, including B vitamins, iron, and magnesium.

Factors That Influence Roti Calories

The calorie calculation for a roti is not a one-size-fits-all equation. Several factors can either increase or decrease the final value.

Addition of Ghee or Oil: The most significant factor is the addition of fat. A roti made with just water and whole wheat flour will be considerably lighter than one coated with ghee or butter. A 40g roti with added ghee can jump from ~112 kcal to around 126 kcal.
Type of Flour: While whole wheat is standard, some people use alternative flours or a combination. Options like ragi or bajra flour can alter the nutrient and calorie count. Multigrain rotis, depending on the combination, also differ from a standard whole wheat preparation.
Thickness and Size: The 40g figure represents a medium-sized roti. A smaller, thinner roti will naturally have fewer calories, while a larger, thicker one will contain more.

Roti vs. Alternatives: A Calorie Comparison

For those monitoring their intake, it's helpful to compare a standard whole wheat roti with other common alternatives and preparations. This helps make informed choices based on dietary goals.


Item	Weight (approx.)	Approximate Calories (kcal)
Whole Wheat Roti	40g	112 - 120
Phulka (no oil)	40g	93
Whole Wheat Roti with Ghee	40g	126
Bajra Roti	40g	91
Ragi Roti	40g	95
Multigrain Roti	40g	115

Making Healthier Roti Choices

To maximize the health benefits of your roti, consider the following points:

Use 100% Whole Wheat Flour: Ensure your flour is genuinely whole grain to get the full benefits of fiber and nutrients.
Opt for Phulkas: Cooking rotis without any oil or ghee significantly lowers the fat and calorie content.
Explore Multigrain Flours: Blending whole wheat with millets like ragi or bajra can further boost fiber and mineral content.
Pair with Healthy Sides: Serve rotis with protein-rich dal and nutrient-dense vegetable curries to create a complete, balanced meal.
Control Portion Size: Being mindful of the number of rotis consumed is key to managing overall calorie intake, especially for weight loss.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a 40-gram whole wheat roti is a nutritious and balanced food, typically containing 112 to 120 calories. Its final calorie count is determined by factors like the addition of ghee and the type of flour used. By choosing whole wheat, limiting added fats, and pairing it with healthy sides, roti can be an excellent component of a health-conscious diet. It is an important source of sustained energy, fiber, and essential minerals, making it a valuable staple for overall well-being.

For more information on the benefits of whole grains in your diet, you may consult resources like the Whole Grains Council website.

Frequently Asked Questions

The calorie count is based on the ingredients used. A standard 40g whole wheat roti is typically between 112 and 120 calories, with most of the energy coming from complex carbohydrates found in the flour.

Yes, adding ghee significantly increases the calorie count. A plain 40g roti is about 112 kcal, while the same size roti with ghee can be around 126 kcal, due to the added fat.

Yes, a 40g roti is a reasonable portion for weight loss when part of a balanced, calorie-controlled diet. Its fiber content helps you feel fuller for longer, which can prevent overeating.

A phulka is a type of roti cooked without any oil or ghee, often puffed up directly on a flame. A 40g phulka has a slightly lower calorie count, around 93 kcal, compared to a standard roti of the same weight.

Not necessarily. A 40g multigrain roti can have a similar calorie count (~115 kcal) to a 40g whole wheat roti (~112-120 kcal). The exact calories depend on the blend of flours used.

Yes, people with diabetes can eat whole wheat rotis as part of their diet, as it has a moderate glycemic index. Portion control is important, and pairing it with protein and fiber-rich vegetables is recommended.

A 40g whole wheat roti is a source of complex carbohydrates, dietary fiber, protein, and micronutrients like iron, magnesium, and B vitamins.