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How Many Calories Are in an Apple?

Alex KataevbyAlex Kataev·Sep 23, 2024
In Short

A medium-sized apple typically contains 80-95 calories. How many calories are in an apple depends on the size and variety of the apple. Gala apples have around 80 calories, while Fuji apples contain about 71 calories per medium fruit. The apple calorie count varies, but understanding how many calories are in an apple can help with dietary planning.

Calories in different apple sizes

  • Medium apple (3" diameter):

    • 80-95 calories on average
    • Approximately 149-182 grams in weight
  • Small apple (2.5" diameter):

    • 77 calories
    • About 149 grams in weight
  • Large apple (3.25" diameter):

    • 110-130 calories
    • Approximately 175-200 grams in weight

Apple calorie count by variety

  • Gala apples:

    • 80 calories per medium apple
    • 62 calories per 109-gram serving
  • Fuji apples:

    • 71 calories per medium apple
  • Generic apples with skin:

    • 93 calories per medium apple (3" diameter)

Nutritional breakdown of a medium apple

  • Carbohydrates:

    • 22-25 grams total
    • 16-19 grams of sugar
  • Fiber:

    • 3-4.8 grams
    • 11-13% of daily recommended intake
  • Other nutrients:

    • 0.3-0.5 grams of protein
    • 0.1-0.3 grams of fat
    • 214 milligrams of potassium
    • 9.2 milligrams of vitamin C

Factors affecting how many calories are in an apple

  • Apple skin:

    • Eating an apple with skin provides more fiber and nutrients
    • Removing the skin slightly reduces calorie content
  • Processing methods:

    • Fresh, whole apples offer the most nutrients
    • Dried apples and clear apple juice may have different calorie contents

Health benefits of apples

  • Low glycemic index:

    • Apples have a glycemic index of 34-38
    • Helps in managing blood sugar levels
  • Rich in antioxidants:

    • Contains quercetin, which may have anti-cancer properties
    • May help reduce asthma symptoms and food allergies

FAQ

How many calories are in an average apple?

An average medium-sized apple (about 3 inches in diameter) typically contains between 80-95 calories. This can vary slightly depending on the specific variety of apple.

Does the size of the apple affect its calorie count?

Yes, the size of the apple directly affects its calorie count. A small apple (2.5" diameter) has about 77 calories, a medium apple (3" diameter) has 80-95 calories, and a large apple (3.25" diameter) contains 110-130 calories.

Are there differences in calorie count between apple varieties?

Yes, there are slight differences in calorie count between apple varieties. For example, a medium Gala apple contains about 80 calories, while a medium Fuji apple has approximately 71 calories.

How does the apple calorie count break down nutritionally?

A medium apple typically contains 22-25 grams of carbohydrates (including 16-19 grams of sugar), 3-4.8 grams of fiber, 0.3-0.5 grams of protein, and 0.1-0.3 grams of fat. It also provides various vitamins and minerals.

Does eating an apple with or without the skin affect its calorie count?

Eating an apple with its skin provides slightly more calories, but also more fiber and nutrients. Removing the skin will marginally reduce the calorie content, but it's generally recommended to eat apples with the skin for maximum nutritional benefit.