Pizza is a beloved food that people of all ages can enjoy. It’s easy to order from your favorite restaurant or grab a frozen pizza from the grocery store. However, the question that many people wonder is how many calories are in a slice of pizza?.
Your Typical Slice of Pizza
The number of calories in a slice of pizza can vary greatly depending on the toppings and the size of the slice. On average, a slice of standard 14-inch pizza contains around 285 calories.
If you’re eating a thin-crust pizza, the calorie count will be lower, with an average of 218 calories per slice.
While a slice of pizza may seem small, it is important to keep in mind that it is often just the beginning. If you have three or four slices, you can be consuming upwards of 1,000 calories, which is a significant portion of your daily calorie intake.
Calories in Popular Pizza Toppings
The number of calories in your pizza will also depend on the toppings that you choose. Here are some popular toppings and their calorie counts:.
- Pepperoni: One slice of pepperoni pizza contains around 298 calories.
- Sausage: One slice of sausage pizza contains around 344 calories.
- Mushrooms: One slice of mushroom pizza contains around 250 calories.
- Extra Cheese: One slice of extra cheese pizza contains around 290 calories.
It’s important to note that if you opt for more than one topping, the calorie count will increase.
How to Reduce the Calories in Your Pizza
If you’re someone who eats pizza often, there are ways to reduce the calorie count while still enjoying your favorite food. Here are some tips:.
- Choose a thin crust pizza: Thin crust pizzas have fewer calories than thick crust pizzas, so opt for a thin crust when possible.
- Opt for vegetable toppings: Vegetables such as mushrooms, peppers, and onions have fewer calories than meats and cheeses, so choose these toppings when possible.
- Control your portion size: One slice of pizza isn’t always enough, but it’s important to try and limit yourself to two or three slices, depending on the size of the pizza.
The Bottom Line
While pizza can be a high-calorie food, it doesn’t have to be. By making some simple choices, such as opting for a thin crust and vegetable toppings, you can indulge in your favorite food without the guilt.