Eggs are a staple food in many households across the world, and for good reason. They are a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals.
However, when it comes to consuming eggs, many people often wonder about the calorie count of the egg yolk versus the egg white.
Egg Yolk Calorie Count
One large egg yolk (17 grams) contains approximately 55 calories. The majority of these calories come from fat, with 4.5 grams of total fat. Of these, 1.6 grams are saturated fat, 1.8 grams are monounsaturated fat, and 0.7 grams are polyunsaturated fats.
Egg White Calorie Count
One large egg white (33 grams) contains a mere 17 calories. The majority of these calories come from protein, with 3.6 grams. Egg whites are also low in fat, with only 0.1 grams of total fat.
Additionally, egg whites contain no saturated fat, no monounsaturated fat, and only 0.1 grams of polyunsaturated fat.
Calories in an Entire Egg
An entire egg, that is an egg yolk plus an egg white, contains approximately 72 calories. To be precise, a large egg (50 grams) contains 72 calories.
Nutritional Content of Egg Yolk versus Egg White
Egg yolks and egg whites are nutritionally quite different. While the egg yolk is higher in calories and fat, it is also higher in various vitamins and minerals. On the other hand, egg whites are lower in calories and fat, but higher in protein.
Egg yolks are a good source of vitamin D, vitamin B12, and choline. Additionally, the egg yolk contains some iron, calcium, and vitamin A. However, the egg yolk is also high in cholesterol.
One large egg yolk contains 185 mg of cholesterol, which is more than half the recommended daily intake for an average adult.
Egg whites are an excellent source of protein, containing approximately 3.6 grams per egg white. They are also a good source of potassium and sodium, and contain small amounts of calcium, magnesium, and iron. Finally, egg whites contain no cholesterol.
Conclusion
In summary, the calorie count of an egg yolk is significantly higher than that of an egg white, with a large egg yolk containing approximately three times the calories of one egg white.
While egg yolks are higher in calories and fat, they are also higher in various vitamins and minerals. In contrast, egg whites are lower in calories and fat, but higher in protein. Both the egg yolk and egg white can be part of a healthy and balanced diet when consumed in moderation.