Strawberries are a popular fruit, praised for their sweet flavor and vibrant color. For those monitoring food intake, understanding the caloric contribution of any food is necessary for dietary planning. This berry is often consumed in a “bowl” as a simple snack, leading many to seek clarity on its energy value. Strawberries naturally offer a low-calorie profile, though the final count can shift based on preparation.
Determining the Calorie Count
A standard serving size for fresh strawberries is one cup, weighing approximately 150 to 152 grams. This amount of plain, fresh strawberries contains a modest 48 to 49 calories. This low caloric density is a direct result of the fruit’s high water content, which makes up about 91% of its total weight.
The energy provided comes predominantly from carbohydrates, with negligible fat and protein. Specifically, 49 calories are composed of roughly 11.7 grams of total carbohydrates, less than 1 gram of protein, and about half a gram of fat. A bowl of fresh strawberries is a light option for managing daily calorie consumption.
Beyond Calories: Key Nutritional Components
Focusing solely on the calorie count overlooks the substantial nutritional benefits that strawberries provide. A single one-cup serving delivers an exceptionally high amount of Vitamin C, providing nearly the entire recommended daily intake for an adult. Vitamin C is widely recognized for its role as an antioxidant.
The carbohydrate content includes approximately 3 grams of dietary fiber, which supports digestive health and contributes to a feeling of fullness. The natural sweetness comes from about 7.4 grams of sugar, mostly fructose, which is absorbed differently than refined sugar.
Strawberries are also a source of several other micronutrients, including manganese, folate, and potassium. Their bright red hue signals the presence of beneficial compounds known as polyphenols, which function as antioxidants and offer broad health support.
Factors That Change Strawberry Calorie Counts
The calorie count increases significantly when other ingredients are added during preparation. Simple additions like a tablespoon of honey, often used to enhance sweetness, introduce about 64 extra calories. A small dollop of whipped cream or a two-tablespoon serving of chocolate fruit dip can add between 110 and 120 calories, shifting the total from a light snack to a moderate dessert.
Processing and preservation methods also influence the final count. Unsweetened frozen strawberries remain comparable to fresh ones, containing 52 to 61 calories per cup. However, commercially canned strawberries packed in heavy syrup contain a substantially higher caloric load, often reaching 200 to 211 calories per cup due to the added sugar solution. These variations demonstrate that the context of consumption is the primary determinant of the final calorie count.