Cooked cabbage is a popular, nutrient-dense vegetable known for its versatility in many cuisines worldwide. Whether boiled, steamed, or sautéed, this member of the Brassica family is often incorporated into healthy eating plans. This article will provide precise nutritional information, specifically focusing on the carbohydrate content of a standard serving of cooked cabbage.
The Carb Count in One Cup of Cooked Cabbage
A single cup (approximately 150 grams) of cooked, drained green cabbage contains a measurable amount of carbohydrates. This serving size typically provides about 10 grams of Total Carbohydrates. The cooking process reduces the volume, meaning a cup of cooked cabbage is nutritionally more concentrated than a cup of raw cabbage by weight.
The Total Carbohydrate count is not the only number that matters. Within those 10 grams of carbohydrates, there are about 3.9 grams of Dietary Fiber. Dietary fiber is a form of carbohydrate that the human body cannot digest and therefore does not impact blood sugar levels.
To determine the amount of digestible carbohydrates, often referred to as Net Carbs, you subtract the fiber content from the Total Carbs. For one cup of cooked cabbage, this calculation yields approximately 6.1 grams of Net Carbs (10g Total Carbs minus 3.9g Fiber). This low figure is why cabbage is often featured in carb-restricted eating plans.
Cabbage’s Role in Low-Carb and Ketogenic Diets
The low Net Carb figure makes cooked cabbage an excellent vegetable choice for individuals following low-carbohydrate and ketogenic diets. Many ketogenic diets limit daily carbohydrate intake, and a serving of cooked cabbage fits easily within this allowance. Cabbage provides bulk and volume to meals, which can be helpful for satiety.
Cabbage also offers beneficial micronutrients that support a healthy diet. It is a good source of Vitamin C, important for immune function, and Vitamin K, which plays a role in blood clotting and bone health. These nutrients distinguish it from starchier, higher-carb vegetables like potatoes.
The preparation method can significantly alter the final carbohydrate count of any dish. While cabbage itself is low in carbs, adding ingredients like sugar in a coleslaw dressing or high-carb sauces can drastically increase the total Net Carb content. To keep the dish low-carb, cabbage should be cooked or seasoned simply with fats and non-starchy ingredients.