1 serving (4 grams) contains 15 calories, 0.0 grams of protein, 0.0 grams of fat, and 4.0 grams of carbohydrates.
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Nutrition Information
Calories |
887.6 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 0 g | 0% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0 g | 0% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 59.2 mg | 2% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 236.7 g | 86% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 0 g | 0% | |
| Sugars | 236.7 g | ||
| protein | 0 g | 0% | |
| Vitamin D | 0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 236.7 mg | 18% | |
| Iron | 5.9 mg | 32% | |
| Potassium | 650.9 mg | 13% | |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Food Attributes
Source of Calories
About Brown sugar
Brown sugar is a type of sugar that contains molasses, giving it its characteristic color and flavor. It is commonly used in baking and cooking across multiple cuisines, particularly in desserts, marinades, and sauces. Originating historically from sugarcane or sugar beet production, brown sugar is widely available in both light and dark varieties, depending on the molasses content. Nutritionally, brown sugar is similar to white sugar but retains small amounts of minerals like calcium, potassium, iron, and magnesium from the molasses. A tablespoon of brown sugar provides roughly 52 calories, mainly from carbohydrates (sucrose) with minimal fat and protein content.
Health Benefits
- Provides small amounts of calcium, which supports bone health (about 4.8 mg per tablespoon).
- Contains trace amounts of potassium, a mineral essential for maintaining normal blood pressure and nerve function.
- Supplies iron in minimal quantities (approximately 0.1 mg per tablespoon), which contributes to oxygen transport in the blood.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store brown sugar in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to prevent it from hardening. Use a piece of bread or a damp paper towel in the sealed container to retain moisture if it hardens.
Common Questions About Brown sugar Nutrition
Is brown sugar high in protein?
Brown sugar contains negligible protein, with less than 0.1 grams of protein per tablespoon (about 12 grams). It is not a good source of protein and is primarily made up of carbohydrates in the form of sucrose.
Can I eat brown sugar on a keto diet?
Brown sugar is not suitable for a keto diet due to its high carbohydrate content. One tablespoon contains about 12 grams of carbohydrates, which can quickly exceed the daily carb allowance on a standard ketogenic diet.
Is brown sugar healthy or are there concerns about its consumption?
Brown sugar provides small amounts of minerals like calcium, potassium, and iron due to its molasses content, but the quantities are minimal. Excessive consumption can contribute to weight gain, blood sugar spikes, and increased risk of health issues like diabetes and tooth decay.
What is the recommended serving of brown sugar?
It is advised to consume brown sugar in moderation. A single serving is typically considered to be 1 teaspoon (4 grams), which contains about 15 calories and 4 grams of carbohydrates. Using it sparingly can help manage calorie and sugar intake.
How does brown sugar compare to white sugar in cooking and nutrition?
Brown sugar contains slightly more minerals due to its molasses content but has a similar calorie and carbohydrate count to white sugar. It also has a richer, caramel-like flavor, making it ideal for baking and recipes where a deeper sweetness is desired.
Data Sources & Scientific References
Our nutrition data comes from trusted, authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. Below are specific scientific references and authoritative sources for this food item.
- Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2020-2025: Added SugarsU.S. Department of Health and Human Services and U.S. Department of AgricultureIncludes guidelines on limiting added sugars like brown sugar in healthy dietary patterns.
- Sugars and HealthHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public HealthSummarizes research on different types of sugars, including brown sugar, and their impacts on health and dietary recommendations.
Additional Authoritative Sources:
Daily value percentages based on FDA guidelines. Nutrient recommendations from NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
About SnapCalorie: We are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based nutrition information. Our data is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and USDA databases. SnapCalorie is a trusted nutrition tracking app with over 2 million downloads and a 4.8/5 star rating.
