1 serving (55 grams) contains 8 calories, 0.8 grams of protein, 0.1 grams of fat, and 1.6 grams of carbohydrates.
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Nutrition Information
Calories |
8.2 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 0.1 g | 0% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.0 g | 0% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 15.4 mg | 0% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 1.6 g | 0% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.7 g | 2% | |
| Sugars | 0.3 g | ||
| protein | 0.8 g | 1% | |
| Vitamin D | 0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 19.8 mg | 1% | |
| Iron | 0.5 mg | 2% | |
| Potassium | 106.7 mg | 2% | |
* 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 Leaf lettuce
Leaf lettuce, a member of the Lactuca sativa family, is a lightweight, leafy green vegetable commonly used in salads, sandwiches, and wraps. Originating from the Mediterranean region, it has been a staple in various cuisines worldwide due to its crisp texture and mild flavor. Nutritionally, leaf lettuce is low in calories, providing about 5 calories per cup (shredded) while being rich in water content (approx. 95%). It is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin K, and folate, alongside small amounts of vitamin C and manganese. Leaf lettuce is versatile and ideal for those seeking a nutritious, low-calorie addition to their diet.
Health Benefits
- Supports vision and skin health due to its high vitamin A content (approximately 148% of the recommended daily value per 100g).
- Promotes healthy blood clotting and bone health, providing about 126% of the daily vitamin K requirement per 100g.
- Contains folate, essential for red blood cell production and DNA synthesis, meeting 15% of the daily value per 100g.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store unwashed leaves in a perforated plastic bag in the refrigerator crisper drawer at 32-36°F (0-2°C) and consume within 3-5 days for optimal freshness.
Common Questions About Leaf lettuce Nutrition
Is leaf lettuce high in protein?
Leaf lettuce is very low in protein, providing only about 0.5 grams of protein per cup (approximately 10 calories). It is primarily composed of water and is not a significant protein source.
Can I eat leaf lettuce on a keto diet?
Yes, leaf lettuce is keto-friendly as it is very low in carbs, with only about 1 gram of net carbs per cup. It is a great option for salads and meal additions on a ketogenic diet.
What are the health benefits or concerns of eating leaf lettuce?
Leaf lettuce is rich in vitamins A and K, which support vision health and blood clotting. It is also a good source of antioxidants, aiding in immune function. However, because it is low in calories and macronutrients, it should be paired with more nutrient-dense foods for a balanced diet.
How much leaf lettuce should I use in a serving?
A typical serving of leaf lettuce is about 2 cups of chopped leaves, which provides approximately 10-15 calories and key micronutrients. This is an ideal portion for a salad base, which can then be supplemented with protein and healthy fats.
How does leaf lettuce compare to romaine lettuce?
Leaf lettuce is softer and has a milder flavor compared to the crisp, slightly bitter taste of romaine lettuce. Nutritionally, leaf lettuce has slightly fewer calories but similar amounts of vitamins A and K. Both are excellent choices for a healthy diet.
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.
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.
