1 serving (100 grams) contains 258 calories, 18.5 grams of protein, 20.4 grams of fat, and 0.0 grams of carbohydrates.
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Nutrition Information
Calories |
614.3 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 48.6 g | 62% | |
| Saturated Fat | 21.9 g | 109% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 190.5 mg | 63% | |
| Sodium | 166.7 mg | 7% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 0 g | 0% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 0 g | 0% | |
| Sugars | 0 g | ||
| protein | 44.0 g | 88% | |
| Vitamin D | 0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 26.2 mg | 2% | |
| Iron | 4.3 mg | 23% | |
| Potassium | 642.9 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 Leg of lamb
Leg of lamb is a cut of meat derived from the hind quarter of young sheep, often consumed roasted or braised in various cuisines, including Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and European traditions. It is known for its tender texture and rich flavor. Nutritionally, leg of lamb is a high-protein food, providing roughly 25 grams of protein per 100 grams (cooked) and serving as a good source of essential nutrients such as Vitamin B12, iron, zinc, and selenium. Although relatively high in fat, the fat content varies depending on preparation and trimming methods, with approximately 12 grams of fat per 100 grams. It is also a natural source of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly in grass-fed lambs.
Health Benefits
- Supports red blood cell production and nervous system health due to its high Vitamin B12 content (100 grams provide over 40% of the daily recommended intake).
- Aids immune system function and wound healing because it provides zinc, with one serving supplying about 30% of the daily recommended value.
- Iron-rich, helping prevent anemia and improving oxygen transport in the body, with 100 grams contributing approximately 15% of the daily iron requirement.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store raw lamb in the refrigerator at 32°F to 40°F and use within 3-5 days, or freeze it for longer storage. Thaw frozen lamb in the refrigerator overnight before cooking and cook to an internal temperature of 145°F for safe consumption.
Common Questions About Leg of lamb Nutrition
Is leg of lamb high in protein?
Yes, leg of lamb is an excellent source of protein. A 3-ounce cooked portion provides approximately 23 grams of protein, making it a great choice for meeting your daily protein needs and supporting muscle repair and growth.
Can I eat leg of lamb on a keto diet?
Yes, leg of lamb is keto-friendly as it is low in carbohydrates and high in protein and fat. A 3-ounce serving typically contains 0 grams of carbs and around 9 grams of fat, fitting well within a ketogenic meal plan.
What are the health benefits or concerns of eating leg of lamb?
Leg of lamb is rich in essential nutrients like vitamin B12, zinc, and iron, which support energy production and immune function. However, it is also relatively high in saturated fat, with about 3.5 grams per 3-ounce serving, so moderation is key to maintaining heart health.
What is the recommended portion size for leg of lamb?
A recommended serving size of leg of lamb is approximately 3 to 4 ounces of cooked meat per person. This portion provides a good balance of protein and essential nutrients without excessive calories, around 180-200 per serving.
How does leg of lamb compare to other meats like beef or chicken?
Leg of lamb is slightly higher in fat than skinless chicken breast, yet typically leaner than fatty cuts of beef like ribeye. It is also richer in certain nutrients, such as iron and B vitamins, compared to chicken, making it a flavorful and nutrient-dense alternative.
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.
