1 serving (85 grams) contains 210 calories, 5.0 grams of protein, 11.0 grams of fat, and 25.0 grams of carbohydrates.
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Nutrition Information
Calories |
583.3 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 30.6 g | 39% | |
| Saturated Fat | 8.3 g | 41% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 13.9 mg | 4% | |
| Sodium | 833.3 mg | 36% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 69.4 g | 25% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 5.6 g | 20% | |
| Sugars | 2.8 g | ||
| protein | 13.9 g | 27% | |
| Vitamin D | 0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 277.8 mg | 21% | |
| Iron | 2.8 mg | 15% | |
| Potassium | 416.7 mg | 8% | |
* 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 Nacho
Nachos are a popular Mexican dish typically consisting of tortilla chips topped with melted cheese, jalapeños, and other ingredients such as beans, guacamole, or salsa. Originating from Piedras Negras, Mexico, in the 1940s, nachos were created by Ignacio “Nacho” Anaya. They are often served as appetizers or snacks, enjoyed globally as a versatile dish that can cater to various dietary preferences. Nutritionally, nachos are energy-dense, providing approximately 247 calories per serving, with noticeable amounts of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They also contain small amounts of minerals such as calcium and iron. However, the nutritional profile depends heavily on the toppings and portion sizes. Nachos can be modified to include ingredients with higher nutrient density, such as fresh vegetables or lean protein options, making them more balanced for consumption.
Health Benefits
- Rich in calcium (117.65 mg per serving), nachos made with cheese can support bone health and muscle function.
- Provides dietary fiber (2.35 g per serving) which can aid digestion and promote gut health.
- Contains iron (1.18 mg per serving), contributing to red blood cell production and oxygen transport.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store tortilla chips in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to maintain crispness. Refrigerate any prepared nachos with toppings in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Common Questions About Nacho Nutrition
Are nachos high in calories and protein?
A typical serving of nachos contains about 247 calories and 5.88 grams of protein. While not particularly high in protein, they are calorie-dense due to their fat content (12.94 grams per serving), making them more of a snack or treat than a protein-rich meal.
Can I eat nachos on a keto diet?
Traditional nachos are not keto-friendly due to their high carbohydrate content of 29.41 grams per serving. For a keto alternative, you can use low-carb tortilla chips and keto-friendly toppings like shredded cheese, cream, and avocados.
Are nachos healthy, or should I avoid them?
Nachos can be part of an occasional treat, but they are high in calories, carbs, fat, and sodium (352.94 mg per serving). Overeating them regularly may contribute to weight gain or increased sodium levels. To make them healthier, opt for baked chips and add vegetables like tomatoes, beans, or guacamole as toppings.
How many nachos is considered a healthy portion?
A reasonable portion size of nachos is roughly 1 ounce (or 15-20 chips) with about 1-2 tablespoons of toppings to keep calorie intake moderate. This equates to around 200-250 calories depending on the toppings used.
How do nachos compare to other snacks, like popcorn or potato chips?
Compared to plain popcorn, nachos contain significantly more fat and calories per serving. While similar to potato chips in calorie count, nachos often include additional toppings, which can increase their sodium and calorie content. Choosing air-popped popcorn or baked chips may be a lighter alternative if you're watching your 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.
