How Many Calories Does Ham Have?

Ham is a popular meat product that is enjoyed by many people around the world. It is made from the hind leg of a pig, and can be cured, smoked, or cooked in various ways. One of the main concerns for people when it comes to eating ham is the calorie content, as it can vary depending on the type of ham and the way it is prepared. In this article, we will take a closer look at the calorie content of ham, as well as some tips for making healthier choices when it comes to this delicious meat.

First, let’s take a look at the calorie content of different types of ham. The calorie content of ham can vary depending on the cut of meat used, as well as the way it is prepared. For example, uncooked, bone-in ham contains around 150 calories per 3 ounces, while uncooked, boneless ham contains around 130 calories per 3 ounces. Cooked, bone-in ham contains around 170 calories per 3 ounces, while cooked, boneless ham contains around 140 calories per 3 ounces.

Ham is made from the hind leg of a pig, and it is typically cured and smoked before it is sold. The calorie content of ham can vary depending on the type of ham and the way it is prepared. For example, a 3-ounce serving of cooked, boneless, lean ham contains approximately 90 calories, while the same serving size of cooked, boneless, regular ham contains about 130 calories. The calorie content of deli ham can also vary, with a 2-ounce serving of cooked, sliced, deli ham containing around 70 calories.

Ham is a good source of protein, which is essential for maintaining healthy muscles and bones. A 3-ounce serving of cooked, boneless, lean ham contains about 20 grams of protein, while the same serving size of cooked, boneless, regular ham contains about 17 grams of protein. Protein is important for building and repairing the body’s tissues, and it also helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Ham is also a good source of essential vitamins and minerals, including niacin, vitamin B6, and phosphorous. These nutrients play important roles in maintaining healthy skin, nerves, and metabolism. However, ham also contains a fair amount of sodium, with a 3-ounce serving of cooked, boneless, lean ham containing about 580 milligrams of sodium and a 3-ounce serving of cooked, boneless, regular ham containing about 980 milligrams of sodium. This is why it’s important to pay attention to the amount of ham you are eating.

When it comes to including ham in a healthy diet, moderation is key. While ham can be a good source of protein and other essential nutrients, it is also high in calories and sodium. To keep your calorie intake in check, try to limit your serving size of ham to 3 ounces or less. You can also opt for leaner cuts of ham, such as cooked, boneless, lean ham, which has fewer calories and less fat than regular ham.

In addition to paying attention to serving size, it’s also a good idea to pair ham with other healthy foods. For example, try pairing a small serving of ham with a large serving of vegetables, such as a salad or steamed broccoli. This will help to balance out the calorie content of the ham and provide your body with the essential nutrients it needs.

In conclusion, ham is a popular meat that is enjoyed by many people around the world. The calorie content of ham can vary depending on the type of ham and the way it is prepared, with a 3-ounce serving of cooked, boneless, lean ham containing approximately 90 calories. While ham can be a good source of protein and other essential nutrients, it is also high in calories and sodium, so it’s important to pay attention to serving size and pair it with other healthy foods. By including ham in a healthy diet, you can enjoy the delicious taste of this versatile meat without overdoing it on calories.