How Many Calories in a Slice of Ham?

Ham is a popular meat choice for many people, whether it is served as a sandwich filling, an accompaniment to eggs, or as a main component of a dish. While it can be a tasty and convenient option, it is important to consider the nutritional value of the food you are eating, including the number of calories it contains. In this article, we will explore how many calories are in a slice of ham, as well as the nutritional content of this meat.

First, it is important to understand that the number of calories in a slice of ham can vary depending on the type of ham and the thickness of the slice. A thin slice of ham, for example, will have fewer calories than a thick slice. Additionally, different types of ham can have varying amounts of calories. For example, a slice of cured ham will have fewer calories than a slice of uncured ham, which is often smoked or cooked with a sweet glaze.

With that being said, a general estimate for the number of calories in a slice of ham is around 25-30 calories per slice. This estimate is based on a thin slice of cured ham, which is often used in sandwiches. However, it is important to check the nutrition label or ask your deli worker for the specific calorie content of the ham you are purchasing, as this can vary.

In addition to calories, it is also important to consider the other nutrients that are present in a slice of ham. Ham is a good source of protein, with around 7 grams of protein per slice. It is also a source of several vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B1, vitamin B2, and phosphorus.

However, ham is also high in sodium, with a single slice containing around 400-500 milligrams of sodium. This is a significant portion of the recommended daily intake of sodium, which is around 2,300 milligrams. Too much sodium in the diet can lead to high blood pressure and other health problems, so it is important to consider the sodium content of ham when adding it to your diet.

In addition to the sodium content, it is also important to consider the fat content of ham. While ham does contain some healthy fats, it is also high in saturated fat. A single slice of ham can contain around 3 grams of saturated fat, which is a significant portion of the recommended daily intake of saturated fat, which is around 13 grams. Consuming too much saturated fat can increase the risk of heart disease and other health problems.

It is worth noting that while ham can be a convenient and tasty option, it is important to consider the nutritional value of this meat when adding it to your diet. While a slice of ham can be a good source of protein and certain vitamins and minerals, it is also high in sodium and saturated fat. If you are looking to include ham in your diet, it is a good idea to opt for leaner cuts and to limit your intake of sodium and saturated fat.

Overall, a slice of ham contains around 25-30 calories, with 7 grams of protein and 400-500 milligrams of sodium. While it can be a convenient and tasty option, it is important to consider the nutritional value of this meat when adding it to your diet, as it is high in sodium and saturated fat.