Calories in Cantaloupe: Full Nutrition Breakdown

Cantaloupe is a sweet, orange-fleshed melon that stands out for its exceptionally high vitamin A and vitamin C content. At only 34 calories per 100 grams, it is one of the most nutrient-dense, low-calorie fruits available. Its high water content (about 90%) makes it incredibly hydrating.

Calories by serving size:

Cantaloupe's deep orange color signals its rich beta-carotene content. The body converts beta-carotene to vitamin A, which is essential for eye health, immune function, and skin integrity. One cup of cantaloupe provides more vitamin A than a full day requires.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How many calories are in a cup of cantaloupe?

One cup of cubed cantaloupe (about 160 grams) contains approximately 54 calories. It provides 13 grams of carbohydrates, 13 grams of natural sugar, and 1.4 grams of fiber. This serving also delivers 106% of your daily vitamin A and about 65% of your daily vitamin C.

Is cantaloupe good for weight loss?

Cantaloupe is excellent for weight loss. It has one of the lowest calorie densities of any fruit at just 34 calories per 100 grams. Its 90% water content fills you up while keeping calories minimal. A large two-cup serving of cantaloupe is only 108 calories — fewer than a single banana — making it ideal for high-volume, low-calorie eating.

What vitamins are in cantaloupe?

Cantaloupe is exceptionally rich in vitamin A (as beta-carotene) and vitamin C. One cup provides 106% DV of vitamin A and 65% DV of vitamin C. It also supplies potassium (about 9% DV per cup), folate, niacin, and vitamin B6. The combination of vitamins A and C makes cantaloupe particularly beneficial for immune health and skin.

How should you pick a ripe cantaloupe?

A ripe cantaloupe should feel heavy for its size, have a sweet aroma at the stem end, and yield slightly when pressed at the blossom end. The skin should have a creamy, yellowish color beneath the netting — green tints indicate it was picked too early. A ripe cantaloupe will also have a smooth, slightly indented stem end where it naturally detached from the vine.

Is cantaloupe high in sugar?

Cantaloupe has about 8 grams of sugar per 100 grams, which is moderate for a fruit. However, because cantaloupe is 90% water, the sugar is diluted across a large volume. Its glycemic load per cup is only about 4 (low), meaning it has minimal impact on blood sugar despite its sweet taste.