Calories in Bok Choy: Full Nutrition Breakdown
How many calories are in bok choy? Serving-by-serving breakdown with full nutrition facts and FAQ.
Bok choy, also known as pak choi, is a type of Chinese cabbage widely used in Asian cuisine. It is remarkably low in calories while delivering substantial amounts of vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, and calcium. As a cruciferous vegetable, bok choy also contains glucosinolates, which are compounds studied for their potential cancer-preventive properties. Here is a complete breakdown of bok choy nutrition by serving size.
Calories by serving size:
| Serving | Weight | Calories | Carbs | Fiber | Protein | Vitamin A | Vitamin C | Calcium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 cup shredded (raw) | ~70 g | 9 kcal | 1.5 g | 0.7 g | 1.1 g | 3,128 IU | 31.5 mg | 74 mg |
| 1 cup cooked | ~170 g | 20 kcal | 3.1 g | 1.7 g | 2.7 g | 7,223 IU | 44.2 mg | 158 mg |
| 1 medium head | ~250 g | 33 kcal | 5.1 g | 2.5 g | 3.8 g | 11,175 IU | 112 mg | 265 mg |
| 100 g raw | ~100 g | 13 kcal | 2.2 g | 1.0 g | 1.5 g | 4,468 IU | 45 mg | 105 mg |
Bok choy is also a valuable source of potassium, folate, and vitamin B6. Its high water content (about 95%) makes it particularly hydrating, and its mild, slightly sweet flavor makes it versatile in stir-fries, soups, and salads.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many calories are in a cup of bok choy?
A cup of shredded raw bok choy weighing about 70 grams contains only 9 calories. Cooked bok choy has about 20 calories per cup because the leaves wilt significantly during cooking, allowing more to fit in a measuring cup. Either way, bok choy is one of the lowest-calorie vegetables available.
Is bok choy a good source of calcium?
Bok choy is one of the best plant-based sources of calcium. A cup of cooked bok choy provides about 158 mg of calcium, which is roughly 12% of the daily recommended intake. Unlike spinach, bok choy is low in oxalates, meaning its calcium is highly bioavailable and more easily absorbed by the body.
Is bok choy good for vitamin A?
Bok choy is an excellent source of vitamin A in the form of beta-carotene. A single cup of cooked bok choy provides over 7,200 IU of vitamin A, which is about 144% of the daily recommended value. This vitamin is essential for healthy vision, immune function, and skin integrity.
Can you eat bok choy raw?
Yes, bok choy can be eaten raw and is a nutritious addition to salads and slaws. Raw bok choy retains all of its vitamin C, which can be partially lost during cooking. The stems are crisp and mild, while the leaves have a slightly peppery taste similar to other cruciferous greens.
Is bok choy good for weight loss?
Bok choy is an outstanding vegetable for weight loss due to its extremely low calorie density and high water content. At only 9 calories per raw cup, you can eat generous portions without significantly affecting your calorie budget. Its fiber content, though modest, combined with its high water volume helps promote feelings of fullness.
How many calories are in a cup of bok choy?
Is bok choy a good source of calcium?
Is bok choy good for vitamin A?
Can you eat bok choy raw?
Is bok choy good for weight loss?
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