One cup of General Tso's Chicken is equivalent to 227 g, containing about 310 calories. This popular Chinese-American cuisine can be a tempting choice when you feel craving for something savory and spicy. However, if you are health-conscious, it is essential to know its nutritional value and the impact it can have on your overall health.

In this article, we will explore the calorie, macronutrient, sodium, fat, protein, fiber, carbohydrate, vitamin, and mineral content in General Tso's Chicken. We will also look into the health effects of consuming this dish and suggest some healthy alternatives.

With this information, you can make informed decisions about including this dish in your diet and gain a better insight into its nutrition profile.

Calories in General Tso's Chicken

As mentioned earlier, 1 cup (227 g) of General Tso's Chicken contains 310 calories. If you are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight, it is necessary to keep a check on your daily calorie intake. A high-calorie diet can lead to weight gain and other related health problems. You can balance out the calorie intake by consuming low-calorie foods and increasing physical activity.

Macronutrient Breakdown

Macronutrients are essential nutrients that our body needs in large amounts to function properly. 1 cup (227 g) of General Tso's Chicken is rich in protein and carbohydrates and contains a moderate amount of fat. It provides about 27 grams of protein, 19 grams of carbohydrates, and 12 grams of fat. It is also a source of iron, calcium, and vitamin A.

Sodium Content

General Tso's Chicken contains a high amount of sodium, making it a not-so-healthy option for people with high blood pressure, heart problems, or kidney disease. The recommended daily intake of sodium is about 2,300 milligrams for most adults, but General Tso's Chicken contains just over 1,200 milligrams per cup. If you are concerned about your sodium intake, it is best to skip this dish or consume it in moderation.

Fat and Cholesterol

General Tso's Chicken contains a moderate amount of fat, which contributes to its calorie count. One cup (227 g) of General Tso's Chicken provides about 12 grams of fat, including 2.7 grams of saturated fat. Saturated fat is a type of fat that can have adverse effects on heart health if consumed in large amounts. It is also a source of cholesterol, providing about 98 milligrams per cup. People with high cholesterol levels or a history of heart disease should consume this dish in moderation.

Protein Content

General Tso's Chicken is a good source of protein and can provide a decent amount of amino acids that are vital for muscle building and repair. One cup (227 g) of General Tso's Chicken provides about 27 grams of protein, which is about 54% of the daily value.

Fiber Content

General Tso's Chicken is not a good source of fiber as it is primarily made up of protein, carbohydrates, and fat. A diet high in fiber can aid digestion, regulate blood sugar levels, and keep you feeling full for longer. You can increase your fiber intake by consuming fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.

Carbohydrate Content

General Tso's Chicken contains a moderate amount of carbohydrates, mainly from the breading and sauce. One cup (227 g) of General Tso's Chicken provides about 19 grams of carbohydrates. If you are on a low-carbohydrate diet, it is best to avoid this dish or consume it in moderation.

Vitamin and Mineral Content

General Tso's Chicken provides some vitamins and minerals, but in limited amounts. One cup (227 g) of General Tso's Chicken provides about 8% of the daily value for vitamin A and 3% for calcium and iron. However, it is not a significant source of vitamins or minerals and should not be relied upon as a sole source of nutrition.

Health Effects of General Tso's Chicken

General Tso's Chicken can have some adverse health effects due to its high-calorie, high-sodium, and high-fat content. Regular consumption can lead to weight gain, high blood pressure, and increased risk of heart disease and diabetes. If you are going to include this dish in your diet, it is essential to consume it in moderation and balance it out with low-calorie, nutrient-dense foods.

Healthy Alternatives to General Tso's Chicken

If you are looking for healthy alternatives to General Tso's Chicken, here are some options:

• Stir-fried vegetables with lean protein such as chicken, tofu or shrimp
• Steamed fish with a side of brown rice and vegetables
• Broiled chicken breast with sweet potato and salad
• Stir-fried lean beef with broccoli and brown rice

These dishes are lower in calories, sodium, and fat and provide a good balance of macronutrients and micronutrients.