A piping hot bowl of New England clam chowder is a comfort food classic that's hard to resist. Made with chunks of tender clams and hearty potatoes, this soup is a great way to warm up on a cold day. And with just 149 calories per cup, it's a satisfying meal that won't break your calorie bank.

But what about the other nutritional information? Let's take a closer look at the benefits of milk in clam chowder, as well as the fat, cholesterol, carbohydrate, and fiber content, and more.

Whether you're trying to watch your weight or just looking for a delicious soup to enjoy, read on for useful information that will help you make the most of your next bowl of New England clam chowder.

Calories in New England Clam Chowder

As mentioned earlier, one cup of New England clam chowder made with milk contains 149 calories. However, it's worth noting that the calorie count can vary depending on the recipe and ingredients used. For example, if the chowder is made with heavy cream instead of milk, the calorie count will be much higher.

Benefits of Milk in Clam Chowder

Milk is a common ingredient in clam chowder recipes, and it offers several benefits. First and foremost, it adds a rich and creamy texture to the soup that's hard to resist. Additionally, milk is a good source of calcium and vitamin D, which are important nutrients that support healthy bone growth and development. However, it's worth noting that milk is also a source of fat and cholesterol, so it's important to consume it in moderation.

Fat and Cholesterol Content

One cup of New England clam chowder made with milk contains around 6.7 grams of fat and 31 milligrams of cholesterol. While this isn't overly concerning, it's worth noting that the fat and cholesterol content can increase significantly if the chowder is made with heavy cream instead of milk.

Carbohydrate and Protein Content

One cup of New England clam chowder made with milk contains around 16.2 grams of carbohydrates and 8.6 grams of protein. These nutrients are important for energy and muscle growth, respectively.

Fiber and Sugar Content

One cup of New England clam chowder made with milk contains around 1.5 grams of fiber and 2.2 grams of sugar. While the fiber content is relatively low, the sugar content is reasonable for a savory dish.

Sodium Content in Clam Chowder

One cup of New England clam chowder made with milk contains around 650 milligrams of sodium. This is a reasonable amount for a savory dish, but it's important to be mindful of your sodium intake if you're trying to reduce your blood pressure or manage a medical condition that's exacerbated by salt.

Vitamins and Minerals in Clam Chowder

In addition to calcium and vitamin D, milk is a good source of several other important nutrients, including vitamin A and potassium. Clams are also a good source of vitamin B12, iron, and selenium. These nutrients are important for overall health and wellbeing, and can help support the immune system, prevent anemia, and reduce the risk of chronic disease.

Serving Size Info

One cup of New England clam chowder made with milk is a typical serving size. However, if you're enjoying the chowder as part of a larger meal or as a side dish, you may want to reduce your portion size accordingly.

Traditional Vs Low-Calorie Versions

Traditional New England clam chowder can be high in calories, fat, and cholesterol, if made with heavy cream or lots of butter. However, there are plenty of low-calorie and healthier versions of the recipe available that use skim milk, low-fat milk, or coconut milk instead of cream. If you're watching your weight or trying to make healthier choices, consider seeking out one of these alternative recipes to indulge in your favorite soup guilt-free.

Suitable Diet Plans for Clam Chowder

New England clam chowder can be included in a balanced and healthy diet in moderation. It's a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, and can be enjoyed with a variety of sides and accompaniments to round out a meal. However, if you're following a specific diet plan, such as a low-sodium or low-fat diet, you may need to modify the recipe or choose a different dish altogether.