If you're looking to indulge in some pork chops, it's important to be mindful of your calorie intake. A single pound of center rib, bone-in, lean only, cooked, and braised pork chops contains approximately 934 calories. That being said, pork chops do offer some nutritional benefits, so let's take a closer look!
In addition to the high calorie count, 1 lb of pork chops also contains 109g of protein, 753 calories from fat, 0g of carbohydrates, 83g of fat, 4013mg of sodium, and 373mg of cholesterol. However, pork chops are also a good source of vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B6, vitamin B12, iron, and zinc.
In this article, we'll explore the nutritional facts and health benefits of 1 lb pork chops to help you make an informed decision about adding them to your diet.
Calories in 1 lb Pork Chops
As mentioned earlier, a single pound of center rib, bone-in, lean only, cooked, and braised pork chops contains approximately 934 calories. This means that if you're watching your calorie intake, it's important to keep portion sizes in mind when enjoying this delicious cut of meat.
Protein Content in 1 lb Pork Chops
Unlike many other meats, pork chops are an excellent source of protein. A single pound of center rib, bone-in, lean only, cooked, and braised pork chops contains approximately 109g of protein. This makes them an ideal meat choice if you're looking to increase your protein intake.
Calories from Fat in 1 lb Pork Chops
While pork chops are a good source of protein, they also contain a high amount of fat. In fact, a single pound of center rib, bone-in, lean only, cooked, and braised pork chops contains approximately 753 calories from fat. That being said, it's important to remember that not all fats are created equal. Pork chops contain both saturated and unsaturated fats, with approximately 25g of monounsaturated fat and 41g of saturated fat per pound.
Carbohydrate Content in 1 lb Pork Chops
If you're following a low-carb diet, you'll be happy to know that pork chops contain 0g of carbohydrates per pound.
Fat Content in 1 lb Pork Chops
In addition to the calories from fat, a single pound of center rib, bone-in, lean only, cooked, and braised pork chops contains approximately 83g of fat. While this may seem like a lot, as mentioned earlier, not all fats are created equal. Pork chops are a good source of healthy monounsaturated fats, which have been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease.
Sodium Content in 1 lb Pork Chops
If you're watching your sodium intake, you'll want to be mindful of the fact that a single pound of center rib, bone-in, lean only, cooked, and braised pork chops contains approximately 4013mg of sodium. This is around twice the recommended daily intake of sodium for the average adult, so it's important to keep portion sizes in mind when enjoying this tasty meat.
Cholesterol Content in 1 lb Pork Chops
As previously mentioned, pork chops contain a high amount of cholesterol, with approximately 373mg of cholesterol per pound. While this may be a concern for some individuals, it's important to note that dietary cholesterol only has a small impact on overall cholesterol levels for most people. If you're worried about your cholesterol intake, speak to a healthcare professional for advice on how to manage your diet.
Vitamin Content in 1 lb Pork Chops
Despite the high calorie count, pork chops do offer some nutritional benefits. A single pound of center rib, bone-in, lean only, cooked, and braised pork chops contains approximately 72% of your daily recommended intake of vitamin B6 and approximately 130% of your daily recommended intake of vitamin B12. These vitamins are important for maintaining healthy nervous and cardiovascular systems.
Mineral Content in 1 lb Pork Chops
In addition to vitamins, pork chops also contain important minerals such as iron and zinc. A single pound of center rib, bone-in, lean only, cooked, and braised pork chops contains approximately 36% of your daily recommended intake of iron and approximately 68% of your daily recommended intake of zinc.
Health Benefits of 1 lb Pork Chops
Despite the high calorie count and fat content, pork chops can still offer some health benefits when consumed in moderation. As previously mentioned, pork chops are a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, all of which are important for overall health and wellness. Additionally, the monounsaturated fats found in pork chops may help to reduce your risk of heart disease when consumed as part of a balanced diet.
While pork chops may be high in calories and fat, they can still be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation. Plus, they offer a range of important vitamins and minerals that are essential for overall health and wellness.
5 FAQ About 1 Lb Pork Chops (Center Rib, Bone-In, Lean Only, Cooked, Braised)
1. How many servings are in 1 lb of pork chops?
One lb of pork chops can provide two to three servings, depending on the size of the chops and the appetite of the individuals being served.
2. Is braised pork chops healthy?
Braising is a healthier cooking method for pork chops than frying, but it does add some fat and calories. However, center rib, bone-in, lean-only pork chops like the ones noted in this nutritional information are a good source of protein and other nutrients like niacin and vitamin B6.
3. How should I season my pork chops?
There are many ways to season pork chops, but some popular options include using a dry rub or marinating the meat in a mixture of herbs, spices, and other ingredients. Some common seasonings for pork chops include garlic, rosemary, thyme, paprika, onion powder, and black pepper.
4. Can I freeze cooked pork chops?
Yes, you can freeze cooked pork chops. To do so, let them cool to room temperature and then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. They will keep in the freezer for up to three months.
5. What are some side dishes that go well with pork chops?
Some classic side dishes that pair well with pork chops include roasted or steamed vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or green beans, a simple garden salad, mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes, and a slice of crusty bread.