If you're a fan of French fries, you may be wondering about the nutrition facts of your favorite snack. A medium order of French fries, weighing in at 128 g, contains 390 calories.
But that's not all. French fries also contain various amounts of fat, sodium, carbohydrates, protein, fiber, sugar, and various vitamins and minerals that your body needs. Let's take a closer look at the nutritional information of 1 order (128 g) of French fries.
Are you ready to learn more about the nutritional content of French fries? Let's dig in.
Calories per 128 g serving
As mentioned earlier, 1 order (128 g) of French fries contains 390 calories. This is roughly 19% of your daily recommended caloric intake if you're on a 2,000 calorie per day diet. So, if you're watching your weight or trying to manage your calorie intake, you should be careful with how much and how often you eat French fries. The type of oil and method of cooking can also affect the calorie content. For example, French fries cooked in vegetable oil will contain fewer calories than those cooked in animal fat. However, it's not just the number of calories that counts. You should also consider other nutritional information to make sure French fries are consumed in moderation.
Total fat content
French fries are high in fat, with 17 g of total fat in 1 order (128 g). This accounts for 26% of the recommended daily intake for a 2,000 calorie per day diet. Most of this fat is unhealthy saturated and trans fat, which can raise your cholesterol levels and increase your risk of heart disease. However, French fries also contain a small amount of healthy unsaturated fat, which is beneficial for your body. If you're concerned about the amount of fat in your diet, you should limit your intake of French fries and choose healthier alternatives such as baked potatoes or sweet potato fries.
Saturated fat content
In addition to total fat content, saturated fat content is another important factor when considering the nutritional value of French fries. 1 order of French fries contains 3.5 g of saturated fat, which represents 18% of the recommended daily intake for a 2,000 calorie per day diet.
Sodium content
French fries are notorious for their high sodium content, with 270 mg of sodium in 1 order. This represents 12% of the recommended daily intake for a 2,000 calorie per day diet. A diet high in sodium can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, and other health problems. To reduce your sodium intake, you can try making your French fries at home using less salt or opting for a salt-free seasoning. Alternatively, you can choose to eat French fries less frequently or in smaller portions.
Carbohydrate content
French fries are a source of carbohydrates, with 48 g of carbohydrates in 1 order (128 g). This represents 16% of the recommended daily intake for a 2,000 calorie per day diet. Carbohydrates are an essential macronutrient that your body needs for energy. However, you should be aware that French fries contain simple carbohydrates that can cause your blood sugar to spike and crash, leading to insulin resistance and other health problems. If you have diabetes or other health conditions, you should limit your intake of French fries and choose complex carbohydrates from fruits, vegetables, and grains instead.
Protein content
French fries are not a significant source of protein, with only 3 g of protein in 1 order (128 g). This represents 6% of the recommended daily intake for a 2,000 calorie per day diet. Protein is an essential macronutrient that your body needs for muscle growth and repair, as well as other functions. If you're looking to increase your protein intake, you should choose healthier alternatives such as chicken, fish, tofu, or legumes.
Fiber content
French fries are not a significant source of fiber, with only 3 g of fiber in 1 order (128 g). This represents 12% of the recommended daily intake for a 2,000 calorie per day diet. Fiber is an essential macronutrient that your body needs for digestion, and most Americans don't consume enough of it. If you're looking to increase your fiber intake, you should choose healthier alternatives such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, or legumes.
Sugar content
French fries are not a significant source of sugar, with only 0.5 g of sugar in 1 order (128 g). This represents less than 1% of the recommended daily intake for a 2,000 calorie per day diet. However, you should be aware that most fast-food chains serve French fries with ketchup, which contains a significant amount of added sugar. If you're concerned about your sugar intake, you should limit your consumption of ketchup or choose healthier alternatives such as mustard or hot sauce.
Vitamin content
French fries are not a significant source of vitamins, with only small amounts of vitamin C and vitamin B6. Vitamin C is an essential nutrient that your body needs for immunity, skin health, and other functions, while vitamin B6 is important for brain development and function. However, you should be aware that most fast-food chains serve French fries with ketchup, which contains a significant amount of vitamin A. Vitamin A is important for vision, skin health, and other functions.
Mineral content
French fries are not a significant source of minerals, with only small amounts of potassium and iron. Potassium is important for heart health, while iron is important for blood circulation and oxygen transport. However, you should be aware that most fast-food chains serve French fries with salt, which contains sodium and chloride. Sodium and chloride are important minerals that your body needs for various functions, but they can also be harmful in excess amounts.
French fries are a tasty and convenient snack, but they're not the healthiest choice for your body. Eating too many French fries can lead to weight gain, heart disease, and other health problems. If you want to enjoy French fries in moderation, try making them at home using healthier oils and seasonings.
FAQs About McDonald's Medium French Fries (128 g)
1. How many calories are in the Medium French Fries?
There are 390 calories in one order (128 g) of McDonald's Medium French Fries.
2. What are the ingredients in McDonald's French Fries?
The ingredients in McDonald's French Fries include potatoes, vegetable oil (canola oil, corn oil, soybean oil, hydrogenated soybean oil), dextrose, sodium acid pyrophosphate (to maintain color), and salt.
3. Are McDonald's French Fries gluten-free?
McDonald's French Fries are not officially gluten-free as they are cooked in the same oil as menu items that contain wheat and dairy. However, they are made without any gluten-containing ingredients and some people with mild gluten sensitivity may be able to tolerate them.
4. How much saturated fat is in McDonald's Medium French Fries?
One order (128 g) of McDonald's Medium French Fries contains 3.5 g of saturated fat, which is 18% of the daily value based on a 2,000-calorie diet.
5. Can I reheat McDonald's French Fries?
While it is not recommended as they tend to become soggy, you can reheat McDonald's French Fries by placing them in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 5-10 minutes or until crispy.