A 100-gram serving of beef tenderloin (lean only, trimmed to 1/8' fat, choice grade) contains approximately 158 calories. If you're looking to enjoy a hearty and nutritious protein source, beef tenderloin is certainly a great option to consider.
In addition to its protein content, beef tenderloin is also rich in various essential nutrients. Let's take a closer look at its nutritional information to better understand its value for a healthy diet.
When preparing beef tenderloin, you can use various cooking methods such as grilling, broiling, or roasting. Make sure to season it with tasty and healthy ingredients such as herbs, garlic, or lemon juice to boost its flavor and nutritional value.
Calories
As mentioned earlier, a 100-gram serving of beef tenderloin contains around 158 calories. This amount may vary depending on the cooking method and additional ingredients used in the recipe. It's worth noting that not all calories are made equal when it comes to nutrition. Beef tenderloin is a great source of high-quality protein, iron, and various other nutrients that can support a healthy body composition and metabolism. If you're looking to watch your calorie intake, be mindful of portion sizes and choose lean cuts of meat that are trimmed of excess fat.
Protein
Beef tenderloin is a fantastic source of high-quality protein, containing approximately 26 grams per 100-gram serving. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting immune function, and maintaining a healthy body weight. As a complete protein source, beef tenderloin provides all the essential amino acids that our bodies need. If you're an active individual or trying to build muscle mass, beef tenderloin can be a great addition to your diet.
Fat
A 100-gram serving of beef tenderloin (lean only, trimmed to 1/8' fat, choice grade) contains approximately 5 grams of fat. While beef tenderloin is not a completely fat-free food, it can still fit into a healthy diet. By choosing lean cuts of beef and avoiding excessive amounts of added fats in cooking, you can enjoy the nutritional benefits of beef tenderloin without consuming excessive calories from fat. Keep in mind that some fats can be beneficial for our health, such as the omega-3 fatty acids found in oily fish. Consider incorporating a variety of healthy sources of fat in your diet, such as avocados, nuts, and seeds.
Carbohydrates
Beef tenderloin is a low-carbohydrate food, making it a suitable choice for those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet. While carbohydrates are an essential nutrient, excessive consumption can lead to weight gain and other health issues. By choosing foods like beef tenderloin that are low in carbohydrates and rich in protein and healthy fats, you can support your overall health and wellbeing.
Cholesterol
Beef tenderloin contains a moderate amount of cholesterol, with around 89 milligrams per 100-gram serving. While dietary cholesterol can contribute to high blood cholesterol levels in some individuals, research suggests that the impact of cholesterol intake on heart health may vary depending on individual genetics and other lifestyle factors. Therefore, it's important to discuss your dietary choices with a qualified healthcare provider to determine the best approach for your health.
Iron
Beef tenderloin is a great source of iron, containing approximately 16% of the recommended daily intake per 100-gram serving. Iron is a crucial nutrient for transporting oxygen throughout the body, supporting immune function, and maintaining proper brain function. Insufficient iron intake can lead to iron-deficiency anemia, which is characterized by fatigue, weakness, and other symptoms. Incorporating iron-rich foods like beef tenderloin in your diet can help prevent iron deficiency and support overall health.
Zinc
Beef tenderloin is also a good source of zinc, with around 15% of the recommended daily intake per 100-gram serving. Zinc is essential for immune function, protein synthesis, wound healing, and other physiological processes. It's important to ensure adequate zinc intake, as deficiency can lead to impaired immune function, growth retardation, and other health concerns. In addition to beef tenderloin, other sources of zinc include oysters, pumpkin seeds, and chickpeas.
Vitamin B6
Beef tenderloin is a good source of vitamin B6, with around 13% of the recommended daily intake per 100-gram serving. Vitamin B6 is essential for brain function, protein metabolism, and other physiological processes. Deficiency can lead to anemia, depression, and other health issues. Incorporating vitamin B6-rich foods like beef tenderloin in your diet can help support overall health and wellbeing.
Selenium
Beef tenderloin is also a good source of selenium, with around 10% of the recommended daily intake per 100-gram serving. Selenium is an antioxidant mineral that plays a vital role in thyroid function, immune system support, and other physiological processes. Insufficient selenium intake may lead to an increased risk of cancer, cardiovascular disease, and other health concerns. Other dietary sources of selenium include seafood, Brazil nuts, and whole grains.
Potassium
Beef tenderloin contains a moderate amount of potassium, with around 8% of the recommended daily intake per 100-gram serving. Potassium is essential for maintaining proper fluid balance, regulating blood pressure, and supporting cardiovascular health. Insufficient potassium intake may lead to hypertension, stroke, and other health concerns. Incorporating potassium-rich foods like beef tenderloin in your diet can help prevent potassium deficiency and support overall health.
Beef tenderloin is a great source of high-quality protein and other essential nutrients, making it a nutritious addition to a healthy diet.
FAQs About Beef Tenderloin
1. How many calories are in a 100-gram serving of beef tenderloin?
A 100-gram serving of beef tenderloin contains 158 calories. This serving size also contains 26 grams of protein and 5.5 grams of fat.
2. What grade of beef is best for tenderloin?
Choice grade beef is considered the best for tenderloin. It has a good balance of marbling and tenderness, making it an ideal choice for cooking beef tenderloin.
3. How should beef tenderloin be cooked?
Beef tenderloin can be cooked in a variety of ways, including grilling, roasting, or pan-searing. It's important to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature reaches at least 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare doneness.
4. Is beef tenderloin a lean cut of meat?
Yes, beef tenderloin is considered a lean cut of meat. It's important to trim any visible fat before cooking to keep the calorie and fat content low.
5. How can I add flavor to beef tenderloin without adding calories?
You can add flavor to beef tenderloin without adding calories by marinating it in a mixture of herbs, spices, and vinegar or lemon juice. You can also try using low-calorie cooking methods, such as grilling or broiling, to enhance the flavor without adding extra calories.