If you're looking for a flavorful and nutrient-dense protein source, you might want to consider pork loin. A 100 gram serving of whole, cooked, braised pork loin contains around 239 calories. Pork loin is low in fat and high in protein, making it a healthy and satisfying choice for any meal.

In addition to being a great source of protein, pork loin is also rich in several important vitamins and minerals. One serving of pork loin contains a significant amount of vitamin B6, thiamin, and niacin. It also provides essential minerals such as iron, phosphorus, and zinc.

In this article, we'll explore the nutritional value of pork loin, its health benefits, and provide some helpful tips for buying, storing, and cooking this delicious cut of meat.

Nutritional Value of Pork Loin

Pork loin is an excellent source of several important vitamins and minerals. One 100 gram serving of whole, cooked, braised pork loin contains approximately:

• 239 calories
• 25.4 grams of protein
• 14.5 grams of fat
• 376 milligrams of potassium
• 1.1 milligrams of iron
• 39 milligrams of magnesium
• 3.7 milligrams of niacin
• 0.5 milligrams of vitamin B6
• 7.8 micrograms of vitamin B12
• 0.2 milligrams of thiamin
• 0.5 milligrams of riboflavin

The high protein content in pork loin makes it an excellent choice for maintaining muscle mass and promoting satiety. Additionally, the vitamins and minerals found in pork loin have a variety of health benefits, such as aiding in digestion, supporting healthy bones, and boosting the immune system.

Calories in Pork Loin

As mentioned earlier, a 100 gram serving of whole, cooked, braised pork loin contains approximately 239 calories. This makes it a relatively low-calorie protein source, especially when compared to other cuts of meat. To enjoy pork loin without consuming too many calories, it's important to practice portion control and ensure that you're not adding high-calorie sauces or toppings to your dish.

Macronutrients in Pork Loin

Pork loin is an excellent source of several macronutrients, including protein, fat, and carbohydrates. One serving of pork loin contains around 25 grams of protein, which makes it an ideal choice for anyone looking to build or maintain muscle mass. It's also low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for those following a low carb or ketogenic diet. Finally, while pork loin does contain some fat, most of the fat in pork loin is unsaturated and considered healthy for the heart. Additionally, pork loin is relatively low in saturated fat, which is linked to an increased risk of heart disease.

Vitamins in Pork Loin

Pork loin is also a rich source of several important vitamins, including vitamin B6, thiamin, and niacin. Vitamin B6 is essential for the production of red blood cells and neurotransmitters, while thiamin plays a key role in energy metabolism. Niacin, on the other hand, is important for maintaining healthy skin, nerves, and digestion.

Minerals in Pork Loin

In addition to being high in protein and vitamins, pork loin is also a great source of essential minerals such as iron, phosphorus, and zinc. Iron is necessary for the production of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen throughout the body. Phosphorus is important for healthy bones and teeth, while zinc helps support healthy immune function and wound healing.

Health Benefits of Pork Loin

Pork loin offers numerous health benefits, thanks to its impressive nutrient profile. Some of the key health benefits of pork loin include:

• Supporting muscle growth and maintenance
• Boosting immune function and aiding in wound healing
• Promoting healthy digestion and metabolism
• Supporting healthy bones and teeth
• Reducing the risk of anemia and iron deficiency

To maximize the health benefits of pork loin, it's important to choose high-quality, lean cuts and prepare them in healthy ways, such as grilling, roasting, or baking.

Pork Loin Recipes

Looking for some delicious and healthy pork loin recipes? Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Balsamic-Glazed Pork Loin
• Asian-Style Pork Loin Stir Fry
• Herb-Roasted Pork Loin
• Cajun Pork Loin with Sweet Potato
• Slow-Cooker Pork Loin with Apples and Onions

These recipes are all easy to prepare and pack a nutritious punch, making them ideal for anyone looking to add more pork loin to their diet.

Pork Loin Meal Ideas

If you're looking to incorporate pork loin into your meals, here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Grilled pork loin with roasted vegetables
• Pork loin stir fry with brown rice
• Herb-roasted pork loin with roasted sweet potatoes
• Pork loin tacos with avocado and salsa
• Slow-cooker pork loin with mashed potatoes and green beans

These meal ideas are all delicious and easy to prepare, making them a great option for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

Buying and Storing Pork Loin

When buying pork loin, it's important to choose high-quality, lean cuts. Look for meat that is pink and firm to the touch, with a small amount of fat on the outside. Avoid pork loin that appears slimy, discolored, or has a foul odor. To store pork loin, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator. It's best to use pork loin within 3-4 days of purchase, or freeze it for up to six months.

Cooking Pork Loin

Pork loin is a versatile cut of meat that can be prepared in a variety of ways. To bake pork loin, season it with your favorite spices and roast it in the oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for around 25 minutes per pound of meat. To grill pork loin, brush it with olive oil and grill it over medium heat for around 8-10 minutes per side. And for a fuss-free option, simply toss your pork loin in the slow cooker with your favorite seasonings and cook it on low for around 6-8 hours. No matter how you prepare it, pork loin is sure to be a crowd-pleaser that's as nutritious as it is delicious.