Sheep brain is a traditional and popular food in Iranian culture, often consumed in hearty meals. This food, with moderate calories and rich in protein and key nutrients, is an interesting option for people looking for energy and nutritional sources. Below, we will take a detailed look at the calories in sheep brain per 100 grams and its nutritional value table so that you can make a more informed choice in your diet.
Nutritional value table for sheep brain (macronutrients per 100 grams raw)
| Nutrient | Approximate value | Percentage of daily requirement (approximate) |
|---|---|---|
| Sheep brain calories | 122 kcal | 6% |
| Protein | 10.4 grams | 21% |
| Total fat | 8.6 grams | 13% |
| Carbohydrates | 0 grams | 0% |
Table of sugar, fiber, salt and cholesterol (per 100 grams raw)
| Nutrient | Approximate value |
|---|---|
| Sugar | 0 grams |
| Fiber | 0 grams |
| Sodium | 120-150 mg |
| Cholesterol | About 1350-2040 mg |
Table of important vitamins and minerals (per 100 grams raw)
| Nutrient | Approximate value | Percentage of daily requirement (approximate) |
|---|---|---|
| Vitamin B12 | Very high (several times the daily requirement) | More than 300% |
| Phosphorus | 300-350 mg | 40-50% |
| Iron | متوسط | 10-15% |
| Potassium | 250-350 mg | 8-10% |
| Selenium | About 20-22 micrograms | 30-40% |
| Riboflavin (B2) | متوسط | 20-30% |
Sheep brain calorie table in common consumption units
| Consumption unit | Approximate weight | Approximate sheep brain calories |
|---|---|---|
| 100 grams (raw) | 100 grams | 122 |
| One medium sheep brain (raw) | About 200-300 grams | 240-360 |
| 100 grams (boiled or lightly roasted) | 100 grams | 140-150 |
| 100 grams (fried) | 100 grams | About 250-270 |
Calorie comparison of raw and cooked sheep brains
| Consumption mode | Calories in sheep brain per 100 grams | Description |
|---|---|---|
| raw | 122 | The main basis of nutritional value |
| Boiled or lightly fried | 140-150 | No added oil, calories close to raw |
| Fried in a pan | 250-270 | Increased calories due to oil absorption |
Nutritional benefits and uses of sheep brain
- With high-quality protein and natural fats, sheep brain is a good source of sustained energy and can be useful in high-energy diet plans.
- The protein in it helps maintain and build muscle and is a good option for athletes after heavy workouts.
- Its abundant vitamin B12 plays an important role in producing cellular energy and reducing fatigue, and is beneficial for people who experience a deficiency of this vitamin.
- The phosphorus and selenium in sheep brain help with bone health and the body's antioxidant function.
- In weight loss diets, due to its moderate calories (122 per 100 grams of raw food) and high protein, it can provide a feeling of satiety in controlled amounts, but its high cholesterol makes it unsuitable for daily consumption.
- Compared to regular red meat (like lean lamb around 140-200 calories), lamb brain has zero carbs and is more fat and protein based.
- People looking to increase daily energy without high carbohydrates can use it in moderation.
Moderate consumption (once or twice a month) can be part of a varied diet without disrupting the overall balance.
Is consuming too much sheep brain problematic?
Sheep brain is very high in cholesterol (several times the daily requirement in a small serving). Excessive and regular consumption of it can increase cholesterol intake, which is best limited for cardiovascular health. Also, the saturated fat it contains, if consumed in large quantities, may affect blood lipid balance. The best approach is to consume it occasionally and in small amounts (for example, 50-100 grams per serving) along with vegetables and physical activity so that the body can benefit from its nutrients without additional stress.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sheep Brain Calories
How many calories are in sheep's brain?
100 grams of raw spinach contains about 122 kcal, and 140-150 kcal when boiled or lightly roasted.
Is sheep brain suitable for a weight loss diet?
Due to its moderate calories and high protein, it can be useful in low-carb diets, but its very high cholesterol limits daily consumption; it is best consumed occasionally and in a controlled manner.
What is the best way to consume sheep brains to control calories?
Boil or steam without adding oil, with plenty of vegetables; avoid deep frying to avoid extra calories.
What is the difference in the calories of sheep brain in different cooking methods?
Raw 122 calories, boiled about 140-150 calories, and fried up to 250-270 calories per 100 grams; the oil-free cooking method keeps calories close to the base.
Final summary
With about 122 calories per 100 grams of raw lamb brain, it is a rich source of protein, vitamin B12 and minerals and can be part of a varied diet. It is an energy-giving and nutritious food, but due to its high cholesterol content, it is best consumed in limited quantities and occasionally. Choosing a low-fat cooking method and combining it with vegetables will help you reap its nutritional benefits and maintain a daily calorie balance. Making informed decisions based on your personal needs and lifestyle is the key to making the most of this traditional food.
Don't forget that you can also use food calories to find out the calories in other ingredients.
Nutritional data source: FoodData Central – USDA
