Calories in Cabbage: Full Nutrition Breakdown

Cabbage is an extremely low-calorie cruciferous vegetable that delivers impressive amounts of vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber. It belongs to the same family as broccoli and kale, sharing many of their cancer-fighting compounds like sulforaphane and indole-3-carbinol. Here is a complete breakdown of cabbage nutrition by serving size.

Calories by serving size:

Cabbage is also a good source of folate, manganese, and potassium. Its high water content and low calorie density make it one of the best vegetables for adding volume to meals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How many calories are in a cup of cabbage?

A cup of shredded raw cabbage weighing about 89 grams contains only 22 calories. Cooked cabbage has slightly more per cup at about 33 calories for 150 grams, since the cabbage wilts down and more fits into the measuring cup.

Is cabbage good for weight loss?

Cabbage is one of the best foods for weight loss due to its extremely low calorie density. At just 22 calories per cup raw, you can eat large portions while keeping your calorie intake minimal. Its fiber and water content also help promote fullness and reduce overall food consumption.

What is the nutritional difference between green and red cabbage?

Red cabbage generally contains more nutrients than green cabbage. It has roughly six to eight times more vitamin C and significantly more anthocyanins, which are powerful antioxidants that give it the purple-red color. Both varieties are low in calories and high in fiber, but red cabbage offers a slight nutritional edge.

Is cooked cabbage less nutritious than raw cabbage?

Cooking cabbage can reduce some heat-sensitive vitamins like vitamin C, but it also makes certain nutrients more bioavailable and easier to digest. Lightly steaming or sauteing cabbage preserves the most nutrients while softening the tough cell walls. Both raw and cooked cabbage are excellent nutritional choices.

Does cabbage have any anti-inflammatory benefits?

Yes, cabbage contains several anti-inflammatory compounds, including anthocyanins (especially in red cabbage) and sulforaphane. These phytonutrients have been studied for their ability to reduce chronic inflammation, which is linked to heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. Regular consumption of cruciferous vegetables like cabbage is associated with lower inflammatory markers in the body.