Calories in Carrots: Full Nutrition Breakdown
How many calories are in a carrot? Size-by-size breakdown with full nutrition facts and FAQ.
Carrots are one of the most popular root vegetables worldwide, known for their bright orange color and natural sweetness. They are an exceptional source of beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A — essential for vision, immune function, and skin health. Carrots are also low in calories and provide a satisfying crunch. Here is a complete breakdown of carrot nutrition by size.
Calories by size:
| Size | Weight | Calories | Carbs | Fiber | Sugar | Vitamin A |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small | ~50 g | 20 kcal | 5 g | 1.4 g | 2.4 g | 5,053 IU |
| Medium | ~61 g | 25 kcal | 6 g | 1.7 g | 2.9 g | 6,165 IU |
| Large | ~72 g | 30 kcal | 7 g | 2 g | 3.4 g | 7,277 IU |
| 1 cup chopped | ~128 g | 52 kcal | 12 g | 3.6 g | 6.1 g | 12,922 IU |
| Baby carrots (10) | ~100 g | 35 kcal | 8 g | 2.8 g | 4.7 g | 10,191 IU |
Carrots are also a good source of vitamin K, potassium, and biotin. Their high beta-carotene content gives them powerful antioxidant properties that support overall health.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many calories are in a medium carrot?
A medium carrot weighing about 61 grams contains approximately 25 calories. Most of the calories come from carbohydrates — about 6 grams total, including 2.9 grams of natural sugars and 1.7 grams of dietary fiber.
Are carrots good for your eyes?
Yes, carrots are excellent for eye health. They are one of the richest food sources of beta-carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A. A single medium carrot provides over 100% of the daily recommended vitamin A intake. Vitamin A is essential for maintaining healthy vision, particularly night vision.
Are carrots high in sugar?
Carrots contain more natural sugar than many other vegetables, with about 2.9 grams per medium carrot. However, they are still very low in total calories and have a moderate glycemic index of around 39 when raw. The fiber in carrots slows sugar absorption, preventing blood sugar spikes.
Do carrots lose nutrients when cooked?
Cooking carrots actually increases the bioavailability of beta-carotene by breaking down the tough cell walls. Studies show that cooked carrots provide more absorbable beta-carotene than raw ones. However, boiling can cause some water-soluble vitamins like vitamin C to leach out, so steaming or roasting is preferred.
How many calories are in baby carrots?
Ten baby carrots (about 100 grams) contain approximately 35 calories. Baby carrots are simply regular carrots that have been peeled and cut into smaller pieces, so they have the same nutritional profile per gram. They make a convenient, low-calorie snack.
How many calories are in a medium carrot?
Are carrots good for your eyes?
Are carrots high in sugar?
Do carrots lose nutrients when cooked?
How many calories are in baby carrots?
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