Calories in Pho
Pho is a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup consisting of a savory broth, rice noodles, fresh herbs, and meat, typically beef or chicken. It is a well-balanced meal that is relatively low in fat but can be very high in sodium due to the seasoned broth.
Common Variations
| Variation | Serving | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 100 g | 100 g | 72 | 7.1g | 6.9g | 1.6g |
| 1 serving (244 g) | 1 serving (244 g) | 176 | 17.4g | 16.8g | 3.9g |
| 1 oz (28g) | 1 oz (28g) | 20 | 2g | 2g | 0.5g |
| 100 ml (102g) | 100 ml (102g) | 73 | 7.3g | 7g | 1.6g |
Health Benefits
High in protein which supports muscle repair and satiety.
Naturally gluten-free as it uses rice noodles, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
The ginger and herbs used in the broth have anti-inflammatory properties and can aid digestion.
Nutrition Tips
- Add extra bean sprouts and fresh herbs to increase the fiber and micronutrient content of your meal.
- Be mindful of added sauces like Hoisin or Sriracha, as they can significantly increase sugar and sodium intake.
- Opt for lean cuts of beef or chicken breast to keep the saturated fat content low.
- If you are watching your sodium intake, try not to finish all the broth, as that is where most of the salt resides.
- Drink plenty of water after eating Pho to help your body process the high sodium content.
GAYA Tracking Tip
For the most accurate tracking, take a photo of the bowl from directly above. GAYA can better estimate the ratio of noodles to meat and broth volume from this angle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Pho good for weight loss?+
Pho can be a great weight-loss food because it is high in volume and protein while being relatively low in calories. Just be careful with the portion size of noodles and high-sugar sauces.
Why is Pho so high in sodium?+
The broth is typically simmered for hours with fish sauce, salt, and spices to create its deep flavor, which results in high sodium levels. One bowl can contain over 60% of your daily recommended salt intake.
Which is healthier: Beef or Chicken Pho?+
Chicken Pho (Pho Ga) is generally leaner and lower in calories and saturated fat than Beef Pho (Pho Bo). However, both provide excellent protein sources.
Related Foods
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