Steak tacos are a popular and delicious choice, and they can be prepared in a ton of different ways. But what are you really eating when you eat a steak taco?
Knowing the nutritional content of your food is important, so this article will break down the nutrition facts of steak tacos.
Breaking down the macronutrients
Let’s take a look at the protein, carbs, and fats in steak tacos.
Protein
Protein is key for building muscle and feeling full. Three steak tacos from Chipotle contain 33 grams of protein, or 59% of the daily value.
Carbohydrates
The carbs in steak tacos come from both the tortilla (complex carbs) and the toppings, which may contain simple sugars.
Three steak tacos from Chipotle will give you 44 grams of carbs, including 3 grams of fiber and 1 gram of sugar.
Fat
It’s important to distinguish between the various types of fats, including saturated, unsaturated, and trans fats. Saturated and trans fats are generally considered less healthy than unsaturated fats.
Again using Chipotle as an example, three steak tacos contain 10 grams of fat, 2 grams of which are saturated fat, and zero trans fats.
Micronutrients and other nutritional components
Vitamins and minerals
Vitamins and minerals play a vital role in overall health. While the USDA doesn’t offer a complete nutritional profile for steak tacos, they typically contain vitamins and minerals like iron (from the steak), as well as Vitamin A and Vitamin C if you’re adding toppings like lettuce, onions, tomatoes, or salsa.
Sodium content
Sodium is important for fluid balance, but too much sodium can raise blood pressure. For example, 3 Chipotle steak tacos contain 365mg of sodium.
Cholesterol content
Your body needs cholesterol to build healthy cells, but high cholesterol can increase your risk of heart disease. Three steak tacos from Chipotle contain 65mg of cholesterol.
Calorie Count and Serving Size Considerations
If you’re trying to manage your weight, you already know how important it is to be aware of calorie counts. The number of calories you eat compared to the number you burn determines whether you lose, gain, or maintain weight.
So, how many calories are in steak tacos? That depends. According to Chipotle’s website, three steak tacos contain around 400 calories.
But remember, serving sizes matter. And that number can change depending on what you put on your tacos. So, if you’re watching your waistline, pay attention to portion sizes and toppings.
In Closing
Steak tacos can be a tasty and satisfying meal, but it’s important to consider their macronutrient, micronutrient, and calorie content.
Knowing the nutritional facts can help you make informed choices that align with your personal dietary needs and goals.
With a little planning, you can enjoy steak tacos as part of a healthy, balanced eating plan.