Pizza Calories and Nutrition Facts

Given its delicious taste, variety, and convenience, it's no wonder pizza is one of the most favored foods globally. Traditional pizza is made with dough, tomato sauce, and cheese, although there are many variations. Despite what you may have been told, this entree has its place in a balanced meal plan.

Each variety of pizza will differ in its macronutrient and calorie content, depending on the type and method of preparation. Toppings and crust can be catered to fit your specific needs and preferences.

Pizza Nutrition Facts

The following pizza nutrition information is provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for one slice (107g) of regular cheese pizza from a standard fast-food pizza chain.

Carbs

According to the pizza nutrition facts above, one slice contains around 35.6 grams of carbs.

Fats

The fats in pizza are mainly from cheese, typically cheddar and mozzarella—both of which can contain high amounts of saturated fat and salt.

It's recommended that less than 10% of your daily calorie intake should comprise saturated fat. Instead, focus your fat intake around unsaturated fats, such as omega-3 and omega-6 in foods like nuts, olives, fish, eggs, tofu, and flaxseed.

Protein

The average slice of pizza contains around 12 grams of protein. Your daily protein intake will vary depending on gender, height, activity, and calorie requirements. Protein consumption is essential for muscle maintenance, growth, and making connective tissues, among other functions.

Calculate your protein intake needs with this tool to determine the percentage a slice of pizza attributes to your daily requirements.

Vitamins and Minerals

Pizza contains trace levels of vitamins and minerals including calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, and zinc, all of which contribute to a healthy diet. The majority of your nutrients should come from whole foods.

Calories

Pizza calories and nutrition vary based on the types of cheese used, added toppings, method of cooking, crust density, and size of the pizza slice. For example, a small slice (around 1/8th) of a generic cheese pizza contains about 200 calories, a typical slice of cheese pizza from a chain like Pizza Hut can amount to 300 calories for 1/5th of the pie.

Can Pizza Be Healthy?

Choosing veggie toppings such as peppers, mushrooms, spinach, and broccoli can boost your daily fiber and antioxidant intake. High consumption of vegetables and fruits is said to lower mortality.

Whole Wheat Crust Adds Dietary Fiber

Replacing regular pizza dough with a whole wheat crust will boost your dietary fiber intake, which can lower cholesterol, promote regular bowel movements, and play a role in managing your weight.

Protein in Pizza

Pizza contains protein mainly from its cheese, alongside any chicken, meat, or fish toppings. Protein is beneficial for maintaining lean muscle mass and optimal growth, though not all sources are equal.

Pizza Contains Calcium

Given its dairy content, pizza provides a source of calcium—essential for the body to build and maintain bone strength. One slice of pizza contains 188 milligrams of calcium; adults ages 19-50 require around 1,000 milligrams of calcium daily.

Pizza for Vegans & Gluten-Free Diets

Gluten-free and vegan pizza varieties have become mainstream. The reinvention of your typical pizza means individuals with these dietary requirements can enjoy a slice.

Allergies

Traditional pizza contains both gluten and dairy. But as mentioned above, gluten-free and vegan pizzas are becoming more popular. To avoid allergens, review menus to see which options fit your dietary restrictions.

Adverse Affects

Balance is key to maintaining a healthy lifestyle and long-term success. Incorporate pizza filled with plenty of whole fruits, vegetables, proteins, and grains.

When Pizza Is Best

Although many would argue that pizza fresh from the oven tastes the best, others prefer munching on cold leftovers. Whatever you decide, make sure that any store-bought pizza is within its expiration date (this goes for refrigerating and freezing), and that when re-heating, cheese is piping hot (above 165°F) to avoid any growth of potentially harmful bacteria. Avoid reheating more than once.

Storage and Food Safety

While television may suggest keeping pizza on the counter is the best storage method, some food safety tips are important.

Keep store-bought pizza refrigerated and take note of its expiration date. If ordering fresh from a restaurant, cover the pizza with the box's lid until you eat it to maintain the heat. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat the following day. Discard any uneaten pizza after two days.

How to Prepare Pizza

Making pizza at home can be a fun activity for you and your family. It is also a great way to add pizza nutrition boosters and experiment with various ingredients. Try different types of flour, such as whole grain flour, or adding veggies to your pizza.

You can use any cheese, make your own sauce, or experiment with other homemade sauces. Take this as an opportunity to get creative in the kitchen!