Sushi Nutrition Facts

In general, sushi can be defined as a Japanese delicacy, that is made of cooked vinegar rice and other ingredients, like vegetables, raw fish, cooked fish, and tofu. This is only a basic definition of sushi, which is now available in numerous versions.

As far as traditional sushi is concerned, there are only a few versions, from which, all the current varieties are developed. Now, you have several types of sushi, which are made with a wide range of ingredients.

Even regional tastes are incorporated in the new sushi varieties. The basic ingredients in sushi are vinegared rice, dried seaweeds, vegetables, and fish.

Is Sushi Healthy? This is one of the common queries from sushi lovers all over the world. It is very difficult to answer this question, as there are numerous sushi varieties. The nutritional value of sushi may vary from one type to another.

The traditional sushi varieties are considered healthy, as they are low in calories, and high in omega-3 essential fatty acids, vitamins, and dietary fiber. Some of the contemporary types include fatty ingredients, fatty fish, cream cheese, avocado, and fried fish. In such cases, excess consumption may not be healthy in the long run.

In short, it is the ingredients, especially in the new sushi varieties, that are responsible for the calorie content and nutrition. If you are worried about the nutritional aspects, then inquire about the ingredients, before choosing a particular sushi variety.

• Mostly, sushi is made of white short grain Japanese rice, which is very sticky. This rice is low in calories, and contain small amounts of iron, manganese, magnesium, and phosphorous.
• Even brown rice is used in some versions, and this rice is a good source of fiber, minerals, and vitamins.

• Vegetables, like cucumber, scallions, avocado, and sea greens are used in some sushi. While, cucumber and scallions have a high vitamin C content; avocados are rich in vitamin E, vitamin K, potassium, and omega-fatty acids. Sea greens too are rich in nutrients.

• Seaweed used in sushi is very rich in trace minerals, enzymes, and vitamins. We all know that seafood is a rich source of vitamins, minerals, omega fatty acids, and protein.

In short, nutritional value of a particular type of sushi can be determined on the basis of its ingredients. The calorific value of a California sushi roll (full roll, not pieces) is 255 kcal. It contains seven grams of fat, nine grams of protein, six grams of fiber, and 40 grams of carbohydrates.

Calories in a spicy salmon sushi roll with avocado is around 300. Likewise, the calorific and nutritional value change with each sushi type.

As the nutritional value of sushi is based on its ingredients, it is better to get a basic idea about the same. Go for traditional ones as a healthy option, or else, inquire about the ingredients, and choose the type that is best suited for you.