Mint vs Peppermint: Nutrition, Calories & Protein Compared


Mint vs Peppermint
Nutrition Facts
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Mint vs Peppermint 100g Compare
per 100g | Mint | Peppermint |
---|---|---|
Calories | 44 | 70 |
Carbohydrates | 8.41 g | 14.79 g |
Fat | 0.73 g | 0.94 g |
Dietary fiber | 6.8 g | 8 g |
Protein | 3.29 g | 3.75 g |
Calcium | 199 mg | 243 mg |
Iron | 11.87 mg | 5.08 mg |
Magnessium | 63 mg | 80 mg |
Potassium | 458 mg | 569 mg |
Sodium | 30 mg | 31 mg |
Zink | 1.09 mg | 1.11 mg |
Vitaminium A | 4054 µg | 4248 µg |
Vitaminium B1 (Thiamine) | 0.078 mg | 0.082 mg |
Vitaminium B2 (riboflavin) | 0.175 mg | 0.266 mg |
Vitaminium B3 (Niacin) | 0.948 mg | 1.706 mg |
Vitaminium B6 | 0.158 mg | 0.129 mg |
Vitaminium B9 (Folic acid) | 105 mg | 114 mg |
Vitaminium C | 13.3 mg | 31.8 mg |
Mint and peppermint are two herbs that have captivated the senses and kitchens around the globe for centuries. Not only are they renowned for their refreshing aroma and cool taste, but they also boast a plethora of health benefits and culinary uses that make them staples in any herb garden or spice rack. Before diving into the specifics of mint versus peppermint, let's explore some fascinating facts about these green wonders.
Refreshing Facts You Didn't Know
Mint, known scientifically as Mentha, is actually a genus that comprises around 15 to 20 plant species, including peppermint. Yes, you read that right—peppermint (Mentha × piperita) is a hybrid mint, a cross between watermint and spearmint. This makes peppermint essentially a "child" of the mint family, boasting a more intense flavor and higher oil content than its relatives.
Another interesting tidbit is that the cooling sensation mint and peppermint provide is not due to a change in temperature but rather a reaction with the sensory neurons in your mouth. The menthol in mint activates the same receptors that are involved in sensing cold, tricking your brain into feeling a cool sensation.
Mint and Peppermint: More Than Just Fresh Breath
While many people associate mint and peppermint with fresh breath, these herbs offer much more in terms of health benefits and nutritional value. Let's take a closer look at how these two compare nutritionally, and what makes them such a fantastic addition to your diet.
**Nutritional Highlights**
- **Calories**: Mint is slightly lower in calories, with 44 calories per 100 grams, compared to peppermint's 70 calories. This makes both herbs excellent, low-calorie additions to meals and beverages.
- **Fiber**: Both herbs are high in dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health. Peppermint edges out mint slightly with 8 grams of fiber compared to mint's 6.8 grams.
- **Vitamins and Minerals**: Peppermint provides a slightly higher content of vitamins and minerals, including calcium, magnesium, and vitamins A and C, which are essential for bone health, immune function, and vision.
- **Iron**: Mint is notably high in iron, with 11.87 mg per 100 grams, making it a great herb for supporting blood health.
Despite these nutritional differences, both mint and peppermint are virtually fat-free and cholesterol-free, making them heart-healthy choices for adding flavor to dishes without adding extra fat or calories.
Culinary Uses and Health Benefits
Mint and peppermint are incredibly versatile in the kitchen. Mint leaves are a popular addition to teas, cocktails, salads, and desserts for a refreshing flavor. Peppermint, with its stronger flavor, is often used in candies, gum, and toothpaste, as well as in essential oils for aromatherapy.
Health-wise, both herbs are celebrated for their digestive benefits, including relieving symptoms of IBS and indigestion. The menthol in peppermint can also help alleviate respiratory issues, making peppermint tea a go-to remedy for colds and flu.
The Bottom Line
While mint and peppermint share many similarities, their nutritional profiles and intensities of flavor set them apart. Whether you're a fan of the gentle, versatile flavor of mint or the strong, refreshing zing of peppermint, incorporating these herbs into your diet can add not only a burst of flavor but also a host of health benefits. So, the next time you're looking to freshen up your meal or beverage, consider reaching for some mint or peppermint. Your body (and taste buds) will thank you.
Mint 100g
44kcalCalories source
- 63% CARBS.
- 25% PROTEIN
- 12% FAT
Peppermint 100g
70kcalCalories source
- 72% CARBS
- 18% PROTEIN
- 10% FAT
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Marcin Piotrowicz
calories-info.com creator
Healthy diet and healthy lifestyle promoter
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