Focaccia Calories: How Many Calories are in a Slice of Focaccia Bread?

Focaccia Calories: How Many Calories are in a Slice of Focaccia Bread?

Focaccia is a delicious Italian flatbread that makes a wonderful accompaniment to meals. The chewy texture and olive oil topping are so mouthwatering. But is focaccia a healthy bread option if you are watching your calories or have dietary concerns like diabetes? Let's take a look at the number of calories in focaccia per slice and how it fits into different diets.

What is Focaccia?

Focaccia is a thick, spongy Italian flatbread seasoned with olive oil and herbs. Traditional recipes call for few ingredients: flour, water, olive oil, salt and yeast. The dough is baked into a sheet pan, coated with more olive oil and sprinkled with toppings like rosemary, sage, onions or olives before baking again.

Compared to pizza dough, focaccia uses more oil and omits sugar for a flatter and slightly denser texture. It can be topped or left plain and served as bread with meals. Focaccia also makes excellent sandwiches or can be cut into wedges for appetizers.

Nutrition Facts for Focaccia

The nutrition content of focaccia can vary based on specific ingredients and how it is prepared. Here are the approximate nutrition facts for a 1-ounce slice of plain focaccia made with all-purpose flour:

• Calories: 75
• Fat: 2g
• Carbs: 11g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 1g

As you can see, a single slice of focaccia contains a moderate amount of calories and carbohydrates along with a little bit of fat and protein. The exact macros will change if other flour types or mix-ins are added.

Calories in a Slice of Focaccia

So how many calories are actually in that slice of focaccia on your plate? Here is a breakdown:

• 1-ounce slice: 75 calories
• 2-ounce slice: 150 calories
• 3-ounce slice: 225 calories
• 4-ounce slice: 300 calories

The typical serving size of focaccia is often around 2-3 ounces. So you're looking at 150-225 calories for one average slice to eat along with a meal or make into a sandwich.

Comparing Focaccia Calories to Other Breads

How does focaccia stack up calorie-wise against other types of bread?

Here is a comparison of the approximate calories in different breads per 2-ounce slice:

• Focaccia: 150 calories
• White bread: 140 calories
• Whole wheat bread: 110 calories
• Sourdough bread: 130 calories
• Rye bread: 120 calories
• Pumpernickel bread: 120 calories

Focaccia is a bit higher in calories than many other bread options. The extra olive oil used compared to standard sandwich bread adds additional fat and calories. But the calories are fairly comparable to white, sourdough and some whole grain breads.

Focaccia Nutrition Benefits

Beyond just calories, here are some of the key nutritional benefits focaccia offers:

• Fiber - Provides a moderate amount of dietary fiber for gut health.
• Protein - Contains plant-based proteins.
• Iron - Offers a bit of iron, an important mineral.
• B vitamins - Provides small amounts of thiamin, riboflavin, niacin and folate.
• Antioxidants - Includes polyphenols with antioxidant powers.
• Olive oil - Provides anti-inflammatory heart healthy fats from olive oil.

Keep in mind nutrition values can change based on the ingredients used. But in general, focaccia offers some valuable vitamins, minerals, protein and healthy fats.

Health Benefits of Focaccia

Here are some of the top health benefits that focaccia bread offers:

• Aids digestion - The fiber supports regularity and gut health.
• Provides energy - Complex carbs provide a steady energy source.
• May lower cholesterol - Olive oil contains heart healthy fats.
• Helps control blood sugar - Has a lower glycemic index than some breads.
• Rich in antioxidants - Polyphenols help combat free radicals.
• Contains probiotics - Fermented sourdough versions provide probiotics.

Of course, these benefits can vary based on the specific ingredients used in a recipe. But in general, focaccia provides valuable nutrition for good health.

Focaccia and Weight Loss

Is focaccia bread an option for people trying to lose weight by cutting calories? There are a few things to keep in mind.

Compared to plain white bread, focaccia tends to be higher in calories due to the olive oil. So for weight loss, consider swapping focaccia for lighter bread options like:

• Sprouted grain bread
• 100% whole wheat bread
• Rye or pumpernickel bread
• Sourdough bread

These provide more fiber and nutrients to keep you full on fewer calories. You can also look for light focaccia recipes made with part whole grain or sprouted flours.

When eating focaccia for weight loss, keep portions small and moderate. Limit higher calorie add-ons like cheese and meats which increase the overall calorie content.

Focaccia and Diets for Diabetes

For people with diabetes watching their carbohydrate intake, focaccia can be part of a healthy diet when enjoyed in moderation.

Here are some tips for including focaccia on a diabetes-friendly diet:

• Opt for sprouted grain or 100% whole wheat focaccia for more fiber.
• Check the carb content and plan portions into your meal plan.
• Combine it with protein foods to blunt blood sugar spikes.
• Look for lower glycemic index varieties.
• Experiment with alternative flours like almond or coconut.
• Limit higher carb add-ons like honey or sugary fruits.

Using healthy ingredients and controlling portions allows you to enjoy focaccia as part of your overall healthy diabetes diet.

Healthiest Ways to Enjoy Focaccia

Here are some tips for making focaccia as nutritious as possible:

• Opt for whole grain, sprouted grain or ancient grain flour versions.
• Load up on vegetable toppings like tomatoes, onions and olives.
• Use healthy oils like olive oil or avocado oil.
• Flavor with fresh herbs instead of butter or creamy sauces.
• Look for recipes with probiotic sourdough starters.
• Limit processed meat or cheese toppings.
• Watch portion sizes and enjoy as part of an overall healthy diet.

With smart adjustments, focaccia can be a tasty and nutritious addition to a balanced diet and lifestyle.

The Bottom Line on Focaccia Nutrition and Calories

When enjoyed in moderation as part of an overall healthy diet, focaccia can provide valuable nutrition. A standard 2-3 ounce slice of focaccia contains about 150-225 calories.

Compared to plain sandwich bread, focaccia tends to be a bit higher in calories due to the olive oil. But it's fairly comparable to many other breads.

Focaccia provides protein, fiber, B vitamins and antioxidant polyphenols. The olive oil also adds anti-inflammatory fats. Just be mindful of portion sizes, ingredients and enjoy focaccia as part of an active lifestyle for good health.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.