Tortilla Calories & Nutritional Facts Calculator
Calculate precise calories and comprehensive nutritional information for different types of tortillas. Get detailed insights into protein, carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, and minerals to make informed dietary choices.
Tortillas Calories & Nutrition Information
Tortillas are a traditional flatbread originating from Mexico, made from corn or wheat flour. Traditional corn tortillas are made through nixtamalization, an ancient process where corn is treated with lime (calcium hydroxide), which improves protein quality, increases calcium content, and enhances niacin bioavailability. They serve as a versatile base for countless dishes and are a staple food in Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine worldwide.
Nutritional Highlights:
- Carbohydrates: Primary energy source, typically 11-23g per tortilla depending on size
- Protein: Moderate source with 1.4-4.8g per tortilla, supporting muscle health
- Fiber: Varies by type, with whole wheat (8.9g/100g) and corn (4.5g/100g) providing more fiber
- B Vitamins: Good source of thiamin, riboflavin, and niacin for energy metabolism
- Iron: Provides 0.4-1.3mg per tortilla for oxygen transport
- Folate: Essential for cell division, varies by fortification (6-43mcg per tortilla)
Health Considerations:
- Corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free and lower in calories
- Whole wheat tortillas provide more fiber and nutrients
- Watch portion sizes and fillings for calorie control
- Choose corn tortillas for authentic Mexican flavor and nutrition
For more comprehensive nutrition information and healthy eating tips, visit our nutrition guides or explore our complete collection of food calculators.
Complete Guide to Tortilla Nutrition
Corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free and lower in calories (218 cal/100g), while flour tortillas provide more protein (8.2g vs 5.7g per 100g). Whole wheat tortillas offer the highest fiber content (8.9g/100g), making them excellent for digestive health and blood sugar control. Blue corn tortillas contain anthocyanins, providing antioxidant properties.
Corn vs. Flour Tortillas: Which is Healthier?
Corn tortillas typically contain fewer calories (about 52-55 per small 6″ tortilla) compared to flour tortillas (85-95 calories for medium 8″ tortilla). Corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free and contain more fiber per calorie (4.5g vs 2.7g per 100g). However, flour tortillas provide more protein and are often fortified with additional nutrients like iron and B vitamins.
Tortilla Nutrition Facts and Health Benefits
Tortillas provide essential carbohydrates for energy, along with important nutrients like folate, iron, and B vitamins. When choosing tortillas, look for whole grain options that provide more fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels. Visit our macro calculator to plan balanced meals with tortillas.
Tortilla Nutrition Comparison Table
Tortilla Type | Calories (per 100g) | Protein (g) | Carbs (g) | Fiber (g) | Fat (g) | Sodium (mg) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Corn Tortilla | 218 | 5.7 | 44.8 | 4.5 | 2.9 | 11 |
Flour Tortilla | 304 | 8.2 | 50.4 | 2.7 | 7.3 | 526 |
Whole Wheat | 298 | 10.7 | 51.8 | 8.9 | 5.8 | 369 |
Blue Corn | 221 | 6.2 | 45.2 | 5.8 | 3.1 | 8 |
Low-Carb | 282 | 12.8 | 32.1 | 18.2 | 8.5 | 425 |
References
- Colín-Chávez, C., Virgen-Ortiz, J. J., Serrano-Rubio, L. E., Martínez-Téllez, M. A., & Astier, M. (2020). Comparison of nutritional properties and bioactive compounds between industrial and artisan fresh tortillas from maize landraces. Current Research in Food Science, 3, 189.
- De Dios Figueroa Cárdenas, J., Godínez, M. G. A., Tristán, T. Q., & Serrano, E. R. (2005). Effect of nutritionally fortified tortillas on growth and physical development in the pig. Nutrition Research, 25(7), 711-716.
- Scazzina, Francesca & Del Rio, Daniele & Serventi, Luca & Carini, Eleonora & Vittadini, Elena. (2008). Development of Nutritionally Enhanced Tortillas. Food Biophysics. 3. 235-240. 10.1007/s11483-008-9072-9.