How Many Calories in an Egg
A large egg has ~72 calories — full breakdown by size and cooking method
⚡Quick Answer
A large egg has about 72 calories, rising to 90 if fried in butter or oil. It also delivers 6g of protein and key nutrients like vitamin D, B12, and choline — making it one of the most nutrient-dense foods per calorie.
Step-by-Step Guide
Quick Answer
A large egg has about 72 calories — the most common size in US grocery stores and the standard used by nutrition labels. The calorie count is split roughly 55 kcal in the yolk and 17 kcal in the white, so how you eat the egg matters.
Calories by Size
Small = 54 cal | Medium = 63 cal | Large = 72 cal | Jumbo = 90 cal. Egg size is determined by minimum weight per dozen, not the shell dimensions, so a jumbo egg is simply a heavier egg with proportionally more yolk and white.
Calories by Cooking Method
Hard/Soft boiled = 78 cal | Fried = 90 cal | Scrambled = 91 cal (with milk/butter added). Boiling preserves the natural calorie count of the egg itself, while frying in oil or butter can add 15–20 extra calories depending on how much fat is used.
Nutrition Breakdown
One large egg delivers 6g protein, 5g fat (mostly healthy unsaturated), 0.6g carbs, plus vitamins D and B12, choline, and selenium. The yolk is where nearly all the fat, vitamins, and minerals live, while the white is essentially pure protein with minimal calories.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories are in just the egg white?
An **egg white** from a large egg has about **17 calories** and **3.6g protein** with essentially zero fat or carbohydrates. This makes egg whites a popular choice for athletes and dieters who want high-quality protein without the extra fat from the yolk.
How many calories are in just the yolk?
A **large egg yolk** contains about **55 calories**, **5g fat**, and **2.7g protein**. It also holds virtually all of the egg's fat-soluble vitamins (D, A, E, K), choline, and carotenoids, making it the most nutrient-dense part despite its higher calorie count.
Are eggs good for weight loss?
Yes — **eggs are highly satiating** due to their combination of protein and fat, which slow digestion and suppress hunger hormones. Studies show that eating eggs for breakfast can reduce overall daily calorie intake by keeping you fuller for longer compared to carbohydrate-heavy alternatives.
How many eggs can I eat per day?
For most healthy adults, **1–2 eggs per day** is considered safe and nutritious within a balanced diet. Current research shows that moderate egg consumption does not significantly raise cardiovascular risk for healthy people, though those with specific cholesterol conditions should consult a doctor.