Broccoli vs Lentils
Side-by-side macro comparison. Broccoli vs Lentils per their standard serving sizes.
Macro Comparison Table
| Macro | Broccoli | Lentils | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 34 cal | 230 cal | -85% Broccoli |
| Protein | 2.8g | 18g | -84% Broccoli |
| Carbs | 7g | 40g | -82% Broccoli |
| Fat | 0.4g | 0.8g | -50% Broccoli |
Differences shown relative to Broccoli. Positive = Broccoli has more.
Quick Take
Broccoli delivers 34 calories per serving with 2.8g protein, 7g carbs, and 0.4g fat. Lentils delivers 230 calories with 18g protein, 40g carbs, and 0.8g fat. The most meaningful difference: Broccoli saves 196 calories per serving — meaningful over a week of meals. For protein density per calorie, Broccoli wins at 33% of calories from protein.
When to Pick Each
For Cutting / Weight Loss
When cutting on a tight calorie budget, Broccoli gives you 196 more calories of headroom per serving — that's room for an extra snack, more vegetables, or a higher-protein second portion. If protein density matters more (which it does for preserving muscle on a deficit), Broccoli delivers more grams of protein per calorie consumed.
For Bulking / Muscle Gain
For muscle gain, you want calories AND protein. Lentils brings 230 calories — useful when you're chasing a surplus and struggling to eat enough. Lentils delivers 18g of protein per serving, which directly feeds muscle protein synthesis. The best pick depends on whether you need more total calories or more usable protein.
For Keto / Low-Carb
Broccoli fits cleanly into keto with only 7g carbs. Lentils at 40g carbs uses significantly more of your daily 20-30g carb budget.
Frequently Asked
Which has more protein, Broccoli or Lentils?
Lentils has more protein: 18g vs 2.8g per serving. That's a difference of 15.2g.
Which has fewer calories, Broccoli or Lentils?
Broccoli has 34 calories per serving vs 230 calories in Lentils — a difference of 196 calories.
Is Broccoli or Lentils better for keto?
Broccoli is the better keto choice at 7g carbs per serving vs 40g carbs in Lentils.
Is Broccoli or Lentils better for weight loss?
For weight loss, Broccoli gives you more calorie flexibility (196 cal less per serving). For preserving muscle during a deficit, Broccoli delivers more protein per calorie. Most people on cuts benefit from Broccoli.
Which Is Better for Your Goal?
🔥 Weight Loss
Broccoli
Higher protein-to-calorie density + lower absolute fat = more satiety per calorie.
💪 Muscle Gain
Lentils
Higher absolute protein per serving better supports muscle protein synthesis.
🥑 Low-Carb / Keto
Broccoli
Lower carbohydrate content fits keto and low-carb macros without burning your carb budget.
Both fit most balanced diets. These verdicts reflect macro-only comparisons — taste, satiety, cost, and personal preference also matter.
Find Your Personal Macros
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