Masala chai vs nimbu pani: calories and protein compared
Short answer: for fat loss pick masala chai; for muscle gain masala chai does more. The numbers are per usual serving, so check the serving sizes in the table.
| Per serving | Masala chai | Nimbu pani |
|---|---|---|
| Serving | 1 cup | 1 glass |
| Calories | 82 kcal | 60 kcal |
| Protein | 3 g | 0 g |
| Carbs | 11 g | 15 g |
| Fat | 3 g | 0 g |
| Protein per 100 kcal | 3.7 g | 0 g |
| Calories from fat | 33% | 0% |
What the numbers say
- Masala chai has 22 kcal more a serving than nimbu pani. One serving of masala chai has the calories of about 1.4 servings of nimbu pani.
- Masala chai has more protein: 3 g vs 0 g.
- For protein per calorie, masala chai wins with 3.7 g per 100 kcal.
- They suit different diets: masala chai is vegetarian and nimbu pani is vegan.
Which to pick
- Losing fat: Masala chai, because it gives more protein for each calorie, which keeps you full and protects muscle.
- Building muscle: Masala chai, because it brings more protein a serving.
- Either way: the cooking fat moves both numbers most. Halving the oil or ghee is the easiest cut.