Written by CalorieData Nutrition TeamReviewed by a Registered DietitianLast Updated: March 2026

Ground Beef vs Gatorade: Nutrition Comparison

Which is healthier? Compare calories, protein, carbs, and more

Complete side-by-side nutrition comparison per 100g serving | Updated 2026

Which is Healthier?

Both foods have similar nutritional profiles

Both foods have similar nutritional profiles with each winning in different categories. Your choice should depend on your specific dietary goals and preferences. Ground Beef has 250 calories while Gatorade has 26 calories per 100g.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Gatorade

26 kcal

More Protein

Ground Beef

26g

More Fiber

Ground Beef

0g

Less Sugar

Ground Beef

0g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Ground Beef
250
Gatorade
26
Proteinper 100g
Ground Beef
26g
Gatorade
0g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Ground Beef
0g
Gatorade
6.7g
Fatper 100g
Ground Beef
17g
Gatorade
0g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientGround BeefGatoradeDifference
Calories250kcal26kcal+224.0kcal
Protein26g0g+26.0g
Carbohydrates0g6.7g-6.7g
Fat17g0g+17.0g
Fiber0g0g0.0g
Sugar0g5.8g-5.8g
Sodium75mg41mg+34.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

All values above are per 100g. Here's how they compare in common serving sizes:

Ground Beef

Per 100g:250 calories
Per cup (150g):375 calories
Per serving (85g):213 calories

Gatorade

Per 100g:26 calories
Per cup (150g):39 calories
Per serving (85g):22 calories

Diet Compatibility

Ground Beef

KetoLow-CarbHigh-ProteinPaleoLow-Sodium

Gatorade

Low-CarbLow-CalorieVeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

When to Choose Ground Beef

  • Higher in protein (26g vs 0g)
  • More fiber (0g vs 0g)
  • Lower in carbs (0g vs 6.7g)
  • Less sugar (0g vs 5.8g)

Common Uses

Main dishesMeal prepGrillingHigh-protein meals
View full Ground Beef nutrition →

When to Choose Gatorade

  • Lower in calories (26 vs 250)
  • Lower sodium (41mg vs 75mg)

Common Uses

HydrationMorning ritualSocial occasionsEnergy boost
View full Gatorade nutrition →

Ground Beef vs Gatorade: Nutritional Analysis

Ground Beef is more calorie-dense at 250 calories per 100g compared to 26 for Gatorade, a difference of 224 calories. On the protein front, Ground Beef delivers more with 26g per 100g versus 0g, which matters for muscle maintenance, satiety, and overall metabolic health. These differences become meaningful when you consider how each food fits into your daily dietary pattern rather than looking at any single nutrient in isolation.

Macronutrient Breakdown

The macronutrient profiles of Ground Beef and Gatorade tell different nutritional stories. Ground Beef provides 0g of carbohydrates, 17g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Gatorade contains 6.7g carbs, 0g fat, and 0g fiber. Sugar content also differs: Ground Beef contains 0g while Gatorade has 5.8g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Gatorade is the lower-calorie choice at 26 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Ground Beef provides more protein (26g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Ground Beef offers more fiber (0g/100g), which slows digestion and provides steadier energy release.
  • Overall: Neither food is universally "better" than the other. The right choice depends on your specific nutritional goals, meal context, and dietary preferences. Both can play a role in a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which has more calories, Ground Beef or Gatorade?

Ground Beef has more calories with 250 kcal per 100g, compared to Gatorade with 26 kcal. That's a difference of 224 calories per 100g serving.

Is Ground Beef healthier than Gatorade?

Ground Beef and Gatorade have similar nutritional profiles, with each food winning in different categories. The healthier choice depends on your specific dietary goals and nutritional needs.

What is the protein difference between Ground Beef and Gatorade?

Ground Beef has more protein with 26g per 100g, compared to Gatorade with 0g. Ground Beef provides 26.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Ground Beef or Gatorade?

For weight loss, Gatorade is the better choice with only 26 calories per 100g compared to 250 calories in Ground Beef. Gatorade also offers 0g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Ground Beef or Gatorade have fewer carbs?

Ground Beef has fewer carbs with 0g per 100g, compared to Gatorade with 6.7g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Ground Beef is the better option with 6.7g fewer carbohydrates.

About Our Data

All nutrition data in this comparison is sourced from the USDA FoodData Central, the official food composition database maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Values are based on 100g servings for accurate comparison.

Health Disclaimer: This comparison is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or dietary advice. Nutritional needs vary by individual. The best food choice depends on your personal health goals, dietary requirements, and preferences. Consult a healthcare provider or registered dietitian for personalized nutrition guidance.