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

Lettuce vs Chickpeas: 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?

Lettuce is generally healthier

Lettuce comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (15 vs 164), less sugar (0.6g vs 4.8g), less sodium (5mg vs 7mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Lettuce

15 kcal

More Protein

Chickpeas

8.9g

More Fiber

Chickpeas

7.6g

Less Sugar

Lettuce

0.6g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Lettuce
15
Chickpeas
164
Proteinper 100g
Lettuce
1.2g
Chickpeas
8.9g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Lettuce
3g
Chickpeas
27g
Fatper 100g
Lettuce
0.2g
Chickpeas
2.6g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientLettuceChickpeasDifference
Calories15kcal164kcal-149.0kcal
Protein1.2g8.9g-7.7g
Carbohydrates3g27g-24.0g
Fat0.2g2.6g-2.4g
Fiber1.3g7.6g-6.3g
Sugar0.6g4.8g-4.2g
Sodium5mg7mg-2.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

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

Lettuce

Per 100g:15 calories
Per cup (150g):23 calories
Per serving (85g):13 calories

Chickpeas

Per 100g:164 calories
Per cup (150g):246 calories
Per serving (85g):139 calories

Diet Compatibility

Lettuce

Low-CarbLow-CalorieVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

Chickpeas

VeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

When to Choose Lettuce

  • Lower in calories (15 vs 164)
  • Lower in carbs (3g vs 27g)
  • Less sugar (0.6g vs 4.8g)
  • Lower sodium (5mg vs 7mg)

Common Uses

SaladsStir-friesRoasted sidesSoups
View full Lettuce nutrition →

When to Choose Chickpeas

  • Higher in protein (8.9g vs 1.2g)
  • More fiber (7.6g vs 1.3g)

Common Uses

SaladsStir-friesRoasted sidesSoups
View full Chickpeas nutrition →

Lettuce vs Chickpeas: Nutritional Analysis

Chickpeas is more calorie-dense at 164 calories per 100g compared to 15 for Lettuce, a difference of 149 calories. On the protein front, Chickpeas delivers more with 8.9g per 100g versus 1.2g, 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 Lettuce and Chickpeas tell different nutritional stories. Lettuce provides 3g of carbohydrates, 0.2g of fat, and 1.3g of fiber per 100g, while Chickpeas contains 27g carbs, 2.6g fat, and 7.6g fiber. The higher fiber content in Chickpeas supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Lettuce contains 0.6g while Chickpeas has 4.8g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Lettuce is the lower-calorie choice at 15 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Chickpeas provides more protein (8.9g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Chickpeas offers more fiber (7.6g/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, Lettuce or Chickpeas?

Chickpeas has more calories with 164 kcal per 100g, compared to Lettuce with 15 kcal. That's a difference of 149 calories per 100g serving.

Is Lettuce healthier than Chickpeas?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Lettuce is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Lettuce has 15 calories, 1.2g protein, and 1.3g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Lettuce and Chickpeas?

Chickpeas has more protein with 8.9g per 100g, compared to Lettuce with 1.2g. Chickpeas provides 7.7g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Lettuce or Chickpeas?

For weight loss, Lettuce is the better choice with only 15 calories per 100g compared to 164 calories in Chickpeas. Chickpeas also offers 7.6g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Lettuce or Chickpeas have fewer carbs?

Lettuce has fewer carbs with 3g per 100g, compared to Chickpeas with 27g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Lettuce is the better option with 24.0g 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.