As Delicious as They Can Be, Are Crepes Healthy?

Crepes are the French version of pancakes, usually with diameters much larger than traditional pancakes due to their thinness. While crepes originated in France, you can find crepes served in restaurants around the globe, and crepes often contain fruit and other fillings for breakfast, as well as meats and cheese when served as lunch and dinner. Product nutrition may vary by restaurant due to differences in recipes.

Because they are quite thin, crepes tend to be low in calories. A crepe with a 10-inch diameter contains 90 calories, which is just 4.5 percent of the daily suggested intake of 2,000. Crepes are lower in calories than other breakfast items; two scrambled eggs provide 140 calories, while an American-style pancake with a diameter of just 4 inches contains 94 calories.

Crepes are relatively low in fat, as each 10-inch crepe contains 3 g of total fat. Of this fat, only 1 g comes from saturated fat. While your body needs fat for optimal health, not all types of fat provide benefits. Too much saturated fat can increase your cholesterol levels, which increases your risk of heart disease. The American Heart Association suggests consuming less than 16 g of saturated fat daily when following a 2000-calorie diet for optimal heart health.

Crepes are carbohydrate rich, as each 10-inch crepe contains 13 g of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates provide your body with energy, so eating high-carbohydrate foods can be beneficial before athletic events. While crepes are high in carbohydrates, pancakes are higher in this nutrient; a pancake with just a 4-inch diameter contains 18 g of carbohydrates.

Crepes are relatively low in sugar; each 10-inch wide crepe provides just 4 g. This amount is 1 g less than a 4-inch wide pancake contains. Eating too much sugar can lead to tooth decay and may encourage obesity, as sugar is calorie-dense but not very filling. To satisfy your sweet tooth healthfully, top your crepe with fresh chopped fruit.

Crepes do not provide much protein; one crepe with a 10-inch diameter contains just 4 g, which is half of what a cup of milk contains. Protein is necessary for the growth and repair of all of your body's tissues. Up the protein content of your crepes by filling them with Greek yogurt, or add a spoon full of nut butter.

Crepes are moderately low in sodium, as each one contains 210 mg, which comprises 9 percent of the daily suggested intake of 2,300 mg. Too much sodium can lead to increased blood pressure and fluid retention. Adding processed meats to your crepes — for example, bacon, turkey bacon or ham — also boosts your salt intake.

Crepes are moderately low in cholesterol, with 40 mg in each 10-inch crepe. This amount comprises 13 percent of the American Heart Association's daily suggested limit of 300 mg.