Falafel
Arabic dishesThe crunchy crowd favourite of the Levant and Egypt: made mainly from chickpeas, fava beans and herbs, which gives it a low glycemic index (35) and excellent fibre; its only challenge is how much frying oil it absorbs.
Glycemic index
Glycemic load
Calories
Protein
💡 Smart Nutritional Guidance
Consumption advice
Have two or three falafel at breakfast in a small wholegrain flatbread with a large salad, and avoid eating 6 or 7 at once to keep the calories in check.
Best preparation methods
Cook them in an air fryer or the oven with a light brush of olive oil; you get the same delicious crunch with about half the absorbed fat.
Important Nutritional Note
For people with diabetes or insulin resistance, it is always recommended to consider the total glycemic load (GL) of the meal rather than relying on the glycemic index alone.
Nutrition facts
| Nutrient | Per 100 g | Per typical portion (50 g) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 333 kcal | 166.5 kcal |
| Protein | 13 g | 6.5 g |
| Carbohydrate | 32 g | 16 g |
| Available carbohydrate | 27 g | 13.5 g |
| Fat | 18 g | 9 g |
| Dietary fibre | 5 g | 2.5 g |
The typical portion is approximate, for comparison purposes.
Comparison & smarter alternatives
Among the foods in Arabic dishes with a glycemic index (24), it ranks 6 (lowest first).
Smart alternatives from the same family:
Frequently asked questions
Is Falafel good for weight loss?
It can be included in moderation: it contains 5 g of fibre per 100 g, which supports fullness, and a 50 g portion gives 166 kcal.
How does Falafel affect blood sugar?
Its glycemic index is 35 (Low), a clinically reviewed estimate rather than a laboratory measurement. A typical 50 g portion has a glycemic load of 4.7 (Low), so the effect of this portion on blood sugar is limited.
What is the nutritional value of a typical portion of Falafel?
A typical 50 g portion of Falafel provides about 166 kcal, 6.5 g protein, 16 g carbohydrate, 9 g fat and 2.5 g fibre.
Reviewed by the WiBo Health medical team · Last reviewed 13 October 2026
Disclaimer: This guidance is for nutritional lifestyle orientation and does not constitute a diagnostic medical device under EU Regulation MDR 2017/745.