Hot Dog - How Many Calories?

Happy Memorial Day! This is one of the best holidays because it unoffically marks the start of the summer season. And with summer comes one of the great American traditions -- barbecues. Chances are you're spending your Memorial Day at one with a dozen or so of your closest friends and neighbors -- am I right?

But barbecues can be dangerous territory for those watching their weight. Forget all the sides like potato chips, creamy salads, dips and desserts -- can the meat alone can be enough to send you into a calorie crisis?

According to the 2009 Calorie King Calories, Fat & Carbohydrate Counter, a 1/4 pound Beef Dog with bun can have 480 calories and 15 g of fat. Keep in mind that's without cheese, mayo or any other calorie-laden add-ons that can bump this number up by a couple hundred calories. And when you consider that the hot dog is really just a one part of a pretty large meal, you have to admit that this is one barbecue item you might want to skip.

But all hope is not lost, hot dog lovers -- just watch your portions. A regular-sized hot dog only has around 260 calories with the bun, and a turkey dog has even less than that. And when you're loading up your bun, keep in mind that mustard and fresh veggies are virtually calorie-free.