Calories in Mayhaw: Nutritional facts for Mayhaw Types

One hundred grams (3.5 oz) of raw mayhaws contains 51 calories.

One kilogram (1,000 g) of raw mayhaws provides 510 calories.

One single whole mayhaw fruit weighing 3 g (0.1 oz) contains 1.5 calories.

Mayhaws provide some health benefits like improved cardiovascular function and reduced oxidative stress due to their high concentration of polyphenols and Vitamin C. This fruit, a member of the hawthorn family, is highly valued in folk medicine and modern nutrition. A list of the health benefits of mayhaw are shown below.

• Neutralizes Free Radicals: The berries contain high levels of anthocyanins. A study by Payumo et al. (1987), "Antioxidant Properties of Crataegus Species," found that the fruit provides significant protection against cellular oxidation.
• Supports Heart Health: Hawthorn species are known to improve blood flow to the heart. Research by Soni et al. (2012), "Phytochemical and Pharmacological profile of Crataegus species," highlights the vascular-strengthening effects of these fruits.
• Enhances Immune Defense: The Vitamin C content supports the production of white blood cells.
• Promotes Digestive Regularity: The high pectin content serves as a prebiotic fiber to support gut health.
• Reduces Systemic Inflammation: Bioflavonoids in the skin and pulp help lower inflammatory markers in the body.
• Supports Healthy Blood Pressure: The potassium content helps balance sodium levels and relax blood vessel walls.

Mayhaw has been known to cause some unwanted effects like sugar spikes and potential medication interactions due to its processing methods and high fruit acidity. A list of the downsides of mayhaw are shown below.

• High Sugar in Processed Forms: Most mayhaw recipes call for equal parts sugar and juice, which can lead to weight gain and insulin resistance.
• Potential Drug Interactions: Like other hawthorn species, it may interact with heart medications like digoxin or blood pressure drugs. A study by Tassell et al. (2010), "Hawthorn (Crataegus spp.) in the treatment of cardiovascular disease," warns of potential synergy with cardiac pharmaceuticals.
• Gastrointestinal Acidity: The raw berries are extremely tart and can cause heartburn or dental enamel erosion in sensitive individuals.

Yes, mayhaws are good for you because they deliver 20% of the DV for Vitamin C and a rich supply of heart-healthy antioxidants in every 100 g (3.5 oz) serving. Healthy individuals should consume 150 g (1 cup) of the raw fruit or use the jelly in moderation to gain the best vascular benefits. A study by Soni et al. (2012), "Phytochemical and Pharmacological profile of Crataegus species," confirms that the fruit is a potent source of health-promoting bioflavonoids. They are a nutrient-dense berry that supports long-term heart health.

The calories in mayhaw change primarily through processing and the concentration of natural sugars in the species. Fresh Eastern and Western mayhaws contain 51 calories per 100 g (3.5 oz). If the fruit is processed using a recipe for mayhaw jelly, the energy increases to 250 calories per 100 g (3.5 oz) because water is boiled away and a massive amount of sucrose is added. The rare Yellow Mayhaw contains 53 calories per 100 g (3.5 oz) because it naturally holds a higher concentration of fructose.

The origin of the mayhaw (Crataegus series Aestivales) is the swampy, low-lying wetlands of the Southeastern United States. Historically, locals would harvest the wild berries by boat as they ripened in April and May and floated on the water surface. Early settlers in Louisiana developed the first recorded recipe for mayhaw jelly to preserve the fruit's short-lived seasonal bounty. Today, the berry is the official state fruit of Louisiana and remains a symbol of Southern wetlands heritage and artisanal food production.