One glass of sima contains as much energy as several meatballs, study shows

A single glass of sima, a traditional Finnish May Day drink, contains roughly the same energy as 4.2 meatballs, according to data from the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL), reports Yle.

The comparison, based on THL’s Fineli food composition database, reveals that 3 decilitres of sima (about one glass) matches the energy content of 4.2 industrially produced meatballs (15 g each). Despite this, liquid calories often go unnoticed, as drinks do not trigger the same feeling of fullness as solid food, says Tarja Himberg, a clinical dietitian at Turku Health Centre.

“People tend to underestimate the energy content of drinks,” Himberg notes. “On paper, a diet might look balanced, but once beverages are factored in, daily energy intake can be significantly higher than expected.”

Research supports this observation, showing that liquid calories do not reduce subsequent food intake in the same way as solid calories. A US study found that participants who consumed energy in liquid form ate nearly 22% more in their next meal compared to those who consumed the same energy in solid form.

Himberg explains that chewing solid food activates sensory signals that promote satiety before the food even reaches the stomach. Drinks, however, bypass this process, leading to faster consumption and less lasting fullness. Additionally, solid foods contain more protein and fibre, which prolong satiety, whereas many drinks are primarily fast-absorbing carbohydrates.

While Himberg encourages a relaxed approach to occasional indulgences like May Day celebrations, she advises moderation. “No one’s world will collapse from enjoying a few drinks,” she says, but suggests eating normally before festivities to avoid excessive hunger. After celebrations, she recommends returning to regular meal routines and opting for water as a drink.

For those curious about the energy content of other May Day beverages, Yle’s comparison chart (based on THL data) allows readers to check how their drink of choice measures up—whether it’s sparkling wine, cider, or another traditional option.