Bushra Griffith
Cheese grits can be incorporated into a healthy diet, but they can also be unhealthy depending on how they are prepared and what they are served with. Cheese grits are a carbohydrate-filled dish, and when topped with butter, cream, or cheese, the calorie count goes up. However, when paired with other healthy ingredients like lean protein or vegetables, they can be part of a balanced diet and have a limited impact on your blood sugar.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Nutritional value | Grits are rich in carbohydrates and low in fat, protein and fibre. They contain B vitamins, lutein and zeaxanthin, which are good for eye health. Stone-ground grits are the least processed and have the most fibre and nutrients. |
| Calories | Grits cooked in water or broth are low in calories. Adding butter, cream or cheese increases the calorie count. Grits cooked in low-fat milk are higher in calories but also contain protein and vitamin D. |
| Blood sugar | Grits have a high glycemic index and can cause blood sugar spikes. However, combining grits with protein-rich foods and healthy fats can help to slow absorption and stabilise blood sugar. |
| Weight gain | As grits are pure carbs, they can cause weight gain if consumed in large quantities. |
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What You'll Learn
- Cheese grits are high in calories and fat when cooked with butter, cream, or milk
- Cheese grits are high in carbohydrates and can cause blood sugar spikes
- Cheese grits are low in micronutrients and fibre, especially instant grits
- Cheese grits can be part of a balanced diet when paired with lean protein and vegetables
- Stone-ground grits are the most nutrient-dense and high in fibre
Cheese grits are high in calories and fat when cooked with butter, cream, or milk
Cheese grits are a delicious Southern dish, but they can be high in calories and fat when cooked with butter, cream, or milk. While plain grits are naturally low in calories and fat, they often have butter, oil, or cheese added, which can significantly increase the fat and calorie content. For example, grits cooked in low-fat milk are higher in calories and carbohydrates than those cooked in water or broth. Similarly, adding butter, cream, or cheese to grits will also increase the calorie count.
The calorie content of grits depends on the portion size and preparation method. When cooked in water or broth, grits do not have additional calories. However, when prepared with butter, cream, or milk, the calorie count can increase significantly. To keep the calorie content at a reasonable level, it is recommended to limit the amount of milk used to 1/2 to 1 cup and avoid adding extra fat.
Grits are made from corn, which gives them a naturally sweet and salty taste. They are also a good source of B vitamins, which are important for metabolism, cell health, and energy levels. Additionally, grits contain lutein and zeaxanthin, two antioxidants that are beneficial for eye health.
While grits can be a part of a balanced diet, they are relatively low in micronutrients compared to other whole grains. Stone-ground grits, which are the least processed form of grits, have the highest nutritional value, including fiber and B vitamins. On the other hand, instant grits are highly processed and have a lower nutritional value, with less fiber and bioavailable vitamins.
In conclusion, cheese grits can be high in calories and fat when cooked with butter, cream, or milk. However, grits can also be prepared in a healthier way by limiting the use of high-fat ingredients and pairing them with lean protein or vegetables. When eaten in moderation and as part of a balanced diet, grits can be a tasty and nutritious option.
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Cheese grits are high in carbohydrates and can cause blood sugar spikes
Cheese grits are a delicious comfort food, but they are high in carbohydrates and can cause blood sugar spikes if not eaten in moderation and paired with the right foods.
Grits are made from corn, which is a starchy grain, and the type of corn used determines the texture and flavour of the grits. Stone-ground grits, for example, have a coarser texture and stronger corn flavour than instant grits, which are finely ground and have a smoother texture. While stone-ground grits are the least processed form and have the most fibre, they still contain a significant amount of carbohydrates.
When grits are cooked in water or broth, they don't add extra calories or carbohydrates. However, when cheese, butter, cream, or milk are added, the calorie count and carbohydrate content increase. Cheese grits, therefore, have a higher calorie and carbohydrate content than plain grits.
The high carbohydrate content of cheese grits can cause blood sugar spikes, especially in people with diabetes. However, this can be mitigated by pairing cheese grits with the right foods. The American Diabetes Association recommends filling a quarter of your plate with carbohydrate-rich foods, half with non-starchy vegetables, and the remaining quarter with lean protein foods. This helps to slow the absorption of carbohydrates and stabilise blood sugar levels.
Additionally, the nutritional value of grits can be increased by adding fruits, vegetables, and protein. For example, shrimp and grits is a popular Southern dish that combines cheese grits with a lean protein source. By preparing cheese grits with healthier ingredients and in the right portions, you can enjoy this indulgent food while minimising its impact on your blood sugar.
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Cheese grits are low in micronutrients and fibre, especially instant grits
Cheese grits can be a tasty treat, but they are not particularly nutritious. While grits are made from corn, which does contain some nutrients, the process of refining grits removes much of their nutritional value. Stone-ground grits are the least processed form of grits and contain the most fibre and whole-grain nutrients, including B vitamins. However, instant grits are finely ground, and much of the fibre and micronutrients have been removed.
Instant grits are quick grits that have been cooked and dehydrated, making them convenient and quick to prepare. But this convenience comes at the cost of nutritional value. The refining process removes the hull and germ of the corn kernel, leaving behind only the inner starch. This means that instant grits are mostly just carbohydrates and lack the fibre and micronutrients found in stone-ground grits.
Some instant grits are enriched or fortified with vitamins and minerals to replace what is lost during processing. However, even with this added nutritional boost, instant grits still fall short compared to stone-ground grits. Stone-ground grits, because they keep the whole grain intact, are more flavourful and nutritious. They contain fibre that may support metabolic health and reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
Additionally, the toppings and mix-ins typically added to cheese grits can further increase their calorie count and saturated fat content. Cheese grits are often served with butter, milk, cream, or oil, which can add significant amounts of fat and calories to the dish. So, while cheese grits can be a tasty treat, they are not the best source of micronutrients and fibre, especially when it comes to instant grits.
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Cheese grits can be part of a balanced diet when paired with lean protein and vegetables
Grits are typically boiled with water, milk, or stock until creamy. They can be served with butter, milk, cheese, spices, sauces, vegetables, meat, or seafood. When grits are cooked in water or broth, they do not have additional calories. However, adding butter, cream, or cheese increases the calorie count. To keep calories at a reasonable level, limit the amount of milk to 1/2 to 1 cup and avoid extra fat.
Grits are rich in carbohydrates and can be paired with lean protein and vegetables to create a balanced meal. For example, shrimp and grits is a popular Southern dish. Grits can also be cooked in vegetable broth and served with seasoned, breaded fish fillets. Adding vegetables and lean protein can increase the nutritional value of the dish and help to slow the absorption of carbohydrates, stabilising blood sugar levels.
Grits contain various nutrients and have some health benefits. They are high in B vitamins, which help keep metabolism, cells, and energy levels healthy. Grits are also a source of lutein and zeaxanthin, antioxidants that support eye health. Additionally, the fibre in stone-ground and old-fashioned grits may help reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
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Stone-ground grits are the most nutrient-dense and high in fibre
Grits are made from corn, which gives them their signature corn taste. They are also rich in carbohydrates, so it's understandable to question whether they are healthy. However, grits contain various nutrients and can be incorporated into a healthy diet. The nutritional value of grits varies depending on the type or variety.
The fibre in stone-ground grits may help support metabolic health and reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. They provide about 4 grams of fibre per cup, compared to 2 grams for regular or quick grits, and only 1 gram for instant grits. Instant grits are finely ground, and much of the fibre has been removed, so they are not the best option if you're looking for fibre content.
While grits can be a part of a balanced diet, it's important to consider what you eat with them. Grits are often served with butter, milk, cream, cheese, or bacon, which can significantly increase the calorie count and add saturated fat. If you're watching your fat or sugar intake, you might want to consider healthier toppings, such as skim milk, olive oil, fruits, or vegetables.
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Frequently asked questions
Cheese grits can be incorporated into a healthy diet, but they are high in calories and carbohydrates. They are also relatively low in micronutrients compared to most other whole grains.
Cheese grits can be made healthier by preparing them with water or broth, which does not add extra calories. You can also add ingredients like skim milk, olive oil, fruits, and vegetables to boost the nutritional value of the dish.
Some healthy alternatives to cheese grits include shrimp and grits, grits with vegetables, or grits with lean protein.
Cheese grits can be a good source of fiber, especially if you consume stone-ground or old-fashioned varieties. They also contain nutrients that support metabolic health, eye health, and more.
