Randy Chandler
Cheddar cheese is a semi-hard cheese that originated in the village of Cheddar in Somerset, England, where damp, cool caves provide perfect humidity conditions for the cheese to mature. It is one of the most popular cheeses in the US, but how fatty is it? Cheddar is higher in fat, calories, and sodium compared to other cheeses. It is rich in vitamin K2, a nutrient that prevents calcium from building up in your arteries and veins, and also contains zero carbohydrates. However, it has fairly high levels of saturated fat compared to other dairy products, with 6 grams of saturated fat per ounce.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Fat content | High in total fat (10 grams per ounce) and saturated fat (6 grams per ounce) |
| Calories | High in calories (114 calories per ounce) |
| Cholesterol | May help lower cholesterol, especially in middle-aged adults |
| Sodium | Relatively high in sodium (190mg per ounce) |
| Protein | Good source of protein (7 grams per ounce) |
| Carbohydrates | Contains zero carbohydrates |
| Sugar | Little to no sugar |
| Calcium | Rich in calcium (200mg per ounce) |
| Vitamin K | Rich in vitamin K, which is important for bone health and heart health |
| Vitamin A | Provides 10% of the daily vitamin A recommendation per ounce |
| Phosphorus | Provides 14% of the daily phosphorus recommendation per ounce |
| Zinc | Provides 6% of the daily zinc recommendation per ounce |
| Selenium | Contains selenium |
| Riboflavin | Provides 6% of the daily riboflavin recommendation per ounce |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Cheddar cheese is high in saturated fat
Cheddar cheese is a semi-hard cheese that originated in the village of Cheddar in Somerset, England, where it was first created in the 11th or 12th century. It is one of the most popular cheeses in America, beloved for its versatility and use in comfort foods. However, it is important to note that cheddar cheese is high in saturated fat.
Cheddar cheese is made from cow's milk that has been matured for several months, and it can range in colour from white to off-white to yellow. The taste of cheddar varies from mild to extra sharp depending on the variety. While it offers several nutritional benefits, such as being a good source of calcium, vitamin K2, and protein, its high saturated fat content has raised some health concerns.
A one-ounce serving of cheddar cheese contains around 9 grams of total fat and 6 grams of saturated fat. This contributes to 14% of the daily value for total fat and 30% for saturated fat. Eating foods high in saturated fat can increase cholesterol levels and the risk of cardiovascular disease. However, new research suggests that the saturated fat in whole foods like cheese may not have the same detrimental effects on heart health as previously believed.
Despite its saturated fat content, consuming cheddar cheese in moderation may offer some health benefits. It is a good source of calcium, which is essential for bone health and can help prevent osteoporosis. Additionally, the vitamin K2 in cheddar cheese helps prevent calcium buildup in arteries and veins, potentially reducing the risk of heart disease. Furthermore, snacking on cheese instead of sugary snacks may improve dental health and reduce cavities.
While cheddar cheese is high in saturated fat, it can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. It is recommended to consume it in moderation and be mindful of portion sizes. There are also low-fat and fat-free alternatives available for those who want to reduce their saturated fat intake.
Sharp Cheese: Less Fat, More Flavor than Cheddar?
You may want to see also
It is also a good source of calcium
Cheddar cheese is a semi-hard cheese that originated in the village of Cheddar, England, in the 11th or 12th century. It is a popular option for snacking and cooking, and its flavour ranges from mild to extra sharp. Cheddar is higher in fat, calories, and sodium compared to other cheeses. However, it is also a good source of calcium, which is essential for maintaining bone health.
Calcium is one of the most important nutrients for promoting bone health. It helps to keep bones strong and also plays a role in proper muscle and nerve function. People who maintain a diet rich in calcium are less likely to develop osteoporosis, a harmful degeneration of bone density. Cheddar cheese is a good source of calcium, providing 200 milligrams (or 20% of the daily value) per ounce. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to increase their calcium intake and improve their bone health.
In addition to its calcium content, cheddar cheese also contains vitamin K, which is important for bone health and heart health. Vitamin K2, found in cheddar cheese, prevents calcium from building up in the arteries and veins, reducing the risk of heart disease. Cheddar cheese is also a good source of protein, providing 7 grams per ounce, or 14% of the daily value. This makes it a filling option that can help reduce overall calorie intake.
While cheddar cheese is high in fat and calories, it can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a healthy diet. Research suggests that consuming full-fat dairy products, such as cheddar cheese, may not have the detrimental effects on heart health as previously believed. Additionally, eating cheddar cheese in moderation may help lower cholesterol levels, especially in middle-aged adults.
Cheddar's Perfect Partners: Exploring Complimentary Cheese Flavors
You may want to see also
Cheddar is rich in vitamin K2
Cheddar cheese is a semi-hard cheese that originated in the village of Cheddar in Somerset, England, where damp, cool caves provide perfect humidity conditions for the cheese to mature. It is one of the most popular cheeses in America, featuring in many beloved comfort foods, such as quesadillas, mac and cheese, and burgers.
Cheddar is a great source of protein, with 7 grams per ounce, contributing over 30% of its calories. It is also rich in calcium, with 200mg per ounce, which is 20% of your daily value. Calcium is one of the most important nutrients for promoting bone health and preventing osteoporosis. Cheddar also contains vitamin A, phosphorus, zinc, selenium, and riboflavin.
Cheddar cheese is also a source of vitamin K2, which is a fat-soluble vitamin. Vitamin K2 has several health benefits, including improving bone density and reducing the risk of fractures. It does this by activating a protein that helps calcium bind to our bones. Studies have also shown that vitamin K2 may slow or stop cancer cell activity and improve survival rates. Vitamin K2 also plays a role in promoting dental health and preventing cavities.
Vitamin K2 content in cheese varies depending on the type of cheese, the time of ripening, the fat content, and the geographic area where it is produced. In general, hard cheeses are richer in vitamin K2 than soft cheeses, and the vitamin K2 content increases with age across all types. British Cheddar contains an average to a high amount of vitamin K2, with 235 ng/g.
Pairing Perfection: Sides to Serve with Cheddar Cheese
You may want to see also
Explore related products
It has a high vitamin and mineral content
Cheddar cheese is a semi-hard cheese that originated in the village of Cheddar, Somerset, England, in the 11th or 12th century. It is one of the most popular cheeses in America, beloved for its taste and versatility. While it is known for its high fat content, cheddar cheese also boasts a high vitamin and mineral content, offering a variety of health benefits.
Cheddar cheese is a good source of calcium, providing about 200 milligrams (20% of the daily value) per ounce. Calcium is essential for maintaining bone health, helping to prevent osteoporosis and other bone-related issues. It also plays a role in blood clotting and several other important bodily functions. Cheddar is also a good source of phosphorus, providing about 143 milligrams (14% of the daily value) per ounce. Phosphorus is necessary for kidney function and the production of DNA.
In addition to calcium and phosphorus, cheddar cheese contains small amounts of other vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, zinc, selenium, riboflavin, potassium, iron, and magnesium. Vitamin A is important for eye health, while zinc plays a crucial role in immune function and protein formation. Riboflavin, also known as vitamin B2, is involved in energy metabolism and maintaining healthy skin and vision.
Cheddar cheese also contains vitamin K2, a nutrient that helps prevent calcium buildup in arteries and veins, thereby reducing the risk of heart disease. Despite its high-fat content, consuming cheddar cheese in moderation may help lower cholesterol levels, especially in middle-aged adults. This effect is attributed to the "cheese matrix," which refers to the arrangement of proteins and calcium in cheese that offers various health benefits.
While cheddar cheese has its nutritional benefits, it is important to consume it in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Its high-fat content, particularly saturated fat, can contribute to increased cholesterol levels and the risk of cardiovascular disease if consumed in excess. However, new research suggests that the saturated fat in whole foods like cheese may not have the detrimental effects on heart health as previously believed, and further studies are needed to confirm this.
Cheese and Carbs: Jack Cheddar's Cup Secrets
You may want to see also
Cheddar cheese is calorie-dense
Despite its high-fat content, eating cheddar cheese in moderation may help lower cholesterol levels. This is especially true for middle-aged adults. In one study, participants had more success lowering their cholesterol levels by eating full-fat cheese than those who ate reduced-fat cheese or butter. This was true for both overall levels and LDL ("bad") cholesterol. Researchers attribute this to the cheese matrix, which refers to how the arrangement of proteins and calcium in cheese provides various health benefits.
Cheddar cheese is a good source of calcium, with 200mg (or 20% of the daily value) per ounce. Calcium is one of the most important nutrients for promoting bone health, and a diet rich in calcium can help prevent osteoporosis. Cheddar is also a great source of protein, with 7 grams per ounce, which is more than 30% of the cheese's calories. This macronutrient helps build muscle and is necessary for producing enzymes, giving structure to cells, maintaining fluid balance, and more.
While cheddar cheese is calorie-dense, new research suggests that removing fat from dairy products may make them more likely to cause weight gain. This phenomenon is known as the full-fat dairy paradox. Therefore, consuming full-fat cheese in moderation may be the better choice for weight management.
Cheddar Cubing: Warm or Cold?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Cheddar cheese is high in fat, with 10 grams of fat per ounce, of which 6 grams are saturated fat.
Cheddar cheese is a good source of calcium, which is important for bone health. It also contains vitamin K2, which helps to prevent calcium buildup in arteries and veins, and protein, which is necessary for muscle growth and cell structure.
Cheddar cheese is calorie-dense and should be consumed in moderation. Eating 1.5 ounces of cheddar cheese counts as one-third of the recommended daily dairy intake for adults.
Despite its saturated fat content, eating cheddar cheese in moderation may help lower cholesterol levels, especially for middle-aged adults. This may be due to the "cheese matrix", which refers to the arrangement of proteins and calcium in cheese that offers various health benefits.
Consuming too much saturated fat can increase your risk of cardiovascular disease and high LDL cholesterol. Additionally, some people are allergic to casein, a protein found in cheese, or lactose intolerant, which can trigger negative reactions.
