Patrick Oconnell
Cheese is a beloved dairy product enjoyed by many, but it is important to be mindful of the calories it contains. A quarter cup of shredded cheddar cheese contains 110 calories, with a macronutrient breakdown of 7% carbs, 69% fat, and 24% protein. This is a good source of calcium, providing 20% of your daily value. While counting calories is important for some, it is also crucial to maintain a healthy relationship with food and not let calorie counting take over your life.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Calories | 110 |
| Macronutrient Breakdown | 7% carbs, 69% fat, 24% protein |
| Daily Value of Calcium | 20% |
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What You'll Learn
Calories in 1/4 cup of sharp cheddar cheese: 110
There are 110 calories in 1/4 cup of sharp cheddar cheese. This calorie count may vary depending on the brand of cheese. For example, 1/4 cup of Kraft shredded cheddar cheese contains 110 calories, while the same quantity of Sargento shredded cheddar cheese has the same calorie count.
When it comes to the macronutrient breakdown, 7% comes from carbs, 69% from fat, and 24% from protein. This means that sharp cheddar cheese is a relatively high-fat food option. However, it also provides a good amount of protein, which can be beneficial for those looking to increase their protein intake.
In terms of micronutrients, sharp cheddar cheese stands out for its calcium content. A 1/4 cup serving provides 20% of the Daily Value recommended for calcium intake. Calcium is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth, as well as supporting various bodily functions, including muscle contraction and nerve signaling.
While 110 calories may not seem like a significant amount, it is important to consider the context of your overall diet and daily calorie needs. For those aiming for a calorie deficit to lose weight, counting calories can be helpful, but it should not become an obsession. Enjoyment of food and a healthy relationship with eating are also important factors to consider.
In conclusion, understanding the calorie content and nutritional value of sharp cheddar cheese can be useful for those monitoring their intake. With 110 calories per 1/4 cup, it can be a source of protein and calcium as part of a balanced diet. However, as with all foods, moderation and a holistic view of nutrition are key to maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
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Carbohydrates: 7%
A 1/4 cup serving of shredded cheddar cheese contains 110 calories. Of these 110 calories, 7% are derived from carbohydrates. This equates to around 7.7 calories from carbohydrates.
Carbohydrates are one of three macronutrients, the other two being protein and fat. The body breaks down carbohydrates into glucose, which is then used as energy for bodily functions and physical activity. Any remaining glucose is stored as glycogen in the liver and muscles, ready to be used when needed.
The recommended daily intake of carbohydrates is 45-65% of total daily calories. This varies depending on a person's age, weight, height, and activity levels. For example, a highly active person may require a higher percentage of carbohydrates to fuel their physical activity.
Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body and are essential for proper organ function. They are found in a wide variety of foods, including grains, fruits, vegetables, milk, and yogurt.
When considering the calorie contribution of carbohydrates in a 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, it is important to note that the majority of calories come from fat and protein. In this case, 69% of calories come from fat, and 24% come from protein. This highlights the nutrient-dense nature of cheese, which is a good source of calcium, protein, and fat.
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Fats: 69%
A 1/4 cup serving of shredded cheddar cheese contains 110 calories, 69% of which are derived from fats. This equates to approximately 75.11 calories coming from fat.
Fats are a crucial component of a balanced diet and are essential for various bodily functions. They provide a concentrated source of energy, with each gram of fat yielding 9 calories, compared to the 4 calories provided by proteins and carbohydrates. This makes them an efficient way to fuel the body.
The type of fat is an important consideration. The fats in cheddar cheese are predominantly saturated fats, which have been linked to increased levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. High levels of LDL cholesterol can lead to a buildup of plaque in the arteries, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease. Therefore, while fats are essential, it is important to consume them in moderation and be mindful of the type of fat.
The fat content in cheddar cheese also contributes to its taste and texture. Cheese is known for its creamy, rich mouthfeel, which is largely due to its fat content. The fats also carry flavour compounds, enhancing the overall taste experience.
In summary, while fats contribute significantly to the calorie count of shredded cheddar cheese, they play an important role in both nutritional value and sensory experience. However, due to the potential health implications of excess saturated fat consumption, it is advisable to consume cheese in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
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Protein: 24%
A 1/4 cup serving of sharp cheddar cheese is not only a good source of calcium but also provides a substantial amount of protein. In fact, protein makes up 24% of the calories in this serving of cheese. This equates to approximately 7.7 grams of protein, given that a 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese contains 110 calories.
Protein is an essential part of a healthy diet, as it is a nutrient that the body needs to grow and repair cells, as well as to function properly. Every cell in the human body contains protein, which is made up of chemical "building blocks" called amino acids. These amino acids are used by the body to build and repair muscles and bones, as well as to produce hormones and enzymes. They can also serve as an energy source.
Amino acids can be sourced from both animal and plant-based foods. Animal sources include meats, milk, fish, and eggs, while plant sources include soy, beans, legumes, nut butters, and certain grains such as wheat germ and quinoa. It is worth noting that the body's amino acid requirements can be met through a varied diet without the need for animal products.
The recommended daily protein intake varies depending on factors such as weight, gender, and age, and overall calorie needs. For healthy adults, it is generally suggested that protein should make up 10% to 35% of total calorie intake. This means that for an individual on a 2000-calorie diet, up to 400 of those calories can come from protein, which is equivalent to 100 grams of protein-rich food.
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Calcium: 20% of daily value
A 1/4 cup serving of shredded cheddar cheese contains 110 calories. This portion provides 20% of the daily recommended value of calcium. Calcium is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in maintaining bone health and supporting nerve and muscle function.
Calcium is particularly important for bone health throughout life. During childhood and adolescence, adequate calcium intake promotes optimal bone growth and development, helping to build strong and dense bones. In adulthood, calcium continues to be vital for maintaining bone strength and preventing conditions like osteoporosis, which is characterised by low bone density and an increased risk of fractures.
In addition to its role in bone health, calcium is also essential for nerve signalling and muscle contraction. It helps to regulate the transmission of signals between nerves, enabling proper communication throughout the body. Calcium is also involved in muscle contraction, including the heart muscle, contributing to regular heart rhythm and efficient circulation.
The daily recommended intake of calcium varies depending on age and other factors. On average, adults require approximately 1000-1200 mg of calcium per day. However, this amount may differ for individuals based on factors such as age, sex, and physiological state (e.g., pregnancy or lactation). For example, adolescents experiencing a growth spurt may require higher amounts of calcium to support bone development.
Including calcium-rich foods like cheddar cheese in your diet can help ensure you meet your daily calcium needs. However, it is important to note that calcium requirements should ideally be met primarily through a balanced diet that includes a variety of calcium sources. Other good sources of calcium include dairy products like milk and yoghurt, dark leafy greens, tofu, and calcium-fortified foods.
In summary, a 1/4 cup serving of shredded cheddar cheese provides 20% of the daily value of calcium. Calcium is essential for maintaining bone health, supporting nerve function, and facilitating muscle contraction. While shredded cheddar cheese can contribute to your daily calcium intake, it should be consumed as part of a balanced diet that includes a variety of calcium-rich foods.
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Frequently asked questions
There are approximately 110 calories in 1/4 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
The macronutrient breakdown of these calories is 7% carbs, 69% fat, and 24% protein.
Yes, sharp cheddar cheese is a good source of calcium, providing about 20% of your Daily Value.
Cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, which can support muscle health and bone strength, respectively. However, it's important to enjoy cheese as part of a balanced diet and not to focus solely on calorie counting.
