Frederic Melton
Arepas are a popular food item, often eaten as a healthier alternative to sandwiches for those on a gluten-free or low-sodium diet. However, the calorie count of an arepa can vary depending on its filling. A plain arepa contains 150 calories, while an arepa with cheese contains 270 calories, according to Livestrong.com. Another source suggests that an arepa with cheese can contain up to 578 calories. This variation in calorie count may be due to different portion sizes or the type of cheese used.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Calories | 578 |
| Calories in plain arepa | 416 |
| Calories difference | 162 |
| Calories in stuffed arepa | 270 |
| Saturated fat | 2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 64 g |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Iron | 9% of daily requirement |
| Calcium | 25% of daily requirement |
| Healthy alternative | Yes, if filled with healthy fillings |
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What You'll Learn
Arepas can be gluten-free and low-sodium
Arepas are a popular food item, especially for those on the street looking for a quick bite to eat. But how many calories do they contain, and can they be gluten-free and low in sodium?
First, let's look at the calories. The number of calories in an arepa depends on its preparation and fillings. A plain arepa has about 150 calories, while an arepa stuffed with cheese can have around 270 to 578 calories. The discrepancy in calorie count may be due to variations in portion sizes and the amount of cheese used.
Now, let's address the question of gluten and sodium content. Arepas can be made gluten-free and low-sodium, making them a healthier alternative to sandwiches for those with specific dietary requirements. Here's how:
The gluten-free aspect: Arepas are traditionally made with corn flour, which is naturally gluten-free. By using corn flour or a gluten-free alternative, such as Harina PAN, you can ensure your arepa is gluten-free.
The low-sodium factor: To make your arepa low in sodium, simply avoid adding salt to the dough during preparation. Additionally, opt for healthy fillings that align with your dietary needs. For example, scrambled egg whites, certain cheeses, or meats suitable for a low-sodium diet can be great choices.
It's important to remember that while arepas can be made gluten-free and low-sodium, the fillings and toppings you choose will significantly impact the overall nutritional value. Always read labels, be mindful of portion sizes, and opt for healthier alternatives when possible to ensure your arepa fits within your dietary requirements and preferences.
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A plain arepa has 416 calories
Arepas are a good source of iron and calcium. Each roll contains 1% of the iron you need daily to boost red blood cell production. A cheese-stuffed arepa provides an additional 9% of iron and 25% of the calcium your body uses to keep bones strong and healthy.
The calorie count of an arepa with cheese will depend on the size of the arepa and the amount of cheese used. The nutritional value of an arepa will also depend on the other ingredients used in its preparation.
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A cheese arepa has 578 calories
Arepas are a popular food item, often sold by street vendors and enjoyed by many. They can be a part of a healthy diet, especially for those on a gluten-free or low-sodium diet, as long as they are filled with healthy ingredients. For instance, scrambled egg whites and certain cheeses or meats can be good filling options.
The nutritional value of a cheese arepa should also be considered. While a cheese arepa does contribute to your daily calorie intake, it also provides other benefits. For example, a cheese arepa can increase your daily iron intake by 9%. Additionally, the calcium obtained from eating a cheese arepa contributes to maintaining strong, dense, and healthy bones.
However, it is important to be mindful of the saturated fat content in arepas, as both stuffed and plain arepas contain this unhealthy type of fat. Saturated fat can contribute to heart disease and may negatively impact the body's ability to heal, as suggested by a study published in the British Journal of Nutrition. Therefore, while enjoying a delicious cheese arepa, it is essential to consume it in moderation and ensure it is balanced with other nutritious foods.
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A cheese arepa has 64g of carbs
A cheese arepa contains 64 grams of carbohydrates. This traditional preparation of arepa is a popular street food, often sold without labels, making it difficult to estimate the exact calorie count. However, a cheese arepa typically contains around 270 calories, which is a considerable increase from the 150 calories in a plain arepa.
The calorie count of a cheese arepa can vary depending on the size and specific ingredients used. For example, adding extra butter or using different types of cheese can increase the calorie content. It's important to note that the calorie estimates provided may not be precise due to the lack of standardized serving sizes and variations in preparation methods.
Arepas are a versatile food that can be filled with various ingredients. When choosing fillings, it's essential to consider their nutritional value. For those on a gluten-free or low-sodium diet, an arepa can be a healthier alternative to a sandwich if filled with healthy options like scrambled egg whites, cheeses, or meats that align with dietary restrictions.
The type of flour and preparation method can also impact the nutritional content of arepas. For example, using Harina PAN flour or preparing the dough without adding salt can be suitable for specific dietary needs. Additionally, the size of the arepa plays a role in its nutritional value, as larger arepas will generally have higher calorie and nutrient counts.
While a cheese arepa provides a good source of calcium and increases the mineral content of the dish, it's important to be mindful of the saturated fat content. Arepas, whether stuffed or plain, contain 2 grams of saturated fat, which is associated with an increased risk of heart disease. Therefore, while enjoying a delicious cheese arepa with its 64 grams of carbohydrates, it's crucial to practice moderation and ensure a balanced diet.
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A cheese arepa has 15g of protein
Arepas are a popular food item, often eaten as a gluten-free alternative to sandwiches. They can be filled with a variety of ingredients, such as cheese, scrambled egg whites, and meats. The calorie count of an arepa depends on its fillings. A plain arepa has about 150 calories, while a cheese arepa has 270 calories.
A cheese arepa has 15 grams of protein. This is a significant amount, as protein is an essential macronutrient that helps our bodies repair cells and create new ones. It is also a good source of calcium, providing 25% of the calcium our bodies need to maintain strong, dense, and healthy bones.
The calorie count of a cheese arepa can vary depending on the type of cheese used and the amount of cheese added. Different types of cheese have different calorie contents, so the choice of cheese can significantly impact the overall calorie count of the dish. For example, a shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese has about 85 calories per 28 grams, while a shredded cheddar cheese has about 115 calories per 28 grams.
In addition to protein and calcium, a cheese arepa also provides other nutritional benefits. It contains iron, which boosts the production of red blood cells. The amount of iron increases when the arepa is stuffed with cheese. A cheese arepa also has a higher carbohydrate content than a plain arepa, providing 64 grams of carbohydrates.
It is worth noting that arepas, especially when stuffed with cheese, contain saturated fat. This type of fat is considered unhealthy as it can contribute to heart disease and affect the body's ability to heal wounds. However, by controlling the portion size and choosing healthier fillings, an arepa can be a nutritious and enjoyable part of a balanced diet.
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Frequently asked questions
A plain arepa contains 150 calories, while an arepa with cheese contains 270 calories. This means that an arepa with cheese has 120 more calories than a plain arepa.
If you are on a gluten-free or low-sodium diet, an arepa can be a healthier alternative to a sandwich as long as you fill it with healthy fillings. For a low-sodium diet, do not add salt to the dough mix. You can fill your arepa with scrambled egg whites, cheeses, or meats that fit your diet.
An arepa with cheese contains 64g of carbohydrates, 15g of protein, 9% of your daily iron intake, and 25% of the calcium your body needs to keep your bones strong and healthy.
You can use arepa dough to make empanadas, tortillas, hallaquitas, and tamales.
