Kamil Perry
Cheddar cheese is a tasty treat, but how many calories does it contain? Cheddar is a good source of nutrients, offering benefits for your bones, digestion, mental health, and sleep patterns. However, it is also high in fat. How does the calorie count differ when opting for a lighter version of this cheese?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Calories in 1 slice | 70 |
| Macronutrient breakdown | 21% carbs, 79% fat, 0% protein |
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What You'll Learn
Calories in one slice: 70
Calories in a slice of cheddar cheese vary depending on the type of cheddar cheese. For example, a slice of Black Diamond light cheddar cheese contains 70 calories. The macronutrient breakdown of these calories is 21% carbs, 79% fat, and 0% protein. This means that out of the 70 calories, 14.7 calories come from carbohydrates and 55.3 calories come from fat.
When it comes to nutrition, it's important to remember that not all calories are created equal. The quality and source of calories can significantly impact their effect on the body. For example, the body processes calories from carbohydrates, proteins, and fats differently. Additionally, the overall nutritional value of a food item depends on various other factors, including its vitamin, mineral, and fibre content.
In the context of light cheddar cheese, the calorie count of 70 per slice is relatively low compared to other types of cheese. This makes it a good option for those conscious of their calorie intake. However, it's worth noting that the fat content is relatively high, with nearly 80% of the calories coming from fat. While fat is an essential part of a balanced diet, it's important to consume it in moderation.
It's always recommended to consume cheese and other dairy products in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Cheese can be a good source of calcium, protein, and other essential nutrients, but it can also be high in saturated fat and sodium. As such, it's important to be mindful of portion sizes and to prioritize a diverse range of foods to ensure adequate nutrition and maintain overall health.
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Carbohydrate content: 21% carbs
One slice of Black Diamond light cheddar cheese contains 70 calories. The macronutrient breakdown includes 21% carbohydrates, which works out to be about 14.7 calories from carbohydrates per slice.
Carbohydrates are one of three macronutrients, the other two being protein and fat. Carbohydrates are essential for human health because they provide the body with energy, particularly glucose, which is the primary source of fuel for the body's cells, tissues, and organs.
There are two types of carbohydrates: simple and complex. Simple carbohydrates are found in foods such as fruits, milk, and table sugar, while complex carbohydrates are found in foods such as starchy vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.
The recommended daily intake of carbohydrates for an average adult is 45-65% of total calories consumed. This means that for a person consuming 2000 calories per day, the recommended daily intake of carbohydrates would be between 225 and 325 grams.
While light cheddar cheese does contain some carbohydrates, it is important to note that it is not a significant source of this macronutrient. Most of the calories in light cheddar cheese come from fat, which can be beneficial in moderation but should be consumed in conjunction with a balanced diet that includes other nutrient-dense foods.
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Fat content: 79% fat
A slice of Black Diamond light cheddar cheese contains 70 calories. The macronutrient breakdown of this cheese is 21% carbohydrates, 79% fat, and 0% protein. This means that out of those 70 calories, 55.3 are derived from fat.
Fat is a crucial component of a healthy diet, as it provides the body with energy and helps it absorb vitamins. It is also essential for maintaining healthy skin, producing hormones, and supporting cell growth. However, it is important to note that not all fats are equal. There are different types of fats, including saturated, unsaturated, and trans fats, each with distinct effects on the body.
Saturated fats, primarily found in animal products like meat and dairy, can increase low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels in the blood, known as "bad" cholesterol. High LDL cholesterol levels are associated with an increased risk of heart disease and other cardiovascular problems. Therefore, it is generally recommended to limit the consumption of saturated fats and prioritize unsaturated fats, found in plant-based sources like avocados, nuts, and olive oil.
On the other hand, unsaturated fats can help lower LDL cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. They are known as "good" fats and are essential for maintaining a healthy balance of cholesterol in the body. Polyunsaturated fats, a type of unsaturated fat, are particularly beneficial as they include omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties and are good for brain and heart health.
Trans fats, often found in processed foods, are considered the least healthy. They are created through an industrial process that adds hydrogen to vegetable oil, making them more solid and less likely to spoil. Trans fats can significantly increase LDL cholesterol levels while decreasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, or "good" cholesterol, levels. This double impact on cholesterol makes trans fats particularly harmful to heart health, and it is recommended to minimize their consumption as much as possible.
While the fat content in light cheddar cheese is relatively high, at 79%, it is important to consider the overall amount of cheese consumed and the context of one's entire diet. Moderation is key, and enjoying cheese in moderation as part of a balanced diet that includes a variety of whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats, can be a delicious and nutritious choice.
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Protein content: 0% protein
A single slice of Black Diamond light cheddar cheese contains 70 calories. However, it is important to note that this type of cheese has a macronutrient breakdown of 0% protein. This means that despite its calorie content, light cheddar cheese does not contribute directly to an individual's protein intake or the associated benefits of protein consumption.
Protein is an essential macronutrient that plays a crucial role in various bodily functions. It is made up of amino acids, often referred to as the "building blocks" of our bodies. Protein is vital for the growth and repair of tissues, the production of enzymes and hormones, and the maintenance of fluid balance, among other important physiological processes.
By contrast, light cheddar cheese is composed predominantly of carbohydrates and fat. Carbohydrates provide the body with energy, while fat contributes to the absorption of certain vitamins and the maintenance of cell structure. Nevertheless, the absence of protein in light cheddar cheese suggests that it should be paired with other protein-rich foods to ensure a balanced diet.
A balanced diet typically includes a variety of protein sources, such as lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy, legumes, nuts, and seeds. These foods provide the body with the essential amino acids required for optimal health. In contrast, a diet deficient in protein can lead to muscle loss, weakened immunity, and impaired hormone regulation.
In summary, while light cheddar cheese contributes calories and other essential nutrients, its lack of protein content underscores the importance of incorporating diverse food sources to meet the body's protein requirements and promote overall health and well-being.
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Health benefits: Cheddar is good for bones, digestion, mental health, and sleep
A single slice of light cheddar cheese contains 70 calories, with a macronutrient breakdown of 21% carbs, 79% fat, and 0% protein. Despite its saturated fat content, eating light cheddar cheese in moderation has various health benefits.
Firstly, consuming cheddar cheese can improve bone strength. Cheddar is a good source of calcium, which is essential for promoting bone health and reducing the risk of osteoporosis. The vitamin K in cheddar cheese also contributes to healthy bones.
Secondly, cheddar cheese can promote better digestion. While some individuals may experience lactose intolerance symptoms such as bloating, flatulence, and diarrhea, others find that cheese is rich in probiotics, aiding in gut health and overall digestion.
Thirdly, cheddar cheese may have positive effects on mental health. The presence of probiotics in cheese supports a range of mental health benefits, and the emotional boost from consuming cheese is well-documented.
Lastly, light cheddar cheese can help improve sleep. Cheddar contains tryptophan, an amino acid that aids in the production of melatonin, which induces drowsiness. Snacking on a few small pieces of cheddar cheese in the evening may help you fall asleep more easily.
In summary, when consumed in moderation, light cheddar cheese offers various health benefits, including improved bone strength, digestion, mental health, and sleep quality.
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Frequently asked questions
A slice of light cheddar cheese contains 70 calories.
The macronutrient breakdown is 21% carbs, 79% fat, and 0% protein.
Yes, cheddar cheese is a good source of nutrients that support bone health, digestion, mental health, and sleep patterns.
