Randy Chandler
Enchiladas are a popular dish in Mexican cuisine and are loved by people all over the world. They are made by rolling a tortilla filled with cheese, vegetables, or meat and covering it with a savoury sauce. But how many calories are in a single cheese enchilada?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 |
| Macronutrient Breakdown | 47% carbs, 37% fat, 16% protein |
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What You'll Learn
Calories in one cheese enchillada: 220
A single cheese enchilada contains approximately 220 calories. This calorie count assumes that the enchilada in question is a single enchilada from H-E-B, a popular grocery store chain.
The calorie content of a cheese enchillada can vary depending on the specific ingredients used and the size of the serving. However, on average, a single cheese enchilada typically falls within the range of 200 to 300 calories.
The breakdown of macronutrients in a 220-calorie cheese enchilada is approximately 47% carbohydrates, 37% fat, and 16% protein. This means that out of the 220 total calories, about 103 calories come from carbohydrates, 81 calories come from fat, and 35 calories come from protein.
Understanding the macronutrient distribution of a meal can be helpful for those aiming to follow a specific diet or track their nutritional intake. For example, a person aiming to reduce their fat intake may opt for a dish with a lower percentage of calories from fat.
It's important to note that the calorie content and macronutrient distribution provided here is specific to the H-E-B cheese enchilada and may not be representative of all cheese enchiladas. The calories in a cheese enchilada can vary depending on the recipe, the amount of cheese used, and the presence of additional ingredients such as meat or vegetables.
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Carbohydrate content: 47%
A single cheese enchilada contains 220 calories, 47% of which are derived from carbohydrates. This equates to around 103.4 calories coming from carbohydrates.
Carbohydrates are one of three macronutrients essential to our diet, 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.
The recommended daily intake of carbohydrates for an adult is between 45 and 65 percent of total daily calories. This varies depending on a person's age, weight, metabolism, and activity level. For example, a highly active individual might require a higher percentage of carbohydrates to fuel their physical activity.
Enchiladas are made with corn or flour tortillas, both of which are sources of carbohydrates. The type of tortilla used, as well as the filling and cooking method, can affect the overall carbohydrate content of the dish.
When considering the carbohydrate content of a cheese enchilada, it's important to note that this value may vary depending on the specific ingredients and preparation methods used. The presence of other ingredients, such as beans, rice, or vegetables, can also contribute to the overall carbohydrate count.
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Fat content: 37%
A single cheese enchilada contains 220 calories, 47% of which come from carbohydrates, 37% from fat, and 16% from protein. This means that approximately 81.4 calories in a single cheese enchilada come from fat.
Fat is a crucial macronutrient that serves various functions in the body. It is a rich source of energy, providing 9 calories per gram, more than twice the amount provided by carbohydrates or protein (4 calories per gram). Fats play a vital role in the absorption of certain vitamins, known as fat-soluble vitamins, including vitamins A, D, E, and K. These vitamins require fat for proper absorption and utilization in the body.
The type of fat consumed is essential for overall health. There are several types of dietary fats, including saturated, unsaturated, and trans fats. Saturated fats are typically solid at room temperature and are found in animal products like fatty meats, butter, and cheese. Unsaturated fats are usually liquid at room temperature and are prevalent in plant-based oils, nuts, and seeds. Trans fats, also known as partially hydrogenated oils, are created through an industrial process and are often used in fried foods and baked goods to enhance flavor and extend shelf life.
Consuming a diet rich in healthy unsaturated fats, such as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, can provide numerous health benefits. These fats can help lower the risk of heart disease, improve brain function, and reduce inflammation in the body. However, excessive consumption of saturated and trans fats can have negative health consequences. High intake of saturated fats has been linked to elevated low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels, which can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Therefore, it is recommended to limit the consumption of saturated and trans fats and prioritize unsaturated fats in the diet.
When consuming cheese enchiladas or any other dish, it is essential to consider the overall fat content and the type of fat included. While fat is an essential part of a balanced diet, it should be consumed in moderation and in a way that prioritizes healthier options, such as unsaturated fats. This awareness can help promote a healthier relationship with food and ensure that nutritional requirements are adequately met.
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Protein content: 16%
A single cheese enchilada contains 220 calories. Of these calories, 16% are derived from protein. This equates to 35.2 calories coming from protein. As protein contains 4 calories per gram, this means that a single cheese enchilada contains 8.8 grams of protein.
Protein is an essential macronutrient, critical for growth and repair in the human body. It is used to build important tissues and molecules, such as muscles, skin, enzymes and hormones. Enchiladas, being a dish containing beans, cheese, and meat, are a good source of protein.
The recommended daily intake of protein is around 46 grams for women and 56 grams for men. Thus, a single cheese enchilada provides a substantial amount of protein towards this daily goal.
It is important to note that the protein content of an enchilada can vary depending on the specific ingredients and cooking methods used. For example, enchiladas made with leaner meats or low-fat cheeses may have a slightly lower protein content.
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Calories in other types of enchiladas
Enchiladas come in many varieties, and their nutritional content can vary widely depending on the ingredients used. For example, a single cheese enchilada from H-E-B contains 220 calories, with a macronutrient breakdown of 47% carbs, 37% fat, and 16% protein. Enchiladas with different fillings will have different calorie contents.
Chicken enchiladas are a popular alternative to cheese enchiladas and are often served with rice and beans. While the exact calorie count will depend on the specific ingredients and portion sizes, one estimate places the calorie count for three chicken enchiladas with sides at around 950 calories, with 350 calories attributed to the enchiladas themselves.
The type of salsa used in enchiladas can also influence their nutritional value. All enchilada salsas are rich in antioxidants and fiber, but the specific type of salsa can vary in its antioxidant content. For example, mole sauces are high in phenolic compounds, while red enchilada sauces made with tomatoes are loaded with lycopene and vitamin C.
The choice of protein in enchiladas can also significantly impact their calorie and nutritional content. Animal proteins like beef tend to be higher in saturated fat, which can negatively affect heart health. Lean animal proteins, such as white meat chicken, or plant-based proteins like beans, are lower in saturated fat and therefore better for maintaining healthy cholesterol levels.
In conclusion, while it is challenging to provide a definitive calorie count for all types of enchiladas due to their customizable nature, it is important to note that the choice of fillings, salsas, and proteins can significantly impact their nutritional value and calorie content.
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Frequently asked questions
There are 220 calories in one cheese enchilada.
The macronutrient breakdown is 47% carbs, 37% fat, and 16% protein.
Unfortunately, that is all the information available from this source.
The source does not specify, but typically enchiladas can be made with various fillings and ingredients, which may alter the calorie count.
