Bushra Griffith
Cheese is a versatile and popular food that is generally low in carbohydrates, making it a favorite for many people following a low-carb diet. However, the carbohydrate content varies significantly among different types of cheese, with some being higher in carbs than others. For example, goat cheese and blue cheese are very low in carbs, while cottage cheese and American cheese have a higher carbohydrate content. So, how many carbohydrates are in a cup of cheese, and which types of cheese are best for those watching their carb intake?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Carbohydrates in a cup of 2% cottage cheese | 9.48 g |
| Carbohydrates in a cup of 1% cottage cheese | 6.1 g |
| Carbohydrates in a slice of American cheese | 1-2 g |
| Carbohydrates in a slice of blue cheese | 0.5 g |
| Carbohydrates in a tablespoon of grated parmesan cheese | 0.7 g |
| Carbohydrates in an ounce of goat cheese | 0.3 g |
| Carbohydrates in an ounce of cheddar cheese | 1 g |
| Carbohydrates in an ounce of gouda cheese | 0.6 g |
| Carbohydrates in an ounce of brie cheese | 0.1 g |
| Carbohydrates in an ounce of camembert cheese | 0.1 g |
| Carbohydrates in an ounce of feta cheese | 1.2 g |
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What You'll Learn
Carbohydrates in cottage cheese
Cottage cheese is a soft, fresh, and versatile cheese with a creamy taste and a hearty texture. It is made of milk, salt, and acid. It is a good source of high-quality protein, which is vital for building, repairing, and restoring muscle tissues, and for strengthening and protecting bones. It is also a good source of calcium, vitamin D, phosphorus, potassium, and magnesium, which promote bone health.
Cottage cheese is higher in carbohydrates than many other types of cheese, with around 3-4 grams of carbohydrates per half-cup serving (113 grams). A 1-cup serving of 2% cottage cheese contains 7.2 grams of total carbs and 7.2 grams of net carbs. A half-cup serving of low-fat (2%) plain cottage cheese contains around 5 grams of carbohydrates.
Despite its higher carb content, cottage cheese is popular among health-conscious individuals due to its high protein content and versatility. It is also a good option for those looking to increase their protein intake while managing their carb consumption. It is a good choice for people who need to monitor their blood sugar, as it has a modest amount of carbohydrates per serving and no added sugar.
Cottage cheese is not considered a keto-friendly food due to its relatively high carbohydrate content. However, it can still be incorporated into keto meals in moderation. For example, it can be used to make pancakes, stuffed bell peppers, or a refreshing avocado salad.
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Carbohydrates in American cheese
American cheese is a processed cheese product made from several types of cheese and other ingredients. It is commonly sold in the form of solid blocks, shredded cheese, cubes, spread, or individually wrapped slices. A single slice of American cheese, weighing about 20.6 grams, contains around 1-2 grams of carbohydrates. This equates to about 1 gram of carbohydrates per 1-ounce (28-gram) serving.
The exact carbohydrate content can vary between brands, so it is always recommended to check the nutrition label. American cheese is considered a low-carb food, but it is important to note that it is also high in sodium and unsaturated fats. A slice of American cheese contains about 9 grams of fat, with 5 grams coming from saturated fats, which is 25% of the recommended daily value.
Compared to other cheeses, American cheese has a higher carbohydrate content due to added ingredients and processing methods. For example, goat cheese contains virtually zero carbohydrates, while blue cheese has 0.5 grams of carbohydrates per slice, and Parmesan cheese has 0.7 grams of carbohydrates per grated tablespoon. Other low-carb cheese options include Cheddar, with 0.4-1 grams of carbs per ounce, Gouda with 0.6 grams, and Brie and Camembert, both with approximately 0.1 grams of carbs per ounce.
American cheese also offers some nutritional benefits. It is a good source of calcium, providing 178 milligrams per slice, which is 17% of the recommended daily allowance. It is also a source of phosphorus, vitamin D, and protein. The proteins in American cheese include casein and whey, which provide all nine essential amino acids that are necessary for several important body processes.
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Low-carb cheese options
Cheese is a beloved food worldwide, but not all cheeses are created equal when it comes to carbohydrate content. Some cheeses are naturally low in carbs, making them excellent choices for low-carb diets. Here are some specific cheese types and their carbohydrate content, as well as some tips for incorporating cheese into a low-carb lifestyle:
Goat Cheese
Goat cheese is a great option for those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet. It typically contains only about 0.3 grams of carbohydrates per ounce, and it offers a unique tangy flavor as well as a good amount of protein and healthy fats. Goat cheese is also easier to digest for those with sensitivities to cow's milk products.
Blue Cheese
Blue cheese is another flavorful and low-carb option. One slice (21 grams) typically contains 0.5 grams of carbohydrates, 6 grams of fat, 4.5 grams of protein, and 74 calories. It's a keto favorite and can be enjoyed as a snack or as a topping on dishes.
Parmesan Cheese
Grated Parmesan cheese is a decent low-carb option, with only about 0.7 to 1.4 grams of carbohydrates per tablespoon. It adds a salty, nutty flavor to dishes and is perfect for sprinkling on salads.
Cream Cheese
Cream cheese is a versatile option for low-carb diets, with 1 ounce containing 1 gram of carbohydrates. It can be used in both sweet and savory dishes, and it's also a good source of protein.
Cheddar Cheese
Natural cheddar cheese is another good choice for low-carb eaters, with only about 0.4 to 1 gram of carbohydrates per ounce, depending on the source.
Other Low-Carb Options
Other cheese varieties that are relatively low in carbohydrates include Gouda, Brie, Camembert, Feta, and Muenster. These cheeses typically have less than 1.2 grams of carbohydrates per ounce.
Tips for Incorporating Cheese into a Low-Carb Lifestyle:
- Choose low-carb cheese options like goat cheese, feta, Parmesan, and Swiss cheese, and limit higher-carb varieties like cottage cheese and ricotta.
- Practice portion control by using the plate method: fill half your plate with non-starchy vegetables, and divide the remaining half into whole grains and lean protein.
- Be mindful of high-carb snacks, and opt for low-carb alternatives like fruit, vegetables, boiled eggs, or cheese sticks.
- Check the nutrition labels on cheese products to make informed choices, as carbohydrate content can vary between brands.
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Carbohydrates in goat cheese
Goat cheese, also known as chèvre, is a nutritious dairy product made from goat's milk. It has a creamy, distinct flavour and is packed with vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. It is also a good source of protein.
Goat cheese is a good option for those looking to reduce their carbohydrate intake as it is typically low in carbs. A one-ounce (28-gram) serving of goat cheese contains about 0.3 grams of carbohydrates. This makes it an excellent choice for those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet.
The carbohydrate content of goat cheese can vary slightly depending on the processing method used, such as aging or curing. For example, softer cheeses tend to have higher lactose content than hard, aged cheeses. However, even with these variations, goat cheese generally contains very few carbohydrates.
In comparison to other cheeses, goat cheese has a lower carbohydrate content. For example, a one-ounce serving of cheddar cheese contains 1 gram of carbohydrates, while cottage cheese contains about 3-4 grams of carbohydrates per half-cup serving.
Goat cheese is not only low in carbs but also has other health benefits. It is easier to digest for those with sensitivities to cow's milk products due to its different protein structure and lower lactose content. Goat cheese is also a hypoallergenic alternative for those allergic to cow's milk cheese.
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Carbohydrates in cheddar cheese
Cheddar cheese is a popular variety of cheese that is often aged and purchased all year round. It is a hard cheese with a low lactose content, making it a good option for lactose-intolerant individuals.
When it comes to carbohydrates, cheddar cheese is considered a low-carb option. Natural cheddar cheese contains 1 gram of total carbohydrates per ounce (28 grams), with 1 gram of net carbs. This equates to approximately 0.4 grams of carbs per gram of cheese, making it a good choice for those watching their carb intake.
Sharp cheddar cheese, a variety of cheddar with a stronger flavour, has even fewer carbohydrates. A cracker-size slice of sharp cheddar contains only 0.1 grams of total and net carbs, along with 2.3 grams of fat and 1.7 grams of protein.
Compared to other types of cheese, cheddar falls on the lower end of the carbohydrate spectrum. For example, cottage cheese has a higher lactose content and can contain up to 9.48 grams of carbs per cup (2% cottage cheese). American cheese, a processed variety, typically has 1-2 grams of carbs per ounce, and spray cheese in a can tends to be even higher in carbohydrates due to added ingredients.
Overall, cheddar cheese is a good choice for those looking for a tasty, low-carb snack or ingredient. It pairs well with many dishes and can be a part of a healthy diet when consumed in moderation.
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Frequently asked questions
The amount of carbohydrates in a cup of cheese depends on the type of cheese. For example, a cup of 2% cottage cheese contains 9.48 g of carbs, while a cup of 1% cottage cheese contains 6.1 g of carbs.
Many cheeses are naturally low in carbohydrates, including goat cheese, feta, Parmesan, Swiss, cheddar, Gouda, Brie, and Camembert. These cheeses can be good choices for low-carb diets.
Cottage cheese is higher in carbohydrates compared to other cheeses due to its higher lactose content. American cheese, which is often processed, also contains a higher amount of carbs, with about 1-2 grams of carbs per ounce.
