Patrick Oconnell
American cheese is a popular variety of sliced cheese, but is it carb-free? While it is a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, it is also high in calories, fat, and sodium. So, when it comes to carbohydrates, how does American cheese measure up? Let's delve into the nutritional details of this beloved cheese to find out if it's a carb-friendly choice.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Carbohydrates | 0.5-2.4g per ounce |
| Calories | 65-104 per slice |
| Fat | 5-9g per slice |
| Protein | 3-5.6g per ounce |
| Vitamins | A, D |
| Minerals | Phosphorus, Calcium, Zinc |
| Sodium | High content |
| Cholesterol | High content |
| Saturated Fat | High content |
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What You'll Learn
Processed American cheese typically has fewer carbs
American cheese is a low-carb, high-protein, and high-fat food product. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A and D, phosphorus, calcium, and zinc. However, it is also high in saturated fat, cholesterol, and sodium, which can increase the risk of heart disease and high blood pressure.
The nutritional value of American cheese can vary depending on the brand and the specific product. For example, some brands of American cheese slices have zero carbs, while others have 2 grams of carbs per slice. The type of cheese used in the product can also affect the carb content. For example, a slice of sharp cheddar cheese has 0.4 grams of carbs, while a slice of American cheese has 2 grams of carbs.
The processing of American cheese also affects its nutritional value. As a processed product, American cheese has a longer shelf life than natural cheeses. It also has a higher fat content and lower protein content compared to other cheeses, such as Swiss and Cheddar.
When considering the inclusion of American cheese in a healthy diet, it is important to weigh the benefits and drawbacks. While it is a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, it is also high in saturated fat, cholesterol, and sodium, which can have negative impacts on health. Additionally, it is a high-calorie food, so it should be consumed in moderation.
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White American cheese has 0.5g of carbs
American cheese is a low-carb, high-protein, and high-fat cheese variety. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A and D, phosphorus, calcium, and zinc. While it is a popular choice for those on a keto diet, it is also highly processed and contains high levels of sodium, cholesterol, and saturated fat, which can increase the risk of heart disease.
White American cheese, specifically, contains 0.5 grams of carbohydrates per slice. This information is based on the nutrition facts for Kraft brand white American cheese slices, which are 19 grams each. The regular variety of Kraft American cheese has 2 grams of carbohydrates per slice, while the deluxe variety has zero carbs.
The carb content of American cheese can vary depending on the brand and type. For example, processed American cheese has 1.4 grams of total carbs per ounce, while unprocessed American cheese has 2.4 grams of total carbs per ounce. Additionally, some varieties of American cheese may have slightly higher carb counts, such as those with larger serving sizes or those that are highly processed.
When choosing a cheese to consume as part of a keto diet, it is important to consider the carb content and opt for less-processed varieties whenever possible. While American cheese can be a convenient and tasty option, there are other types of cheese, such as sharp cheddar, that offer lower carb counts and may be more suitable for those watching their carb intake.
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Kraft Deli Deluxe American cheese has <1g of net carbs
While American cheese is not entirely carb-free, it is generally low in carbs. The carb content of American cheese varies depending on the brand and variety. For example, according to one source, American Cheese (1 oz) contains 2.4 g of total carbs. However, some varieties of Kraft American cheese have lower carb content.
Kraft Deli Deluxe American cheese, in particular, has <1 g of net carbs per serving, according to the product's nutrition facts. This information is also corroborated by a user on Reddit, who commented that the product has "delicious" melting qualities. Another user on Reddit mentioned that Kraft Deli Deluxe American cheese is indeed "cheese" and not a "cheese product," referring to the fact that it is not a synthetic creation, but rather a pasteurized-process cheese product, which falls outside the legal definition of "cheese."
The low carb content of Kraft Deli Deluxe American cheese makes it a suitable option for those following a keto diet. However, it's important to note that the carb content may vary slightly depending on the slice size and weight. One source mentions that Kraft Deli Deluxe American Cheese slices contain 1 g of total carbs and 1 g of net carbs per slice, along with 6 g of fat and 70 calories.
While American cheese can be a part of a keto diet, it's worth considering the overall nutritional profile and other options available. For example, a comparison has been made between American cheese and hard cheddar, where it is pointed out that a similar carb count can be achieved with a much larger portion size of hard cheese. Additionally, some people may prefer "real cheese" over processed cheese products, as these can contain additives and microplastics.
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American cheese is fortified with vitamin D
While American cheese is not entirely carb-free, it is considered a low-carb cheese. The carb content of American cheese varies depending on the brand and type. For example, some sources state that an ounce of American cheese contains 1.4 grams of total carbs, while others state 2.4 grams. Additionally, certain varieties, such as Kraft Deli Deluxe American Cheese, are said to have less than 1 gram of net carbs.
Regardless of the slight variations in carb content, American cheese is often included in low-carb or ketogenic diets due to its relatively lower carb count compared to other cheeses. It is also a good source of high-quality protein and other essential nutrients.
One of the notable features of American cheese is that it is fortified with vitamin D. This means that vitamin D has been added to the cheese during processing to enhance its nutritional value. Vitamin D is essential for bone health as it helps strengthen bones by improving the absorption of calcium and phosphorus.
Fortification of foods with vitamin D is a common practice, especially in dairy products. Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin, and its addition to American cheese not only increases its nutritional value but also makes it a good source of this vital nutrient for individuals who may not be exposed to sufficient sunlight or consume enough vitamin D-rich foods.
In addition to being fortified with vitamin D, American cheese also contains other vitamins and minerals naturally. These include vitamin A, phosphorus, calcium, and zinc. Each of these nutrients plays important roles in maintaining overall health. For example, vitamin A promotes eye and immune health, while zinc is crucial for growth, digestion, and DNA synthesis.
While American cheese offers these nutritional benefits, it is important to consume it in moderation due to its high-calorie content and high levels of saturated fat, cholesterol, and sodium. Diets high in these components have been associated with an increased risk of heart disease and high blood pressure. Therefore, enjoying American cheese as part of a balanced diet and in appropriate portions can provide a good source of vitamin D and other essential nutrients.
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American cheese is high in saturated fat and sodium
While American cheese is not carb-free, some varieties have low carb content. For instance, Kraft Deli Deluxe American cheese has less than 1 gram of net carbs, while its White American cheese has 0.5 grams of total carbs. However, the primary health concern with American cheese is its high saturated fat and sodium content.
A slice of American cheese contains 9 grams of fat, 5 grams of which are saturated fats, accounting for 25% of the daily recommended intake. This high saturated fat content may lead to elevated LDL (bad) cholesterol levels, increasing the risk of atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by plaque buildup in the arteries. Diets rich in saturated fat and sodium are linked to an elevated risk of heart disease and high blood pressure.
The American Heart Association advises consuming no more than 5% to 6% of daily calories from saturated fat. For a 2,000-calorie diet, this equates to a maximum of 13 grams (120 calories) of saturated fat per day. Therefore, the relatively high saturated fat content of American cheese makes it easy to exceed the recommended limit if consumed in excess.
In addition to its high saturated fat content, American cheese is also a significant source of sodium. The sodium content in American cheese is substantially higher than other types of cheese, such as Swiss and Cheddar. Excessive sodium intake is associated with an increased risk of hypertension or high blood pressure.
While American cheese does provide some beneficial nutrients, such as high-quality protein, vitamins, and minerals, the potential health risks associated with its high saturated fat and sodium content cannot be overlooked. Therefore, it is generally recommended to consume American cheese sparingly as part of a balanced diet.
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Frequently asked questions
No, American cheese is not carb-free. However, it is considered a low-carb cheese.
The number of carbs in American cheese varies depending on the brand and type. For example, Kraft Deli Deluxe American cheese has less than 1 gram of net carbs, while a slice of American cheese typically has 2 grams of carbs.
While American cheese can be included in a keto diet, there are better, less-processed options available. Some keto dieters may prefer to choose high-quality, grass-fed, and full-fat cheeses instead.
American cheese is a good source of high-quality protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is fortified with vitamin D and naturally high in vitamin A, phosphorus, calcium, and zinc.
American cheese is a high-calorie, high-fat, and high-sodium food. It also contains saturated fat and cholesterol, which can increase the risk of heart disease if consumed in high amounts.
