When it comes to pizza, people usually think about it as an unhealthy indulgence. But what if we told you that you can enjoy a slice of pizza that is not only delicious but also relatively healthy? Enter the Tomato and Feta Pizza! This 1/3 slice (137 g) contains only 250 calories, making it a guilt-free treat.

Apart from being low in calories, the Tomato and Feta Pizza is packed with nutrients that are essential for our body. The tomato sauce provides lycopene, an antioxidant that lowers the risk of heart disease and some cancers. Feta cheese is a good source of calcium, which is crucial for maintaining healthy bones and teeth. Additionally, the pizza crust is made of whole grain, meaning that it contains more fiber, vitamins, and minerals than refined grain products.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at the ingredients, calories, macronutrients, and micronutrients of Tomato and Feta Pizza. We'll also discuss its benefits and drawbacks, and explore ways to make it even healthier.

Ingredients of Tomato and Feta Pizza

The Tomato and Feta Pizza is made of several ingredients that work together to create a savory and satisfying flavor. The main ingredients are: - Tomato sauce: made of tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and herbs. The sauce is rich in lycopene, vitamin C, and potassium. - Feta cheese: a tangy and creamy cheese that is high in protein, calcium, and vitamin B6.

Calories in 1/3 slice of Tomato and Feta Pizza

As mentioned earlier, one 1/3 slice (137 g) of Tomato and Feta Pizza contains 250 calories. This makes it a relatively low-calorie option compared to other types of pizza, which can contain up to 400-500 calories per slice (usually 1/8 of a large pizza). Of course, the calorie count may vary depending on the amount and type of toppings used.

Macronutrients in Tomato and Feta Pizza

The Tomato and Feta Pizza is a balanced meal that provides all three macronutrients: carbohydrates, protein, and fat. Here's a breakdown of the macronutrient content in one 1/3 slice of Tomato and Feta Pizza: - Carbohydrates: 28 g - Protein: 12 g

Micronutrients in Tomato and Feta Pizza

In addition to the macronutrients, the Tomato and Feta Pizza is also rich in micronutrients, which are essential for various bodily functions. Here are some of the micronutrients and their amounts in one 1/3 slice of Tomato and Feta Pizza: - Calcium: 155 mg - Iron: 2 mg

Benefits of Tomato and Feta Pizza

The Tomato and Feta Pizza offers several health benefits thanks to its nutrient-rich ingredients. Here are some of the benefits: - Lycopene in tomatoes has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that lower the risk of heart disease and some cancers. - Calcium in feta cheese is crucial for bone and teeth health, and also plays a role in muscle and nerve function.

Drawbacks of Tomato and Feta Pizza

While the Tomato and Feta Pizza is a relatively healthy option, it may still have some drawbacks. Here are some potential concerns: - Sodium: One 1/3 slice of Tomato and Feta Pizza contains around 450 mg of sodium, which is 20% of the daily limit recommended by the American Heart Association. High sodium intake has been linked to high blood pressure and other health problems. - Fat: Although the fat content in the Tomato and Feta Pizza is not too high, it still contributes to the overall calorie count. It's important to be mindful of portion sizes.

Is Tomato and Feta Pizza healthy?

Overall, the Tomato and Feta Pizza can be considered a healthy option as long as it's consumed in moderation and as part of a balanced diet. It provides a good balance of macronutrients and micronutrients, and the whole grain crust, tomato sauce, and feta cheese offer various health benefits. However, it's important to be mindful of the potential drawbacks, such as high sodium and fat content, and to choose healthier toppings (such as veggies) instead of processed meats or extra cheese.

How to make Tomato and Feta Pizza healthier

If you're looking to make your Tomato and Feta Pizza even healthier, here are some tips: - Use less cheese: While feta cheese is a healthy option, using too much can increase the calorie and fat content. Use a light hand when sprinkling cheese on your pizza. - Add more veggies: Adding veggies such as peppers, mushrooms, onions, or spinach can not only increase the nutrient content of your pizza but also add flavor and texture.

Substitutes for Tomato and Feta Pizza

If you're not a fan of Tomato and Feta Pizza or want to try something different, here are some substitutes that you might enjoy: - Veggie pizza: A pizza loaded with veggies such as broccoli, mushrooms, kale, and bell peppers can be a nutritious and delicious option. You can also opt for a cauliflower crust for a lower-carb alternative. - Margherita pizza: Made with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil, the Margherita pizza is a classic and simple option that is lower in calories and fat than other types of pizza.

Conclusion

The Tomato and Feta Pizza is a tasty and relatively healthy option that can satisfy your pizza cravings without ruining your diet. It's rich in nutrients such as lycopene, calcium, fiber, and protein, and can offer numerous health benefits. However, it's important to be mindful of the potential drawbacks, such as high sodium and fat content, and to make healthier choices when it comes to toppings and crust. With a little bit of creativity and experimentation, you can turn your Tomato and Feta Pizza into a nutritious and delicious meal that you can enjoy guilt-free!