When it comes to healthy eating, it's important to pay attention to calorie intake. 1/4 cup (28 g) of Fancy Shredded Medium Cheddar Cheese contains 110 calories, which can add up quickly if not consumed in moderation.

But while it may not be the lowest calorie option, cheddar cheese still offers valuable nutrients that can benefit your health. Here's a breakdown of what you'll find in each serving size of this popular cheese variety.

Whether you're trying to lose weight, build muscle, or simply eat a well-balanced diet, understanding the nutritional value of the foods you eat is key. Read on to learn more about the benefits of cheddar cheese and how to incorporate it into your meal plan.

Calorie Count

As mentioned, a 1/4 cup serving of Fancy Shredded Medium Cheddar Cheese contains 110 calories. While this may seem like a lot, it's important to remember that not all calories are created equal. Cheddar cheese is a good source of protein and other nutrients, making it a better choice than many other high-calorie processed foods. To minimize calorie intake, try to stick to small portions and pair your cheese with other low-calorie foods like fresh vegetables or whole grain crackers.

Serving Size

The recommended serving size for Fancy Shredded Medium Cheddar Cheese is 1/4 cup or 28 grams. This amount is equivalent to about 1 slice of cheese, which makes it easy to measure out for recipes or snacks. If you're looking for a quick and convenient source of protein, cheddar cheese can be a great option due to its portability and long shelf life.

Amount Per Serving

In addition to 110 calories, a 1/4 cup serving of Fancy Shredded Medium Cheddar Cheese contains 9 grams of fat, 6 grams of protein, and 200 milligrams of sodium. The fat content is relatively high, but much of it comes from healthy sources like conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) and omega-3 fatty acids. The protein and sodium content make it a filling and satisfying option for snacks or meals.

Cheddar Cheese Nutrients

Cheddar cheese is a good source of several important nutrients, including calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin B12. Calcium is essential for building strong bones and teeth, while vitamin A supports healthy vision and immunity. Vitamin B12 is important for red blood cell production and brain function. Incorporating cheddar cheese into your diet can help ensure you're getting these crucial vitamins and minerals.

Daily Values

Based on a 2,000 calorie diet, a 1/4 cup serving of Fancy Shredded Medium Cheddar Cheese provides 20% of the recommended daily value for calcium, 8% for vitamin A, and 15% for vitamin B12. This makes it a valuable addition to a healthy diet, particularly for individuals who may be at risk for deficiencies in these nutrients. Of course, it's important to consider your individual dietary needs and speak with a healthcare professional before making any significant changes to your eating habits.

Low Carb Option

For those following a low-carb diet, cheddar cheese can be a great option as it contains minimal amounts of carbohydrates. This makes it a popular choice for ketogenic diets, which emphasize high fat and protein intake while limiting carbohydrate intake. However, it's important to remember that even low-carb foods can contribute to calorie intake, so portion size and moderation are still important considerations.

High Protein Option

Cheddar cheese is a good source of protein, with 6 grams per 1/4 cup serving. Protein is essential for building and maintaining lean muscle mass, and can also help keep you feeling full and satisfied between meals. Including cheddar cheese in your diet can be a convenient way to boost your protein intake without relying on meat or other high-fat options.

Saturated Fat Content

One potential drawback of cheddar cheese is its high saturated fat content. Saturated fats are known to increase levels of LDL (or "bad") cholesterol, which can contribute to heart disease and other health problems. While cheddar cheese does contain some healthy fats, it's still important to consume in moderation and pair with other low-fat foods to minimize the negative effects on cholesterol levels.

Calcium Source

As mentioned, cheddar cheese is a good source of calcium, which is important for bone and teeth health. This makes it a valuable option for individuals who may be at risk for osteoporosis or other bone-related conditions. If you're looking for a tasty way to increase your calcium intake, try incorporating cheddar cheese into salads, omelets, or sandwiches.

Gluten-free

Cheddar cheese is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Be sure to read ingredient labels carefully and avoid any products that may contain added gluten, such as certain processed cheese products or crackers. Overall, cheddar cheese can be a tasty and nutritious addition to a balanced diet. If consumed in moderation and paired with other healthy foods, it can offer valuable nutrients and support overall health and wellbeing.