Are you a cheese lover but concerned about maintaining a healthy diet? 1 cubic inch of low sodium, pasteurized cheddar or American cheese contains only 68 calories, making it a viable option for those who can't resist indulging in cheese once in a while.

Apart from its delicious taste, this cheese has several health benefits as well, making it a perfect addition to your everyday meals. Let's explore the nutritional information and some interesting facts about this low calorie, low sodium cheese.

In this article, we'll share some useful tips on portion control and some alternative low calorie cheese options as well as how cheese can be a source of calcium, and how it can impact cholesterol levels and digestive health. Keep reading to find out more.

Low Sodium Cheese Benefits

Low sodium cheese is specifically designed to be consumed by people who are mindful of their salt intake. It is an excellent source of protein, calcium, and vitamin D. A low sodium diet has numerous health benefits including lower blood pressure, making it an ideal cheese for people who suffer from hypertension. It also helps reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke and other cardiovascular diseases. It is worth noting that not all low sodium cheese is created equal. Always check the nutrition label and read the ingredients list before you buy any low sodium cheese.

Cheddar vs American Cheese

Cheddar and American cheese are two of the most popular varieties of cheese in the US. However, they differ in terms of taste, texture, and manufacturing process. Cheddar cheese has a sharper, more intense flavor than American cheese. It is made by using the bacterial culture to ferment the milk and then aging it for several months. On the other hand, American cheese is made by combining cheddar cheese with other ingredients such as emulsifiers and milk proteins. Overall, it comes down to personal preference when it comes to choosing between cheddar and American cheese. Both varieties are equally delicious and low in calories when consumed in moderation.

Pasteurized vs Unpasteurized Cheese

Pasteurization is the process of heating milk to kill harmful bacteria. In the US, all commercially sold cheese is required to be pasteurized to protect against foodborne illnesses. Unpasteurized cheese, also known as raw milk cheese, is made from milk that has not been heat-treated. While many people believe that unpasteurized cheese has a superior taste and nutritional benefits, it is not recommended for certain populations such as pregnant women, young children, and people with weakened immune systems. If you're unsure about whether you should consume unpasteurized cheese, always consult your doctor or a registered dietitian.

Nutritional Value of 1 Cubic Inch Cheese

One cubic inch of low sodium, pasteurized cheddar or American cheese contains approximately 68 calories, 5 grams of fat, 1.5 grams of saturated fat, and 25 milligrams of cholesterol. It is also a good source of protein, calcium, and vitamin D. Cheese also contains other essential micronutrients such as vitamin A, vitamin B12, and phosphorus. However, due to its high-fat content, it should be consumed in moderation to maintain a healthy diet. Remember to check the nutrition label before you buy any cheese to ensure that it meets your dietary needs and requirements.

Portion Control for Cheese Consumption

Cheese is a popular ingredient in many dishes such as pizza, pasta, and sandwiches. However, due to its high-fat content, it should be consumed in moderation. One cubic inch of low sodium, pasteurized cheddar or American cheese is a reasonable portion size, containing only 68 calories. If you're looking to reduce your calorie intake further, you can opt for a reduced-fat cheese option instead of the regular one. Remember that moderation is key when it comes to cheese consumption. Always keep an eye on your portion size and try to balance out your diet with other healthy foods such as fruits and vegetables.

Alternative Low-Calorie Cheese Options

Apart from low sodium, pasteurized cheddar or American cheese, there are several alternative low calorie cheese options available in the market such as feta, goat cheese, and ricotta. These cheeses are lower in fat and calories than regular cheese and can be used in a variety of dishes such as salads and wraps. They also provide a good source of protein and calcium. If you're looking to add some variety to your meals while maintaining a healthy diet, try experimenting with different low calorie cheese options and see which ones suit your taste buds best.

Cheese as a Source of Calcium

Cheese is an excellent source of calcium, which is essential for maintaining healthy bones and teeth. One cubic inch of low sodium, pasteurized cheddar or American cheese contains around 20% of the recommended daily intake of calcium. However, keep in mind that not all cheeses are created equal when it comes to calcium content. If you're looking to increase your calcium intake, you can opt for cheese varieties such as parmesan or swiss, which are higher in calcium content than cheddar or American cheese.

The Impact of Cheese on Cholesterol Levels

Cheese has a high-fat content, which can lead to increased levels of cholesterol in the blood if consumed in excess. However, studies have shown that moderate consumption of cheese can have a neutral or even positive effect on cholesterol levels, as it contains compounds such as conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) that have cholesterol-lowering properties. If you're concerned about your cholesterol levels, always consult your doctor or a registered dietitian before making any changes to your diet.

Cheese and Digestive Health

Cheese is a rich source of probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that promote digestive health. Probiotics can help improve gut health by restoring the natural balance of bacteria in the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and improving nutrient absorption. If you're looking to improve your digestive health, consider incorporating probiotic-rich foods such as cheese into your diet.

Incorporating Cheese into a Balanced Diet

Cheese is a delicious and versatile ingredient that can be incorporated into a balanced diet in many ways. You can use low sodium, pasteurized cheddar or American cheese as a topping for salads, sandwiches, and burgers. Alternatively, you can try using cheese as an ingredient in soups, omelets, and casseroles. Just remember to keep an eye on your portion sizes and balance out your meals with other healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.