If you're watching your calorie intake, be cautious of 1 tbsp (38 g) Hazelnut Vanilla Spread, which contains a whopping 210 calories. This sweet spread is a popular choice for breakfast, snacks, and even desserts. But before you indulge, it's important to note its nutritional values.

The spread is high in fat, with 14g of fat per 1 tbsp serving. It also contains a high amount of sugar, with 20g per serving. Unfortunately, it doesn't contain any fiber either. So, while it can provide a quick energy boost, it may not keep you full for long.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at Hazelnut Vanilla Spread and explore some practical ways to incorporate it into your diet in mindful ways.

It's packed with calories

As mentioned in the introduction, Hazelnut Vanilla Spread is high in calories, with 210 calories per serving. For context, this is almost the same as the calories in a plain, small croissant! So, if you're trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight, it's important to practice portion control. Consider measuring out your serving size with a tablespoon and spreading it on toast or crackers. Alternatively, you could try a lower calorie spread, like almond butter or peanut butter, which have around 95-100 calories per tablespoon.

It contains a lot of fat

It's worth noting that not all fats are bad for you. However, Hazelnut Vanilla Spread does contain a high amount of saturated fat, which can be harmful to your health when consumed in excess. Saturated fats can raise your cholesterol levels and increase your risk of heart disease. If you still want to enjoy this spread, consider opting for a smaller serving size or using it as a condiment instead of the main component of your meal.

It has a high sugar content

While sugar provides us with a quick energy boost, it's important to be aware of our daily sugar intake. Hazelnut Vanilla Spread contains 20g of sugar per serving, which is just under the recommended daily limit for added sugars (25g for women, 36g for men). Too much added sugar in your diet can lead to weight gain, inflammation, and a host of other health issues. Try spreading a thin layer of the spread or choosing a lower sugar option, such as nut butter with no added sugar.

Contains no fiber

Fiber is an essential nutrient for digestion and can help keep you feeling full and satisfied after a meal. Unfortunately, Hazelnut Vanilla Spread doesn't contain any fiber. To balance out your spread, try pairing it with whole grain toast or crackers, which are typically higher in fiber. Another option is to mix in some chia seeds, which are high in fiber and can help thicken the spread.

May cause weight gain if consumed excessively

As with any high calorie, high fat, or high sugar food, overindulging in Hazelnut Vanilla Spread can lead to weight gain. If you find yourself reaching for the spread often, consider finding healthier substitutes or reducing your serving size. Pairing the spread with fruits or vegetables can also help balance out your meal or snack.

Can be a good source of energy

Despite its nutritional values, Hazelnut Vanilla Spread can provide a quick source of energy thanks to its high calorie and sugar content. This can be beneficial for athletes, people with busy schedules, or anyone needing a quick pick-me-up. Just remember to pair the spread with other nutrient-dense foods (like fruits or vegetables) to avoid a sugar crash later on.

May be enjoyed as a dessert or topping

One of the most popular ways to enjoy Hazelnut Vanilla Spread is as a sweet topping or dessert. However, keep in mind that adding the spread to an already sweet dish (like ice cream or pancakes) can cause the sugar content to skyrocket. Instead, try incorporating the spread into a savory dish (like a hazelnut dipping sauce for chicken or as a spread for veggie wraps) to balance out the sweetness.

Has a delicious taste and aroma

One of the best things about Hazelnut Vanilla Spread is its delicious taste and aroma. The sweetness of the vanilla pairs perfectly with the nuttiness of the hazelnut, making it a fan favorite for many. While it's important to be mindful of the nutritional values, there's no denying that this spread can add a tasty dimension to your meals and snacks. Just be sure to practice moderation.

Can be included in a balanced diet

Just because Hazelnut Vanilla Spread isn't the most nutrient-dense food, it doesn't mean you have to completely cut it out of your diet. In fact, by practicing mindful eating and incorporating the spread into a balanced diet, you can still enjoy its deliciousness without compromising your health goals. Pair the spread with nutrient-dense foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and opt for lower calorie, lower sugar options when possible. At the end of the day, everything in moderation is key to a healthy lifestyle.

Great for spreading on toast or crackers

If you're looking for a quick and easy breakfast or snack option, Hazelnut Vanilla Spread is a great choice for topping toast or crackers. However, keep in mind that high-calorie spreads like this can quickly add up. Instead of dunking crackers directly into the jar, measure out a small portion (like 1 tbsp) and spread it evenly onto your toast or crackers.