Cake, coffeecake, cinnamon with crumb topping
Category: Baked Products Characteristics: Commercially Prepared, Enriched
Nutrition Highlights
Serving Size
Calories
119
Nutrient
% Daily Value*
*Daily Values are based on the reference caloric intake of 2,000 calories for adults and children aged 4+ years. Source: Food & Drug Administration
Calorie Sources
| Nutrient | Calories kcal (%) |
|---|---|
| Fat | 59 (50.1%) |
| Carbohydrate | 53 (44.7%) |
| Protein | 7.7 (6.5%) |
| Total | 119 (100%) |
Serving: 1 oz [28g]
Composition
| Nutrient | Weight g (%) |
|---|---|
| Carbohydrate | 13 (46.7%) |
| Fat | 6.6 (23.3%) |
| Water | 6.2 (21.9%) |
| Protein | 1.9 (6.8%) |
| Ash | 0.4 (1.4%) |
| Total | 28 (100%) |
Serving: 1 oz [28g]
Benefits
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Provides carbohydrates in the form of sugars and flour that can be a source of energy
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Contains B vitamins like thiamin, riboflavin and niacin that are important for energy metabolism
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The enriched flour contains added iron, folate and other vitamins and minerals that are essential micronutrients
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The cinnamon and crumb topping add flavor and texture variety
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Commercially prepared makes it convenient to consume as a snack or with a beverage like coffee
Risks
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High in added sugars and refined carbohydrates which can contribute extra calories and spike blood sugar levels
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Contains trans fats from the partially hydrogenated vegetable oils often used in commercial baked goods
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Low in nutrients and fiber compared to whole foods
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Crumb topping is high in saturated fat
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Enriched flour has lost some nutrients during processing though manufacturers add some back
Additional Information
Cake, specifically coffeecake with cinnamon and crumb topping, commercially prepared and enriched, is a popular treat enjoyed by many. While it is undeniably delicious, it is essential to understand both the nutritional benefits and risks associated with consuming this item.
Starting with the nutritional benefits, commercially prepared coffeecakes often contain enriched ingredients. Enrichment refers to the addition of essential nutrients that may have been lost during processing. These nutrients are typically added back to improve the nutritional profile of the product. Enriched coffeecakes may provide essential vitamins and minerals such as iron, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, and folate. These nutrients play crucial roles in energy production, metabolism, and overall health.
Additionally, coffeecakes often contain cinnamon, which offers several health benefits. Cinnamon is rich in antioxidants, which help protect the body against damage from harmful free radicals. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that may contribute to reducing inflammation in the body. Moreover, cinnamon has been associated with potential benefits for blood sugar control, as it may help improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels.
However, it is important to note that despite these potential benefits, commercially prepared coffeecakes come with certain risks due to their high sugar and calorie content. The primary attribute of cake, including coffeecake, is its sweetness, which is achieved through the addition of sugar. Excessive sugar consumption has been linked to various health issues, including weight gain, increased risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.
Moreover, the crumb topping commonly found on coffeecakes often contains added fats, such as butter or margarine, which contribute to the overall calorie content. These fats can increase the risk of weight gain and have negative effects on heart health if consumed in excess.
Furthermore, commercially prepared coffeecakes may contain refined grains, which have undergone processing that removes the bran and germ, stripping away beneficial fiber and nutrients. Refined grains have a higher glycemic index, leading to a quicker rise in blood sugar levels compared to whole grains. This can disrupt blood sugar control and may contribute to the development of chronic diseases if consumed excessively.
Another risk associated with commercially prepared coffeecakes is the presence of artificial additives, such as preservatives, artificial flavors, and colors. These additives are often included to enhance the product's taste, appearance, and shelf life. However, they may have adverse effects on health, particularly for individuals with sensitivities or allergies to certain additives.
In conclusion, while commercially prepared coffeecake with cinnamon and crumb topping may offer some nutritional benefits through enrichment and the inclusion of cinnamon's health-promoting properties, it is crucial to be aware of the risks associated with consuming this item. High sugar and calorie content, refined grains, and artificial additives are factors that can have negative implications for overall health if consumed in excess. As with any indulgent treat, moderation is key to enjoying coffeecake while maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet.