Catsup
Category: Vegetables & Vegetable Products Characteristics: Low Sodium
Nutrition Highlights
Serving Size
Calories
17
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 (%) |
|---|---|
| Carbohydrate | 19 (100%) |
| Protein | 0.7 (4.1%) |
| Fat | 0.2 (0.9%) |
| Total | 17 (100%) |
Serving: 1 tbsp [17g]
Composition
| Nutrient | Weight g (%) |
|---|---|
| Water | 12 (68.5%) |
| Carbohydrate | 4.7 (27.4%) |
| Ash | 0.5 (2.9%) |
| Protein | 0.2 (1.0%) |
| Fat | 0.02 (0.1%) |
| Total | 17 (100%) |
Serving: 1 tbsp [17g]
Benefits
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Low in calories, with one tablespoon containing only 5 calories. Can help add flavor to foods without adding many calories
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Contains lycopene, an antioxidant that may help protect cells from damage. One tablespoon contains about 23% of the Daily Value for lycopene
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Source of vitamin C, with one tablespoon providing 4% of the Daily Value. Vitamin C is important for immune function and collagen production
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Contains trace amounts of B vitamins like riboflavin and niacin. B vitamins help convert food into fuel for the body's daily functions
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Low in sodium compared to regular ketchup. One tablespoon contains only 45mg of sodium versus the regular ketchup which contains around 120mg of sodium per tablespoon
Risks
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High in sugar - Catsup is made from tomatoes but also contains a significant amount of added sugar which provides calories without additional nutrients
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May promote weight gain - The sugar content can contribute to excess calorie intake and make it easier to gain weight over time if consumed in large amounts as part of an overall high sugar diet
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Lacks nutritional value - Aside from a small amount of vitamin C and potassium, catsup is not a significant source of essential vitamins, minerals or fiber
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Potential link to chronic disease - A diet high in added sugars over many years has been linked to increased risk of conditions like type 2 diabetes, heart disease and certain cancers
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Portion control important - It is easy to consume a lot of catsup without realizing it due to the small portion sizes typically used. Large portions provide more calories and sugar
Additional Information
Catsup, also known as ketchup, is a popular condiment that is widely used to enhance the flavor of various dishes. Low sodium catsup, as the name suggests, is a variation of this condiment that contains reduced levels of sodium compared to regular catsup. In this article, we will explore the nutritional benefits and risks associated with low sodium catsup.
Nutritional Benefits:
1. Reduced Sodium Content: One of the primary benefits of low sodium catsup is its reduced sodium content. Excessive sodium intake is linked to various health issues, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. By opting for low sodium catsup, individuals can better manage their sodium intake and promote overall heart health.
2. Lycopene Source: Catsup is made from tomatoes, which are a rich source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. Lycopene has been associated with numerous health benefits, including reducing the risk of certain cancers, improving skin health, and promoting eye health. Low sodium catsup retains the lycopene content of regular catsup, making it a good source of this beneficial antioxidant.
3. Vitamin C: Tomatoes are also a good source of vitamin C, an essential nutrient that plays a vital role in immune function, collagen synthesis, and antioxidant protection. Low sodium catsup can contribute to an individual's daily vitamin C intake, helping to support a healthy immune system and overall well-being.
Nutritional Risks:
1. Added Sugars: While low sodium catsup may have reduced sodium levels, it is important to be cautious about the added sugars that may be present in some brands. Excessive sugar consumption can lead to weight gain, increased risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, and dental issues. Therefore, it is crucial to read the nutrition labels and choose low sodium catsup with minimal added sugars or opt for brands that use natural sweeteners or no added sugars.
2. Processing and Preservatives: Catsup, including low sodium variants, often undergoes processing and may contain preservatives to extend its shelf life. While these additives are generally recognized as safe, some individuals may have sensitivities or allergies to certain preservatives. It is advisable to check the ingredient list and choose brands that use minimal additives or opt for organic low sodium catsup options.
In conclusion, low sodium catsup offers several nutritional benefits, including reduced sodium content, lycopene, and vitamin C. By choosing this condiment, individuals can better manage their sodium intake and enjoy the potential health benefits associated with tomatoes. However, it is important to be mindful of added sugars and the presence of processing additives or preservatives. As with any food product, moderation and reading labels are key to making informed dietary choices.