Cheese product, American
Category: Dairy & Egg Products Characteristics: Pasteurized Process, Reduced Fat, Fortified With Vitamin D
Nutrition Highlights
Serving Size
Calories
50
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 | 27 (52.9%) |
| Protein | 15 (29.3%) |
| Carbohydrate | 8.9 (17.7%) |
| Total | 50 (100%) |
Serving: 1 slice 3/4 oz [21g]
Composition
| Nutrient | Weight g (%) |
|---|---|
| Water | 11 (51.8%) |
| Protein | 3.7 (17.6%) |
| Fat | 3.0 (14.1%) |
| Carbohydrate | 2.2 (10.6%) |
| Ash | 1.2 (5.9%) |
| Total | 21 (100%) |
Serving: 1 slice 3/4 oz [21g]
Benefits
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It is a source of calcium and phosphorus which are important for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth. The calcium in this cheese product is made more absorbable due to the vitamin D fortification
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It contains protein which provides energy and aids in growth and cell repair. The protein in cheese is high quality as it contains all essential amino acids
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Being reduced fat, it is lower in saturated fat and calories compared to regular cheese which can help with weight management as part of an overall healthy diet and lifestyle
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Vitamin D added through fortification plays a key role in calcium absorption and utilization and is important for bone and heart health
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It contains some vitamins and minerals like vitamin B12, riboflavin and zinc in small amounts which contribute to overall nutrition
Risks
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High in saturated fat and sodium which can increase risk of heart disease if consumed in large amounts
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Contains dairy which some people may be sensitive or allergic to
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Reduced fat versions may contain more sugar and calories than regular versions to compensate for taste
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Fortification of vitamin D does not negate other risks from saturated fat and sodium content
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Pasteurization process destroys some beneficial bacteria normally found in cheese
Additional Information
Cheese is a popular and versatile food that is enjoyed by many people around the world. One specific type of cheese, the cheese product, pasteurized process, American, reduced fat, fortified with vitamin D, offers a range of nutritional benefits and risks.
Starting with the nutritional benefits, this cheese product is fortified with vitamin D. Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in maintaining bone health by aiding in the absorption of calcium and phosphorus. It also supports immune function and helps regulate cell growth and differentiation. Fortifying this cheese product with vitamin D can be particularly beneficial for individuals who have limited sun exposure, as sunlight is a primary source of this vitamin.
Additionally, this cheese product is reduced fat. By reducing the fat content, it becomes a healthier option for individuals who are conscious of their calorie intake or are following a low-fat diet. Lower fat content can also be beneficial for individuals with certain health conditions, such as heart disease or high cholesterol levels.
However, it's important to note that cheese products, including this one, may have some nutritional risks. Despite being reduced fat, cheese products can still be relatively high in saturated fat and sodium. Saturated fat is known to raise LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease. Therefore, individuals with existing heart conditions or high cholesterol levels should consume this cheese product in moderation.
Furthermore, the sodium content in cheese products can be a concern for individuals with high blood pressure or those who need to limit their sodium intake. Excessive sodium consumption can contribute to high blood pressure and increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, individuals with such conditions should be cautious when including this cheese product in their diet and consider other lower-sodium alternatives.
It is also worth mentioning that while this cheese product is fortified with vitamin D, it is important to obtain this nutrient from a variety of sources. Relying solely on fortified foods may not provide adequate amounts of vitamin D. Natural sources of vitamin D include fatty fish like salmon, fortified dairy products, and sunlight exposure. Therefore, incorporating a diverse range of vitamin D sources into the diet is recommended.
In conclusion, the cheese product, pasteurized process, American, reduced fat, fortified with vitamin D, offers some nutritional benefits such as being a source of vitamin D and being lower in fat compared to regular cheese. However, it is crucial to be mindful of the potential risks associated with saturated fat and sodium content. As with any food, moderation and balance are key when incorporating this cheese product into a healthy and varied diet.