Creamy dressing, made with sour cream and/or buttermilk and oil, fat-free
Category: Fats & Oils Characteristics: Reduced Calorie
Nutrition Highlights
Serving Size
Calories
18
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 | 14 (74.7%) |
Fat | 4.1 (22.7%) |
Protein | 1.0 (5.2%) |
Total | 18 (100%) |
Serving: 1 tbsp [17g]
Composition
Nutrient | Weight g (%) |
---|---|
Water | 13 (74.7%) |
Carbohydrate | 3.4 (20.0%) |
Fat | 0.5 (2.7%) |
Protein | 0.2 (1.4%) |
Ash | 0.2 (1.2%) |
Total | 17 (100%) |
Serving: 1 tbsp [17g]
Benefits
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It is reduced calorie which means it contains fewer calories compared to regular creamy dressings. This can help with weight control and management
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Being made with sour cream and/or buttermilk provides it with probiotics which are good bacteria that support digestive and immune health
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The fat-free attribute means it does not contain unhealthy saturated and trans fats which are linked to increased risk of heart disease
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The creamy texture provides satiety and helps consume salads and vegetables which are important sources of vitamins, minerals and fiber
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It adds flavor and moisture to meals while using less calories and fat compared to regular options, encouraging healthier eating habits
Risks
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High in calories and fat even though labeled reduced calorie or fat-free. Sour cream and oil are high in saturated fat which can raise LDL cholesterol
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Contains added sugars which provide empty calories and can contribute to weight gain and obesity
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Fat substitutes used to reduce fat content may not be healthy and their long term effects are unknown
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High in sodium which can increase blood pressure and risk of heart disease and stroke
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Frequent consumption can displace healthier options and contribute to an overall unhealthy diet
Additional Information
Creamy dressings made with sour cream and/or buttermilk and oil, reduced calorie, fat-free, offer both nutritional benefits and risks. Let's take a closer look at these aspects:
Nutritional Benefits:
1. Reduced Calorie Content: The primary attribute of this creamy dressing is that it is reduced in calories. This can be beneficial for individuals who are looking to manage their weight or reduce their overall calorie intake.
2. Fat-Free: Another significant attribute is that it is fat-free. By eliminating fat from the dressing, it reduces the calorie density and can be suitable for individuals following a low-fat diet or those aiming to reduce their fat consumption.
3. Source of Calcium: Sour cream and buttermilk, which are typically used in creamy dressings, are excellent sources of calcium. Calcium is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth, as well as supporting proper nerve function and muscle contraction.
4. Flavor and Texture: Creamy dressings can enhance the taste and texture of various dishes, making them more enjoyable and palatable. This can encourage individuals to consume more vegetables, which are often paired with dressings, thereby increasing their overall nutrient intake.
Nutritional Risks:
1. Limited Nutrient Profile: While creamy dressings can provide calcium, they often lack other essential nutrients. Since the primary attribute mentioned is reduced calorie and fat-free, it implies that the dressing may not contain other beneficial ingredients like vitamins, minerals, or fiber commonly found in whole foods.
2. High Sodium Content: Many commercially prepared creamy dressings, even reduced-calorie and fat-free versions, can be high in sodium. Excessive sodium intake can contribute to hypertension and increase the risk of heart disease. It is crucial to read labels and choose dressings with lower sodium content or consider making homemade versions with less salt.
3. Added Sugars: Some reduced-calorie creamy dressings may contain added sugars to compensate for the reduced fat content. These added sugars can increase the calorie content and potentially contribute to weight gain or affect blood sugar levels. Checking the ingredient list and opting for dressings with little to no added sugars is advisable.
4. Portion Control: While reduced-calorie and fat-free dressings can be beneficial for weight management, it is essential to practice portion control. Even though they have fewer calories, excessive consumption can still contribute to an overall calorie surplus. Moderation is key to obtaining the benefits without consuming excessive amounts.
In conclusion, creamy dressings made with sour cream and/or buttermilk and oil, reduced calorie, fat-free, offer some nutritional benefits such as reduced calorie and fat content, calcium, and improved flavor. However, they also come with risks like limited nutrient profile, high sodium content, added sugars, and the need for portion control. As with any food, it is important to consider these factors in the context of an overall balanced diet and individual dietary needs.