Doughnuts, cake-type, chocolate, sugared or glazed
Category: Baked Products
Nutrition Highlights
Serving Size
Calories
118
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 | 65 (55.2%) |
| Fat | 51 (43.1%) |
| Protein | 5.1 (4.3%) |
| Total | 118 (100%) |
Serving: 1 oz [28g]
Composition
| Nutrient | Weight g (%) |
|---|---|
| Carbohydrate | 16 (57.4%) |
| Fat | 5.6 (19.9%) |
| Water | 4.6 (16.3%) |
| Protein | 1.3 (4.5%) |
| Ash | 0.5 (1.8%) |
| Total | 28 (100%) |
Serving: 1 oz [28g]
Benefits
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Provides calories for energy. The sugar and fat provide quick energy
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Contains carbohydrates in the form of sugar that can be used for energy. However, the sugar is not a very nutritious form of carb
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The fat content provides calories and satiety. However, it is mostly saturated and trans fat which is not heart healthy
-
Chocolate adds flavor and cocoa compounds that may have some antioxidant effects. But overall chocolate provides more sugar and fat than nutrients
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Glazing or sugaring adds flavor and visual appeal. But primarily adds more sugar with little nutritional value
Risks
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High in added sugars and refined carbohydrates which can contribute to weight gain and increased risk of obesity, diabetes and heart disease if consumed frequently
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High in saturated fat and cholesterol which can increase risk of heart disease
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Lack fiber and essential nutrients. Consuming in place of more nutritious foods displaces intake of vitamins, minerals and fiber
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Glazes or coatings may contain artificial colors, flavors and preservatives which are best consumed in moderation
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Portion sizes are often large leading to excessive calorie intake if eaten as is without considering overall diet
Additional Information
Doughnuts, cake-type, chocolate, sugared or glazed, are a popular treat enjoyed by many individuals. However, it is important to be aware of their nutritional benefits and risks in order to make informed choices about their consumption.
Starting with the nutritional benefits, doughnuts can provide a quick source of energy due to their high carbohydrate content. Carbohydrates are the body's preferred source of fuel and can be beneficial for individuals engaging in intense physical activities or requiring an energy boost. Additionally, doughnuts may contain small amounts of essential nutrients such as iron, calcium, and B vitamins, depending on the ingredients used in their preparation.
On the flip side, doughnuts also come with several nutritional risks. One of the primary concerns is their high calorie content. Doughnuts are typically calorie-dense due to their combination of refined flour, sugar, and fat. This can contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess or as part of a consistently unhealthy diet. The high sugar content in doughnuts can also lead to a rapid spike in blood sugar levels, followed by a subsequent crash, which may leave individuals feeling fatigued and craving more sugary foods.
Furthermore, doughnuts are often deep-fried, which adds a significant amount of unhealthy fats to the product. These fats are typically saturated and trans fats, which can increase the risk of heart disease and negatively impact cholesterol levels. Regular consumption of foods high in unhealthy fats can contribute to the development of obesity, high blood pressure, and other cardiovascular issues.
The glazing or sugaring of doughnuts further adds to their nutritional risks. The glazes and sugar coatings are typically made from refined sugars, which offer little to no nutritional value and can contribute to weight gain, tooth decay, and an increased risk of chronic conditions such as diabetes and metabolic syndrome. Additionally, the glazes may contain artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, which can have negative effects on health when consumed in large quantities over time.
To make doughnuts a healthier choice, consider some alternatives. Opting for baked doughnuts instead of fried ones can significantly reduce the fat content. Choosing whole wheat or alternative flours can increase the fiber content, making them more satiating and beneficial for digestive health. Additionally, using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup in moderation can be a healthier alternative to refined sugars.
In conclusion, doughnuts, particularly cake-type, chocolate, sugared, or glazed ones, have both nutritional benefits and risks. While they can provide a quick source of energy and small amounts of essential nutrients, they are also high in calories, unhealthy fats, and refined sugars. Regular consumption of these doughnuts can contribute to weight gain, increased risk of heart disease, and other health issues. Therefore, it is important to enjoy doughnuts in moderation and consider healthier alternatives or modifications to reduce their negative impact on overall health.