Fast foods, nachos, with cheese
Category: Fast Foods
Nutrition Highlights
Serving Size
Calories
275
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 | 155 (56.2%) |
| Carbohydrate | 112 (40.6%) |
| Protein | 14 (5.0%) |
| Total | 275 (100%) |
Serving: 1 serving [80g]
Composition
| Nutrient | Weight g (%) |
|---|---|
| Water | 30 (37.4%) |
| Carbohydrate | 28 (34.9%) |
| Fat | 17 (21.5%) |
| Protein | 3.5 (4.3%) |
| Ash | 1.5 (1.9%) |
| Total | 80 (100%) |
Serving: 1 serving [80g]
Benefits
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Provides calories and energy. The tortilla chips, cheese and any meat toppings provide carbohydrates, protein and fat that can fuel your body
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Source of calcium. The cheese is a good source of calcium which is important for bone health
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Contains vitamins and minerals. Depending on toppings used, nachos can provide vitamins and minerals like vitamin B6, zinc and iron
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Satisfying snack. The combination of crunchy chips, melted cheese and toppings can make for a filling snack that satisfies cravings
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Familiar comfort food. For many people nachos evoke feelings of familiarity and comfort which can positively impact mood and well-being
Risks
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High in saturated fat and sodium due to the cheese topping. Excess saturated fat intake is linked to increased risk of heart disease
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The tortilla chips are usually high in refined carbohydrates and not whole grains. High intake of refined carbs can increase risk of weight gain and diabetes
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Fast food nachos tend to be highly processed and lack nutrients like fiber, vitamins and minerals found in whole foods. This can negatively impact overall health
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Portion sizes are often large, making it easy to overeat high calorie foods. Overeating regularly can lead to obesity and related health issues
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Eating fast food nachos frequently replaces eating more nutritious home-cooked meals. A diet high in fast food lacks balance and increases risk of chronic disease long term
Additional Information
Fast foods, specifically nachos with cheese, are a popular choice for many individuals due to their convenience and delicious taste. However, it is essential to be aware of the nutritional benefits and risks associated with consuming this item.
Firstly, let's discuss the primary attribute of nachos with cheese, which is typically the corn chips. Corn chips are a source of carbohydrates, providing energy to fuel our daily activities. However, it is important to note that they are often deep-fried, which increases their calorie content and can contribute to weight gain if consumed excessively.
Moving on to the secondary attribute, the cheese used in nachos can provide some nutritional benefits. Cheese is a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, as well as supporting the immune system. Additionally, it contains calcium, which is crucial for maintaining strong bones and teeth. However, it is vital to opt for healthier cheese options, such as reduced-fat or low-sodium varieties, to minimize the intake of unhealthy saturated fats and excessive sodium.
Despite these potential benefits, there are several risks associated with consuming nachos with cheese as a fast food option. Firstly, the high calorie and fat content can contribute to weight gain and increase the risk of obesity. The deep-fried corn chips and excessive cheese can lead to a significant intake of unhealthy trans fats and saturated fats, which are linked to heart disease and high cholesterol levels.
Furthermore, fast food nachos with cheese are often served with additional toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, or salsa. While these toppings can add flavor, they also increase the calorie and fat content of the dish. Sour cream, for example, is high in saturated fat, while guacamole can be calorie-dense due to its high healthy fat content. Moderation is key when it comes to these toppings to avoid excessive calorie intake.
Another concern with fast food nachos is the high sodium content. The corn chips, cheese, and additional toppings are often loaded with salt, which can contribute to high blood pressure and increase the risk of heart disease. It is crucial to be mindful of sodium intake and consider healthier alternatives or portion control when consuming nachos with cheese.
In conclusion, fast food nachos with cheese can provide some nutritional benefits, such as carbohydrates for energy, protein for tissue repair, and calcium for bone health. However, the risks associated with excessive calorie intake, unhealthy fats, and high sodium content should not be overlooked. It is advisable to consume nachos with cheese in moderation and opt for healthier variations, such as baked chips, reduced-fat cheese, and lighter toppings. Additionally, incorporating a variety of nutrient-dense foods into your diet and maintaining an active lifestyle is essential for overall health and wellbeing.