Italian, spaghetti with meat sauce
Category: Restaurant Foods Characteristics: Restaurant
Nutrition Highlights
Serving Size
Calories
670
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 | 363 (54.2%) |
| Fat | 179 (26.7%) |
| Protein | 128 (19.1%) |
| Total | 670 (100%) |
Serving: 1 serving [554g]
Composition
| Nutrient | Weight g (%) |
|---|---|
| Water | 406 (73.2%) |
| Carbohydrate | 91 (16.4%) |
| Protein | 32 (5.8%) |
| Fat | 20 (3.6%) |
| Ash | 5.9 (1.1%) |
| Total | 554 (100%) |
Serving: 1 serving [554g]
Benefits
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Provides protein from the meat sauce. Beef and pork are good sources of high-quality protein that aids muscle growth and repair
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Contains carbohydrates from the pasta. Pasta provides slow-releasing carbohydrates that can help provide sustained energy
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Contains vitamins and minerals from the tomatoes in the sauce. Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium and manganese
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May help you feel full and satisfied. The combination of protein, carbohydrates and fiber in spaghetti and meat sauce can help promote fullness
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Offers variety of flavors. The blend of spices, herbs and different meats in the sauce adds flavor and interest to the meal
Risks
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High in calories and fat due to the meat sauce and pasta. The meat sauce is likely to contain fatty meats like sausage
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High in sodium from the meat sauce and likely use of pre-made sauces which are high in sodium
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Lack of fiber and many essential vitamins/minerals since it only contains pasta and meat sauce without vegetables or other ingredients
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Portion sizes at restaurants are often large providing more calories than needed in a single sitting
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Saturated and trans fats from fatty meats in the sauce increase risk of heart disease if consumed frequently
Additional Information
Spaghetti with meat sauce is a popular Italian dish enjoyed by many across the globe. This classic combination of pasta and savory sauce offers several nutritional benefits, but it is also important to be aware of potential risks associated with consuming this dish.
Starting with the nutritional benefits, spaghetti with meat sauce can be a good source of carbohydrates, which are the body's primary source of energy. The pasta in this dish provides complex carbohydrates, which are digested slowly, resulting in a steady release of energy. This can help keep you feeling fuller for longer and provide sustained energy throughout the day.
Additionally, the meat sauce component of this dish can offer various essential nutrients. Lean ground meat, such as turkey or lean beef, can provide high-quality protein, which is crucial for building and repairing tissues, supporting immune function, and maintaining healthy hair, skin, and nails. Protein also helps in the production of enzymes and hormones, and it contributes to a feeling of satiety.
Furthermore, the meat sauce typically includes tomatoes, which are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants like lycopene. Vitamin A promotes good vision, supports the immune system, and aids in cell growth and development. Vitamin C is essential for collagen synthesis, wound healing, and boosting the immune system. Lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, has been linked to a reduced risk of certain types of cancer and heart disease.
While spaghetti with meat sauce offers several nutritional benefits, it is important to be mindful of potential risks associated with its consumption. One potential risk is the high calorie content of this dish. The pasta and meat sauce combination can be calorie-dense, especially if the portion size is not controlled. Excessive calorie intake can lead to weight gain and increase the risk of chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
Moreover, the sauce used in this dish may contain added sugars, sodium, and unhealthy fats. Some commercially available sauces can be high in added sugars, which can contribute to weight gain and increase the risk of developing conditions like type 2 diabetes. Additionally, certain sauces may be high in sodium, which can raise blood pressure levels and negatively impact cardiovascular health. It is advisable to choose sauces with reduced sugar and sodium content, or better yet, prepare homemade sauces using fresh ingredients.
Lastly, individuals with specific dietary restrictions or health conditions should be cautious when consuming spaghetti with meat sauce. Those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease should opt for gluten-free pasta, as traditional spaghetti is made from wheat flour. Additionally, individuals with high blood pressure or kidney disease may need to limit their sodium intake and choose low-sodium sauce options.
In conclusion, spaghetti with meat sauce can provide several nutritional benefits, including a good source of carbohydrates, protein, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants. However, it is important to be mindful of the potential risks associated with this dish, such as its high calorie content, added sugars, sodium, and unhealthy fats. By being aware of portion sizes, choosing healthier sauce options, and considering individual dietary needs, spaghetti with meat sauce can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.