Salad Dressing, coleslaw
Category: Fats & Oils Characteristics: Reduced Fat
Nutrition Highlights
Serving Size
Calories
56
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 | 31 (54.6%) |
| Carbohydrate | 27 (48.5%) |
| Total | 56 (100%) |
Serving: 1 tbsp [17g]
Composition
| Nutrient | Weight g (%) |
|---|---|
| Carbohydrate | 6.8 (40.0%) |
| Water | 6.3 (37.0%) |
| Fat | 3.4 (20.0%) |
| Ash | 0.5 (3.0%) |
| Total | 17 (100%) |
Serving: 1 tbsp [17g]
Benefits
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It is low in calories and fat compared to regular salad dressings. 2 tablespoons of reduced fat coleslaw dressing has only 25 calories and 2.5g of fat
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The fat content is reduced by using non-fat yogurt, buttermilk or low-fat mayonnaise instead of oil and whole milk products. This makes it a healthier choice
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It adds flavor and moisture to coleslaw and salads without overloading them with fat and calories. This allows you to enjoy salads as part of a balanced, low-fat diet
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Some reduced fat dressings contain vitamins, minerals and antioxidants from ingredients like lemon juice, vinegar and herbs/spices. This provides some nutritional value
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Choosing reduced fat over regular dressings can help control calorie and fat intake as part of weight management or cardiovascular health goals
Risks
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High in sodium. A 2-tablespoon serving of reduced fat coleslaw dressing provides around 150-200mg of sodium which is 8-10% of the recommended daily intake
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Contains added sugars. Many reduced fat dressings contain added sugars like high fructose corn syrup to enhance flavor lost from reducing fat content
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May be high in calories. While reduced in fat, dressings are still calorie dense with around 50-70 calories per 2-tablespoon serving depending on specific product
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Contains few nutrients. Dressings are mostly empty calories without much nutritional value beyond calories, sodium and sugars
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Portion distortion. It's easy to use more than the recommended 2-tablespoon serving size listed on nutrition facts leading to higher sodium and calorie intake
Additional Information
Salad Dressing, coleslaw, reduced fat, is a popular condiment that is commonly used to enhance the flavor of salads and other dishes. It is typically made from a combination of ingredients such as oil, vinegar, herbs, spices, and sometimes mayonnaise or yogurt. The reduced-fat version of coleslaw dressing aims to provide a healthier option by reducing the overall fat content. Let's explore the nutritional benefits and risks of this particular food product.
Nutritional Benefits:
1. Lower Fat Content: Reduced-fat coleslaw dressing is formulated to contain less fat compared to regular versions. This can be beneficial for individuals who are watching their fat intake, as high-fat diets are associated with an increased risk of various health issues, including heart disease.
2. Essential Fatty Acids: Although the fat content is reduced, salad dressings often still contain some healthy fats, such as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. These fats are crucial for the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) and provide essential fatty acids that the body needs for various functions.
3. Flavor and Texture: Salad dressings, including reduced-fat coleslaw dressing, can make vegetables and salads more enjoyable to eat. This can encourage individuals to incorporate more vegetables into their diet, thereby increasing their intake of essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
4. Antioxidant Intake: Some salad dressings may contain ingredients like herbs and spices that are rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants help protect the body against damage caused by harmful molecules called free radicals, which are associated with chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease.
Nutritional Risks:
1. Added Sugar: Some reduced-fat salad dressings, including coleslaw dressing, may compensate for the reduced fat content by adding more sugar. Excessive sugar consumption has been linked to obesity, diabetes, and other metabolic disorders. It is important to read labels and choose dressings with minimal added sugars.
2. High Sodium Content: Salad dressings, including reduced-fat coleslaw dressing, can be high in sodium. Excessive sodium intake is associated with increased blood pressure and an increased risk of heart disease. Opting for low-sodium or sodium-free alternatives or using dressings sparingly can help mitigate this risk.
3. Artificial Ingredients: Some reduced-fat salad dressings may contain artificial additives, such as preservatives, flavor enhancers, and food colorings. These additives may have potential health risks, including allergic reactions and adverse effects on overall health. Choosing dressings with minimal artificial ingredients or making homemade dressings can be a healthier option.
In conclusion, reduced-fat coleslaw dressing offers some nutritional benefits, such as a lower fat content and potential inclusion of essential fatty acids. It can enhance the flavor of salads and increase vegetable consumption. However, it is important to be mindful of potential risks, such as added sugars, high sodium content, and artificial ingredients. Reading labels, choosing dressings with minimal additives, and using them in moderation can help individuals make healthier choices when incorporating reduced-fat coleslaw dressing into their diet.