Salad dressing, italian dressing
Category: Fats & Oils Characteristics: Reduced Calorie
Nutrition Highlights
Serving Size
Calories
28
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 | 25 (90.0%) |
| Carbohydrate | 3.8 (13.4%) |
| Protein | 0.2 (0.6%) |
| Total | 28 (100%) |
Serving: 1 tbsp [14g]
Composition
| Nutrient | Weight g (%) |
|---|---|
| Water | 9.8 (70.0%) |
| Fat | 2.8 (20.0%) |
| Carbohydrate | 0.9 (6.7%) |
| Ash | 0.4 (3.0%) |
| Protein | 0.04 (0.3%) |
| Total | 14 (100%) |
Serving: 1 tbsp [14g]
Benefits
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Lower in calories compared to regular Italian dressing. A 2 tbsp serving has only 45 calories
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Contains heart-healthy fats from olive oil which is the main ingredient. Olive oil is high in monounsaturated fatty acids
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Good source of vitamin E which is an antioxidant that protects cells from damage. Each serving provides 15% of the Daily Value
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Contains herbs and spices that add flavor without a lot of sodium. A serving has only 100mg of sodium compared to 160mg in regular versions
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Versatile dressing that can be used for salads as well as pasta, chicken, fish and other dishes. Adds flavor while keeping calories in check compared to other options
Risks
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High in sodium which can raise blood pressure. One serving contains around 300mg of sodium
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Contains sugar which provides empty calories. Sugar can contribute to weight gain and diabetes risk if consumed in excess
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Made with vegetable oils which are high in omega-6 fatty acids. Eating too much omega-6 relative to omega-3 can promote inflammation
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Contains food additives like emulsifiers, thickeners and preservatives which some research links to health issues like gut problems and weight gain
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Being highly processed, it offers few nutrients and fiber compared to whole foods like fresh vegetables
Additional Information
Italian dressing, reduced calorie, is a popular type of salad dressing that offers both nutritional benefits and risks. This dressing is primarily known for its tangy and flavorful taste, making it a favorite choice for many salad enthusiasts. Let's delve into the primary attribute, reduced calorie, and explore the secondary attributes to understand its nutritional profile.
The primary attribute of reduced calorie in Italian dressing is a significant benefit for individuals aiming to manage their weight or reduce calorie intake. This type of dressing is formulated to have fewer calories compared to regular Italian dressing, making it a suitable option for those following a calorie-restricted diet. By using reduced calorie Italian dressing, individuals can still enjoy the flavors and enhance the taste of their salads while reducing their overall calorie consumption.
In addition to being lower in calories, reduced calorie Italian dressing may also contain less fat compared to its regular counterpart. Fat is a nutrient that provides energy and aids in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. However, excessive fat intake can contribute to weight gain and increase the risk of certain health conditions, such as heart disease. Choosing a reduced calorie version can help limit fat intake while still adding flavor to salads.
On the other hand, it is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with reduced calorie Italian dressing. One of the primary concerns is the use of artificial sweeteners or sugar substitutes to achieve the reduced calorie content. While these sweeteners may help reduce the overall calorie count, they can have drawbacks for some individuals. Some people may experience digestive issues, such as bloating or diarrhea, when consuming artificial sweeteners. Additionally, research suggests that regular consumption of artificial sweeteners may disrupt the body's ability to regulate blood sugar levels and could potentially lead to increased cravings for sweet foods.
Another aspect to consider is the sodium content of reduced calorie Italian dressing. Many commercially available salad dressings, including reduced calorie versions, tend to be high in sodium. Excessive sodium intake can contribute to high blood pressure and increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases. It is essential to read the nutrition labels carefully and opt for reduced sodium versions whenever possible. Alternatively, individuals can make their own homemade Italian dressing using fresh ingredients, which allows for better control over the sodium content.
In conclusion, Italian dressing, reduced calorie, offers several nutritional benefits and risks. The primary attribute of reduced calorie makes it a suitable choice for individuals aiming to manage their weight or reduce calorie intake. Additionally, it may contain less fat compared to regular Italian dressing. However, it is crucial to be mindful of the potential risks associated with artificial sweeteners and the high sodium content commonly found in commercially available reduced calorie Italian dressings. As with any food product, moderation and reading nutrition labels are key to making informed dietary choices.