If you are a sweet potato pie lover but concerned about the calorie intake, we have some good news for you! 1/2 cup (90 g) of sweet potato pie filling contains around 140 calories, which is quite moderate. It's time to enjoy your dessert without any guilt!
Apart from being a delicious treat, sweet potato pie filling is also rich in nutrients. Let's take a closer look at its nutritional value.
In this article, we'll explore the calorie and nutrient content of sweet potato pie filling, which will help you make an informed decision about including it in your diet.
Calories in Sweet Potato Pie Filling
As mentioned earlier, 1/2 cup (90 g) of sweet potato pie filling contains around 140 calories, which is equivalent to approximately 7% of the daily calorie intake for an average adult on a 2000-calorie diet. It's important to note that the calorie content may vary depending on the ingredients used to prepare the filling, such as the type of sweeteners, milk or cream, and butter. Nevertheless, sweet potato pie filling is still a better dessert option compared to most high-calorie delights.
Fat Content of Sweet Potato Pie Filling
A 1/2 cup (90 g) serving of sweet potato pie filling contains around 2 grams of total fat, which is quite low. It's always a good practice to watch your fat intake and choose low-fat options. However, the fat in sweet potato pie filling is mostly from healthy sources such as the natural fat present in sweet potatoes and minimal amounts from butter or cream, making it a healthier dessert option.
Carbohydrate Content of Sweet Potato Pie Filling
Carbohydrates are the primary source of energy for the body. A 1/2 cup (90 g) serving of sweet potato pie filling contains around 29 grams of carbohydrates, of which 20 grams are sugars. The high sugar content in sweet potato pie filling can be a concern for people with diabetes or those trying to watch their sugar intake. However, the natural sugars from sweet potato can be a healthier option compared to processed or refined sugars from other desserts.
Protein Content of Sweet Potato Pie Filling
Sweet potato pie filling has minimal protein content, with a mere 1 gram per serving. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body, and it's important to consume adequate amounts daily. Therefore, it's a good idea to pair sweet potato pie filling with protein-rich foods such as nuts or Greek yogurt to balance out the nutrient intake.
Fiber Content of Sweet Potato Pie Filling
Fiber is an important nutrient that aids in digestion, regulates blood sugar levels, and promotes satiety. A 1/2 cup (90 g) serving of sweet potato pie filling contains 2 grams of fiber, which is about 8% of the daily requirement. While it may not be a significant source of fiber, every gram counts towards a healthy diet.
Sugar Content of Sweet Potato Pie Filling
We already touched upon the high sugar content in sweet potato pie filling, but why is it a concern? Added sugars in desserts, snacks, and beverages are associated with increased risks of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart diseases. While the natural sugar from sweet potatoes is a better option than processed or refined sugar, it's still important to consume it in moderation.
Vitamin A Content of Sweet Potato Pie Filling
One of the benefits of consuming sweet potato pie filling is its high vitamin A content. Vitamin A is a crucial nutrient for maintaining healthy eyesight, immune function, and skin health. A 1/2 cup (90 g) serving of sweet potato pie filling contains around 135% of the daily requirement of vitamin A, making it a potent source of the vitamin.
Vitamin C Content of Sweet Potato Pie Filling
Vitamin C is another essential vitamin that acts as an antioxidant, boosts immune function, and aids in collagen production. While sweet potato pie filling doesn't contain a significant amount of vitamin C, a 1/2 cup (90 g) serving has around 6% of the daily requirement.
Calcium Content of Sweet Potato Pie Filling
Calcium is crucial for maintaining strong bones, teeth, and muscle function. Unfortunately, sweet potato pie filling is not a significant source of calcium, with only 2% of the daily requirement per serving. It's important to remember that desserts are not a reliable source of essential nutrients and should be consumed in moderation.
Iron Content of Sweet Potato Pie Filling
Iron is an essential mineral that plays a vital role in producing hemoglobin and carrying oxygen throughout the body. A 1/2 cup (90 g) serving of sweet potato pie filling contains around 2% of the daily requirement of iron. While it's not a significant source of iron, it's still a welcome addition as every little bit counts towards a healthy diet.
Eat dessert first, life is uncertain.
5 Frequently Asked Questions about Sweet Potato Pie Filling
1. What are the ingredients in sweet potato pie filling?
Sweet potato pie filling typically consists of sweet potatoes, sugar, milk or cream, eggs, and various spices and flavorings such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract.
2. Is sweet potato pie filling healthy?
Sweet potato pie filling can be a healthy option as sweet potatoes are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, C, and potassium. However, the addition of sugar and other sweeteners can add calories and negate some of the health benefits. It's best to consume sweet potato pie filling in moderation.
3. How can I use sweet potato pie filling?
Sweet potato pie filling can be used as a filling for pies, tarts, or turnovers. It can also be used as a topping for oatmeal, pancakes, or waffles. Additionally, pureed sweet potato pie filling can be used as a base for soups or stews.
4. Can I make my own sweet potato pie filling?
Yes, you can make your own sweet potato pie filling by cooking and mashing sweet potatoes and mixing them with sugar, milk or cream, eggs, and any desired spices or flavorings.
5. How do I store sweet potato pie filling?
If you have leftover sweet potato pie filling, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. You can also freeze the filling for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before using it.