1/4 cup (28 g) Finely Shredded Mild Cheddar Cheese contains 110 calories, making it a popular choice for those who want to add some flavor to their dishes without adding too many calories.

Apart from its taste, cheddar cheese also provides some key nutrients like protein, calcium, and vitamin D. However, it is also high in fat and sodium, so it's important to consume it in moderation.

In this article, we'll explore the nutritional value of cheddar cheese and some ways to incorporate it into your diet.

Calories in Finely Shredded Cheddar Cheese

A 1/4 cup (28 g) serving of finely shredded mild cheddar cheese contains approximately 110 calories. This may vary a little depending on the brand and the exact type of cheese, so it's always good to check the label. In terms of macronutrients, cheddar cheese is mainly composed of fat and protein, with a small amount of carbohydrates.

Fat Content

As mentioned, cheddar cheese is high in fat, with a 1/4 cup serving providing around 9 grams of fat. While some types of fat are considered healthy, such as those found in nuts and avocados, cheddar cheese contains mostly saturated fat, which is linked to heart disease when consumed in excess. Therefore, it's important to limit your intake of cheddar cheese and choose other sources of fat, such as olive oil or fatty fish, for the majority of your fat intake.

Carbohydrate Content

Cheddar cheese is not a significant source of carbohydrates, with a 1/4 cup serving providing less than 1 gram. Therefore, it's a good option for those following a low-carb diet.

Protein Content

Cheddar cheese is a good source of protein, with a 1/4 cup serving providing around 7 grams. Protein is important for building and repairing tissues, as well as for maintaining muscle mass.

Sodium Content

Cheddar cheese is also high in sodium, with a 1/4 cup serving providing around 180 mg. Sodium is important for regulating fluid balance in the body, but consuming too much can lead to high blood pressure, which is a risk factor for heart disease. Therefore, it's important to limit your sodium intake and choose low-sodium options whenever possible.

Calcium Content

Cheddar cheese is a good source of calcium, with a 1/4 cup serving providing around 200 mg. Calcium is important for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth, as well as for muscle function and nerve transmission.

Cholesterol Content

Cheddar cheese is high in cholesterol, with a 1/4 cup serving providing around 30 mg. While cholesterol is important for some bodily functions, such as hormone production, consuming too much can increase the risk of heart disease. Therefore, it's recommended to limit your intake of cholesterol and choose low-cholesterol options whenever possible.

Vitamin Content

Cheddar cheese is a good source of several vitamins, including vitamin A and vitamin D. Vitamin A is important for eye health, while vitamin D is important for bone health and immune function.

Benefits of Cheddar Cheese

While cheddar cheese should be consumed in moderation due to its high fat and sodium content, it does have some potential health benefits when consumed as part of a balanced diet. For example, the protein and calcium in cheddar cheese can help build and maintain strong bones and muscles. It may also be beneficial for weight management, as the protein and fat in cheese can help you feel fuller for longer periods of time. Additionally, some studies suggest that consuming moderate amounts of cheese may be linked to a reduced risk of heart disease and stroke, though more research is needed in this area.

Ways to Incorporate Cheddar Cheese in Your Diet

Cheddar cheese can be a tasty and convenient addition to many meals and snacks. Here are some ideas for incorporating it into your diet:

• Sprinkle it over salads or roasted vegetables for added flavor and texture.
• Use it as a topping for baked potatoes or chili.
• Melt it over whole-grain toast or crackers for a quick and easy snack.
• Add it to omelettes or scrambled eggs for a protein-packed breakfast.
• Make a grilled cheese sandwich with whole-grain bread and some veggies for added fiber.