1/4 cup (64 g) Cranberry Sauce contains 110 calories, making it a low-calorie addition to any meal. Cranberry sauce is also a great source of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, which provide many health benefits.

Cranberries are high in vitamin C and fiber, making cranberry sauce a healthy choice. In addition, cranberries contain phytonutrients like anthocyanins, which provide anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer benefits.

In this article, we'll explore some practical tips and strategies for incorporating cranberry sauce into your diet and lifestyle.

Calories in 1/4 cup Cranberry Sauce

A 1/4 cup (64 g) serving of cranberry sauce contains 110 calories, which is relatively low compared to other holiday dishes. However, it is important to remember that cranberry sauce is often paired with other high-calorie foods like turkey and stuffing. Therefore, it is important to monitor your portion sizes to avoid overeating. Overall, 1/4 cup of cranberry sauce is a reasonable serving size that can be included as part of a balanced meal.

Nutritional Value of Cranberry Sauce

In addition to being a good source of vitamin C and fiber, cranberry sauce contains vitamins A, E, and K, as well as minerals like calcium, iron, and potassium. Cranberries also contain proanthocyanidins and quercetin, two powerful antioxidants that promote heart health and reduce inflammation. Overall, cranberry sauce is a nutritious addition to any meal.

Carbohydrates in Cranberry Sauce

A 1/4 cup (64 g) serving of cranberry sauce contains 28 grams of carbohydrates, which come from natural sugars and fiber. The fiber in cranberry sauce helps slow down the absorption of carbohydrates, which keeps blood sugar levels stable. If you are watching your carbohydrate intake, it is important to monitor your portion sizes to avoid consuming too much sugar.

Protein in Cranberry Sauce

A 1/4 cup (64 g) serving of cranberry sauce contains less than 1 gram of protein. To increase the protein content of your meal, try pairing cranberry sauce with protein-rich foods like turkey, chicken, or tofu. Overall, cranberry sauce should be viewed as a flavorful addition to your meal, rather than a primary source of protein.

Fat content in Cranberry Sauce

A 1/4 cup (64 g) serving of cranberry sauce contains less than 1 gram of fat. However, be aware of added fats in store-bought cranberry sauce, which can come from ingredients like sugar, oil, or butter. To ensure you are getting a low-fat option, consider making your own cranberry sauce or reading the labels carefully when purchasing pre-made options.

Sodium in Cranberry Sauce

A 1/4 cup (64 g) serving of cranberry sauce contains 5 milligrams of sodium, which is relatively low compared to other condiments. However, be aware of added salt in store-bought cranberry sauce, which can quickly add up if consumed in large quantities. To ensure you are getting a low-sodium option, consider making your own cranberry sauce or reading the labels carefully when purchasing pre-made options.

Sugar in Cranberry Sauce

A 1/4 cup (64 g) serving of cranberry sauce contains around 20 grams of sugar, which is a combination of natural and added sugars. To limit your sugar intake, consider making your own cranberry sauce or choosing a low-sugar option. Overall, cranberry sauce can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a healthy diet.

Vitamins and Minerals in Cranberry Sauce

In addition to vitamin C and fiber, cranberry sauce contains vitamins A, E, and K, as well as minerals like calcium, iron, and potassium. These nutrients promote healthy digestion, support immune function, and reduce inflammation in the body. Overall, cranberry sauce is a nutritious addition to any meal.

Benefits of Eating Cranberry Sauce

The antioxidants in cranberries, like proanthocyanidins and quercetin, have been shown to improve heart health by reducing blood pressure and lowering cholesterol levels. Cranberry sauce also contains anti-inflammatory compounds that may reduce the risk of chronic diseases like cancer, diabetes, and Alzheimer's. Overall, incorporating cranberry sauce into your diet can provide a wide range of health benefits.

Ways to Use Cranberry Sauce

One of the most common ways to use cranberry sauce is as a condiment for turkey. However, it can also be used as a topping for oatmeal, yogurt, or toast. Cranberry sauce can also be used in baking, like in cranberry muffins or bread pudding. Or, it can be mixed with cream cheese or brie for a festive appetizer. Get creative with how you use cranberry sauce and discover new ways to enjoy this delicious and nutritious ingredient.