If you're looking for a hearty and delicious soup, Broccoli Cheddar is a classic choice. One serving of 12 oz or 1 bowl of this soup consists of around 360 calories, making it a great option for a filling lunch or dinner.

Along with its wonderful taste and aroma, Broccoli Cheddar soup also contains many essential nutrients that support the body's overall health. It's a great source of vitamins A and C, potassium, calcium, and iron, which can help maintain healthy eyesight, skin, bones, and muscles.

In this article, we'll look into some facts and tips about Broccoli Cheddar soup to help you make an informed decision about this indulgent yet healthy soup.

Calorie breakdown of Broccoli Cheddar Soup

One serving of Broccoli Cheddar soup (12 oz) contains an average of 360 calories. Out of the total calories, around 60% come from fat, 25% from carbohydrates, and the rest from protein. So, if you're watching your calorie intake or looking to shed some weight, it's best to consume this soup in moderation, say once a week. However, if you're an active person or an athlete, you can consume it more frequently to meet your daily calorie needs.

Total fat content in Broccoli Cheddar Soup

One bowl of Broccoli Cheddar soup has a high fat content of around 23 grams. However, not all fats are harmful to the body. This soup contains a moderate amount of healthy unsaturated fats that help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels in the blood while raising HDL (good) cholesterol. If you're concerned about fat intake, you can opt for lower-fat versions of this soup or make it at home using low-fat ingredients.

Carbohydrate and fiber content in Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Broccoli Cheddar soup has a moderate carbohydrate content of 23 grams per serving. Of this total, around 2 grams come from dietary fiber which is essential for maintaining good digestive health and regulating blood sugar levels. To increase the fiber content, you can add more veggies to the soup such as carrots, celery, and spinach, or serve it with a side salad.

Protein content in Broccoli Cheddar Soup

One bowl of Broccoli Cheddar soup contains around 15 grams of protein. Protein is an essential macronutrient that helps build and repair tissues, boost immunity, and maintain muscle mass. To make the soup more protein-rich, you can add some diced chicken or tofu to it, or serve it with some whole-grain bread.

Sodium content in Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Broccoli Cheddar soup is high in sodium content, with around 930 mg per serving. Excess sodium intake can lead to high blood pressure and other cardiovascular conditions. To reduce the sodium content, you can use low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth, limit the use of salt and other seasonings, or make the soup at home with fresh ingredients.

Cholesterol content in Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Broccoli Cheddar soup has a considerable amount of cholesterol, with around 70-80 mg per serving. High cholesterol levels can increase the risk of heart disease and other chronic conditions. To reduce the cholesterol content, you can use low-cholesterol cheese or vegan cheese, or replace some cream with low-fat milk or Greek yogurt.

Vitamins and minerals in Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Broccoli Cheddar soup is packed with essential vitamins and minerals that are integral to good health. One serving can provide up to 80% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin C and 20% of vitamin A, along with significant amounts of calcium, potassium, and iron. These nutrients play a crucial role in building strong bones and teeth, boosting immunity, and carrying out various bodily functions.

Benefits of Eating Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Eating Broccoli Cheddar soup can have numerous health benefits such as improved immunity, better bone health, and lower cholesterol levels. The soup is packed with essential nutrients and antioxidants that fight off diseases and promote overall wellbeing. Besides, it's a tasty and convenient way to get your daily dose of veggies, especially if you're not a big fan of eating raw broccoli or cheese.

Ways to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup Healthier

If you're concerned about the high-fat, high-sodium, or high-cholesterol content of Broccoli Cheddar soup, there are several ways to make it healthier without compromising on taste. You can use fresh, organic ingredients, steam or roast the broccoli beforehand to preserve its nutrients, use low-sodium broth, replace some cream with skim milk or Greek yogurt, and add more vegetables or lean protein to the soup. These simple changes can go a long way in making the soup more wholesome and nutritious.

Low-Calorie Substitutes for Broccoli Cheddar Soup

If you're looking for a low-calorie alternative to Broccoli Cheddar soup, there are several options to choose from that are just as flavorful and satisfying. Some of the best substitutes include vegetable soup, chicken noodle soup, tomato soup, minestrone soup, and lentil soup. These soups pack in essential nutrients, fiber, and protein, while being low in calories and fat compared to Broccoli Cheddar soup.