If you're a cheese lover, you probably enjoy adding a little Monterey cheese to your meals. But have you ever wondered about its nutritional value? In this article, we take a closer look at the calorie content and other important information about 1 cup of NFS Monterey cheese, so you can make more informed choices about what you eat.

According to the USDA, 1 cup of NFS Monterey cheese contains 421 calories, making it a relatively high-calorie food. However, it also provides several important macronutrients and micronutrients, as we'll explore in the following sections.

Whether you're looking to monitor your calorie intake, increase your calcium and protein intake, or just find new ways to enjoy this versatile cheese, there's something for everyone in this article. Let's get started!

Calorie Content

As we mentioned earlier, 1 cup of NFS Monterey cheese contains 421 calories. This makes it a relatively high-calorie food compared to many other types of cheese. If you're trying to manage your calorie intake, you may want to be mindful of how much Monterey cheese you consume. However, it's worth noting that not all calories are created equal. Some studies suggest that high-quality protein and healthy fats, like those found in cheese, can help you feel fuller for longer and may even aid weight loss efforts. Ultimately, the key is to enjoy NFS Monterey cheese in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Protein

In addition to its calorie content, NFS Monterey cheese is a good source of protein. 1 cup of this cheese contains around 31 grams of protein, which is more than you would get from the same amount of some other cheeses. Protein is important for a range of bodily functions, including building and repairing tissues, supporting immune function, and even contributing to healthy bone density. If you're looking to increase your overall protein intake, NFS Monterey cheese can be a tasty and nutritious way to do so. Just be mindful of the high calorie content, and consider pairing your cheese with other high-protein foods like nuts, seeds, and legumes.

Fat Content

Like many types of cheese, NFS Monterey cheese is relatively high in fat. 1 cup of this cheese contains around 32 grams of fat, with around 20 grams of that being saturated fat. While saturated fat has been linked to increased risk of heart disease, it's worth noting that not all saturated fats are created equal. Some studies suggest that dairy fat, like that found in cheese, may actually be less harmful than other forms of saturated fat. That being said, if you're looking to monitor your fat intake, NFS Monterey cheese may not be the best choice for you. Consider opting for lower-fat cheeses or using smaller portions of this cheese in your meals.

Calcium

One of the key benefits of cheese, including NFS Monterey cheese, is its high calcium content. 1 cup of this cheese contains around 880 milligrams of calcium, which is around 88% of the daily recommended intake for adults. Calcium is essential for healthy bones, teeth, and muscles. If you're looking to increase your calcium intake, adding more cheese to your diet can be a helpful strategy. However, be mindful of the calorie and fat content of cheese, and consider pairing it with other calcium-rich foods like leafy greens, tofu, and fortified plant milks.

Sodium

One potential downside of cheese, including NFS Monterey cheese, is its high sodium content. 1 cup of this cheese contains around 1,208 milligrams of sodium, which is over half of the daily recommended intake for adults. While some sodium is necessary for bodily functions, too much can contribute to high blood pressure and other health issues. If you're looking to monitor your sodium intake, be mindful of how much cheese you consume and consider opting for lower-sodium varieties. You can also pair your cheese with low-sodium foods like fresh vegetables to balance out the sodium content and support overall health.

Cholesterol

NFS Monterey cheese is also relatively high in cholesterol, with 1 cup containing around 103 milligrams. While dietary cholesterol is not as harmful as previously believed, it's still important to monitor your intake, particularly if you have high cholesterol levels or a family history of heart disease. Consider pairing your cheese with other heart-healthy foods like fresh fruits and vegetables and getting regular exercise to support overall heart health.

Macronutrients

In addition to the specific macronutrients we've mentioned already, NFS Monterey cheese contains other important nutrients like carbohydrates and fiber. While cheese is not a significant source of carbs or fiber, it's worth noting that these nutrients play important roles in supporting overall health and wellness. If you're looking to increase your fiber intake specifically, consider pairing your cheese with high-fiber foods like whole grains, beans, and fruits.

Micronutrients

In addition to macronutrients, NFS Monterey cheese contains several important micronutrients like vitamin D, vitamin B12, and zinc. Vitamin D is important for healthy bones and immune function, while vitamin B12 is essential for nerve function and the production of red blood cells. Zinc is important for immune function and wound healing. While cheese is not a significant source of these nutrients, incorporating it into a varied and balanced diet can help support overall nutrition.

Uses and Recipes

NFS Monterey cheese can be used in a wide variety of recipes, from classic mac and cheese to omelets, quesadillas, and grilled cheese sandwiches. Consider pairing it with other nutritious ingredients like vegetables, lean protein sources, and whole grains to make your meals more filling and balanced. You can also experiment with different types of cheese to find the ones that you enjoy the most and that fit well with your nutritional goals.

Health Risks

While NFS Monterey cheese can be a nutritious addition to many diets, it's worth noting that some people may be more sensitive to its high fat, sodium, and cholesterol content. If you have a history of heart disease, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol, you may want to monitor your intake of this and other high-fat cheeses. Additionally, those with lactose intolerance or milk allergies should be cautious about consuming cheese and may want to opt for lactose-free or plant-based cheeses instead.