If you're a fan of Italian cuisine, then you know that a little grated parmesan cheese goes a long way in adding flavor to your favorite dishes. But have you ever wondered about the nutritional value of this tasty cheese? 1 serving (28 g) of grated parmesan cheese contains approximately 120 calories.
In addition to the calorie content, grated parmesan cheese contains a variety of nutrients, including fat, protein, and carbohydrates. Let's take a closer look at what's inside this popular cheese.
In this article, we'll explore the nutritional value of grated parmesan cheese, as well as its impact on heart health, weight loss, bone health, and digestion. We'll also share some tips on the best ways to incorporate grated parmesan cheese into your meals.
Number of Calories in Grated Parmesan Cheese
As mentioned earlier, one serving (28 g) of grated parmesan cheese contains approximately 120 calories. This may not seem like a lot, but if you're watching your calorie intake, it's important to keep track of how much cheese you're consuming. It's also worth noting that the calorie content can vary depending on the brand of cheese and how finely it is grated.
Fat Content in Grated Parmesan Cheese
Grated parmesan cheese is relatively high in fat, with one serving containing about 9 grams. However, the majority of the fat in parmesan cheese is in the form of healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. These fats can actually help lower cholesterol levels and reduce your risk of heart disease.
Protein Content in Grated Parmesan Cheese
One serving of grated parmesan cheese contains approximately 10 grams of protein. For vegetarians and others who may be looking for non-meat sources of protein, grated parmesan cheese can be a good option. It's also a great way to add a bit of extra protein to your favorite pasta dishes.
Amount of Carbohydrates in Grated Parmesan Cheese
Grated parmesan cheese is relatively low in carbohydrates, with one serving containing only 1 gram. This makes it a good option for those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet.
Key Vitamins and Minerals in Grated Parmesan Cheese
Grated parmesan cheese is a good source of several key vitamins and minerals, including calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin B12. Calcium is important for bone health, while vitamin A is essential for vision and immune function. Vitamin B12 is important for brain function and the production of red blood cells. Adding a bit of grated parmesan cheese to your meals can help boost your nutrient intake.
Calories and Heart Health
While grated parmesan cheese is relatively high in calories and fat, it can still be part of a healthy diet in moderation. The monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats in parmesan cheese can actually help lower your levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol, which can reduce your risk of heart disease. However, it's important to keep portion sizes in mind and not go overboard with the cheese.
Best Ways to Add Grated Parmesan Cheese to Your Meals
Grated parmesan cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in numerous ways to add flavor to your favorite meals. You can sprinkle it on top of pasta dishes or salads, add it to soups or stews for added richness, or even use it as a topping for pizza. Just be sure to use it in moderation and keep an eye on your total calorie and fat intake for the day.
Parmesan Cheese and Weight Loss
While grated parmesan cheese is relatively high in calories and fat, it can still be part of a healthy diet in moderation. In fact, adding a bit of grated parmesan cheese to your meals can help you feel more satisfied and may even help you eat less overall. Just be sure to keep portion sizes in mind and balance your intake with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and other nutrient-rich foods.
Parmesan Cheese and Bone Health
One of the key nutrients found in grated parmesan cheese is calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth. However, it's important to note that parmesan cheese is relatively high in sodium, which can contribute to bone loss if consumed in excess. To maintain strong bones, it's important to balance your calcium intake with other bone-healthy nutrients like vitamin D, magnesium, and potassium.
Parmesan Cheese and Digestion
Some people may find that eating too much grated parmesan cheese can cause digestive issues like bloating or constipation. This may be due to the high fat and sodium content of the cheese, as well as the fact that it is a dairy product. If you experience digestive issues after eating parmesan cheese, try reducing your intake or switching to a lower-fat or non-dairy alternative.
“A cheese may disappoint. It may be dull, it may be naive, it may be oversophisticated. Yet it remains cheese, milk's leap toward immortality.” - Clifton Fadiman
FAQ about Grated Parmesan Cheese
1. What is grated Parmesan cheese?
Grated Parmesan cheese is a hard, Italian cheese made from cow's milk. It is usually aged for 12-36 months, which gives it a sharp and salty flavor.
2. How is grated Parmesan cheese made?
Grated Parmesan cheese is made by shredding or grating the hard block of cheese. The cheese is usually aged and dried before it is grated, which gives it a unique texture and flavor.
3. What are the health benefits of grated Parmesan cheese?
Grated Parmesan cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, which are essential for strong bones and muscles. It also contains vitamins A and B12, which are important for maintaining healthy skin, hair, and nervous system.
4. How can grated Parmesan cheese be used in cooking?
Grated Parmesan cheese can be used in a variety of dishes, including pasta, pizza, salads, and soups. It can also be sprinkled on top of roasted vegetables or used as a flavoring for bread crumbs.
5. Is grated Parmesan cheese suitable for vegetarians?
Most commercially available grated Parmesan cheese is made with animal rennet, which is not suitable for vegetarians. However, some brands do use vegetable rennet, so it's important to check the label if you're a vegetarian.