Pizza is one of the world's most favorite comfort foods. But did you know that just 1 slice (95g) of Cheese Original Crust Pizza (Small) packs a whopping 240 calories? In this article, we'll explore some practical tips and strategies to better understand the nutritional content of this classic dish.

Besides calories, it's important to understand the full nutritional information of your pizza slice. Here are some key details to keep in mind:

By keeping these nutritional details in mind, you can make more informed choices about how to incorporate pizza into your diet.

Calories per Serving

As previously mentioned, a single slice of Cheese Original Crust Pizza (Small) contains 240 calories. This should be kept in mind when planning your daily caloric intake, as well as your eating plan for the day. Additionally, factors such as your age, sex, physical activity level, and weight goals can all impact how many calories you need to consume on a daily basis. Speaking to a registered dietitian can help you determine how to incorporate pizza (and other foods) into your diet safely and sustainably. Remember, moderation is key - enjoying a slice or two of pizza as part of a balanced diet can help you stay on track in reaching your health and wellness goals.

Fat Content

Each slice of Cheese Original Crust Pizza (Small) contains roughly 9 grams of fat. While fats are an essential macronutrient for the body, it's a good idea to monitor your intake of saturated and trans fats, which can be detrimental to heart health over time. To keep your pizza slice as healthy as possible, opt for lean protein toppings (like chicken or shrimp), extra veggies, and a whole grain crust. Additionally, limiting your consumption of high-fat toppings like pepperoni or sausage can help keep the overall fat content of your pizza slice in check.

Carbohydrate Content

A single slice of Cheese Original Crust Pizza (Small) contains roughly 28 grams of carbohydrates. While carbs are an important source of fuel for the body, it's essential to prioritize complex, whole-food sources (like whole grain pizza crust) over refined, simple carbs like white bread or sugary snacks. Choosing toppings like fresh veggies, sliced fruit, or grilled chicken can help balance out your carb intake and provide long-lasting energy for your day.

Protein Content

Each slice of Cheese Original Crust Pizza (Small) contains 11 grams of protein. Protein is essential for building and maintaining muscle mass, as well as supporting the immune system and overall health. To maximize the nutritional content of your pizza slice, prioritize toppings like grilled chicken, shrimp, or lean steak. Additionally, opting for cheese made from higher quality sources (like grass-fed cows or goats) can help boost the protein content of your meal.

Sodium Content

One slice of Cheese Original Crust Pizza (Small) contains approximately 490 milligrams of sodium. Sodium is an important electrolyte and mineral, but too much can lead to high blood pressure and other health concerns. To keep your sodium levels in check, be mindful of pizza toppings that are high in sodium, like bacon or canned olives. Opting for fresh herbs or spices can add flavor without added sodium. Additionally, choosing lower-sodium cheese options or homemade pizza sauce can help lower the overall sodium content of your pizza slice.

Calcium Content

Believe it or not, pizza can actually be a decent source of calcium! Cheese, one of the staple pizza toppings, is one of the best dietary sources of this important nutrient. Each slice of Cheese Original Crust Pizza (Small) contains approximately 15% of your daily calcium needs. This is great news for those looking to boost their bone health.

Saturated Fat Content

Saturated fats are the fats we should aim to keep to a minimum in our diets. Too much saturated fat can increase our risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes. One slice of Cheese Original Crust Pizza (Small) contains approximately 4.5 grams of saturated fat. To minimize your intake of this unhealthy fat, focus on toppings that are lower in saturated fat, like veggies, lean proteins, or healthy fats like avocado.

Cholesterol Content

Cholesterol is a type of fat found in the blood that has been linked to heart disease and other health concerns. While a moderate intake of cholesterol is not typically associated with major health issues, certain individuals may need to limit their cholesterol intake more strictly. Each slice of Cheese Original Crust Pizza (Small) contains approximately 25 milligrams of cholesterol. To keep your cholesterol levels in check, be mindful of other dietary sources of cholesterol throughout the day.

Fiber Content

Fiber is an important nutrient that supports digestive health, promotes feelings of fullness, and can even lower cholesterol levels. Unfortunately, most pizzas (including Cheese Original Crust Pizza (Small)) are not great sources of fiber. A single slice contains approximately 1 gram of fiber. To boost your fiber intake, be sure to add plenty of fresh veggies to your pizza, or pair your slice with a fiber-rich side dish like a salad or roasted veggies.

Serving Size

It's important to keep in mind that a serving size of pizza (as determined by the USDA) is just 1/8th of a medium pizza. This means that a single slice of Cheese Original Crust Pizza (Small) actually contains over 2 servings of pizza. To better monitor your calorie and nutrient intake, consider splitting your pizza with a friend or family member, or simply savoring 1-2 slices and saving the rest for later.