If you're a fan of pizza and looking for a quick snack, you might be tempted to reach for Pizzasticks. One stick, which weighs 72 g, contains about 170 calories. But are these snacks a healthy option for you? Let's take a closer look at the nutritional information of these tasty treats.
Besides providing you with energy, 1 stick of Pizzasticks contains 21 g of carbohydrates, 6 g of protein, and 7 g of fat. It also contains about 1.8 g of sugar, 0.4 g of dietary fiber, and 360 mg of sodium.
In this article, we'll explore the calorie count, the nutritional value, and the impact of Pizzasticks on your weight loss goals. We'll also provide some helpful tips and alternatives to help you make healthier choices when snacking on Pizzasticks.
The calorie count of Pizzasticks
As mentioned earlier, 1 stick (72 g) Pizzasticks contains approximately 170 calories. That's about 8.5% of the daily calorie intake recommended for an average adult. However, it's essential to keep in mind that every person's caloric needs vary based on their age, gender, weight, and activity levels. If you're concerned about your calorie intake, it's crucial to keep track of your daily calorie consumption and factor in the amount of Pizzastick you eat accordingly. You can visit the USDA's website or use a calorie tracking app to help you do this. It's also important to note that the calorie count of Pizzasticks can vary depending on the brand and the toppings used.
In addition to calories, it's important to consider the nutritional value of Pizzasticks. As previously mentioned, 1 stick of Pizzasticks contains 21 g of carbohydrates, 6 g of protein, and 7 g of fat. It's also worth noting that the saturated fat content of one Pizzastick is 3 g, which contributes to 15% of the daily recommended value. While Pizzasticks do contain some essential nutrients like calcium and iron, they are also high in sodium. One stick contains 360 mg of sodium, which is 15% of the daily recommended amount. Excessive sodium intake can lead to high blood pressure, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. It's important to consume Pizzasticks in moderation and pair them with healthier snack options like fresh fruits or veggies.
What's in a stick of Pizzasticks?
A stick of Pizzasticks typically contains a mixture of dough, tomato sauce, cheese, and various toppings such as pepperoni or vegetables. Some Pizzastick brands might also add preservatives, flavor enhancers, or artificial coloring, which can affect the nutritional value of the snack. When choosing a Pizzastick brand, it's essential to read the ingredient list and choose one that doesn't contain excessive amounts of sugar, sodium, or saturated fats.
How does 1 stick of Pizzasticks fit into a balanced diet?
Incorporating Pizzasticks into a balanced diet can be possible, but it requires careful planning and portion control. One Pizzastick can serve as a treat, as long as it is balanced with other healthy foods. For example, if you plan to eat a Pizzastick as a snack, you can pair it with some cut-up fruit or veggies, or even some hummus and crackers. It's important to remember that a balanced diet includes a variety of foods from all food groups, including lean protein, fruits and veggies, whole grains, and healthy fats.
Are Pizzasticks a healthy snack option?
Pizzasticks can be a tasty snack, but they are not the healthiest option. They are high in calories, saturated fat, and sodium, which can put you at risk for various health problems if eaten in large quantities regularly. If you're looking for a healthy snack, consider options like raw nuts, fresh fruits, veggies and hummus, or air-popped popcorn instead.
How many sticks of Pizzasticks can you eat without going over your daily calorie intake?
The number of Pizzasticks you can eat without exceeding your daily calorie intake depends on your age, gender, weight, and activity levels. On average, an adult should consume between 1,600-2,400 calories a day. Assuming that you consume 2,000 calories daily, you could enjoy about 11-12 Pizzasticks per day without exceeding your daily calorie limit. However, it's essential to keep in mind that Pizzasticks do not provide many necessary nutrients and are high in salt, so you should limit your intake for your overall health's sake.
Alternatives to Pizzasticks for a lower calorie snack
If you're looking for low calorie snack options, there are many alternatives to Pizzasticks that you can try. Here are some examples:
- Carrots or celery sticks with hummus
- Apple slices with peanut butter
- Popcorn (no butter or salt added)
- Rice cakes with sliced turkey and mustard
- Hard boiled eggs
- Plain Greek yogurt with berries
- Edamame
How to make healthier choices when snacking on Pizzasticks
If you're in the mood for Pizzasticks, you can make healthier choices by following the tips below:
- Choose a brand that uses whole-grain crust, low-fat cheese, and fresh tomato sauce
- Opt for vegetable toppings like mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers instead of pepperoni or sausage
- Avoid dipping sauces or extra cheese, which can add calories, fat, and sodium to your snack
- Pair your Pizzastick with some fresh veggies or fruit to increase your fiber intake and keep you fuller for longer
- Limit your intake to one Pizzastick per day or less
The impact of Pizzasticks on weight loss
If you're trying to lose weight, incorporating Pizzasticks into your diet may not be the best idea. They are high in calories, sodium, and fat, which can slow down your weight loss progress if eaten regularly in large amounts. However, if you're craving Pizzasticks, you can still enjoy them occasionally as a treat or by following the tips mentioned above to make healthier choices when snacking on them.
How to incorporate Pizzasticks into your diet in moderation
If you're a fan of Pizzasticks, you can still enjoy them by incorporating them into your diet in moderation. Here are some tips to help you do this:
- Limit your intake to one Pizzastick per day or less
- Pair your Pizzastick with some fresh veggies or fruit to increase your fiber intake and keep you fuller for longer
- Choose a brand that uses whole-grain crust, low-fat cheese, and fresh tomato sauce
- Opt for vegetable toppings like mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers instead of pepperoni or sausage
- Avoid dipping sauces or extra cheese, which can add calories, fat, and sodium to your snack
All foods can fit into a balanced diet, but it's essential to consume Pizzasticks in moderation and pair them with healthier snack options like fresh fruits or veggies.
5 FAQ About Pizzasticks
1. What are Pizzasticks?
Pizzasticks are a popular snack food made from pizza dough that has been rolled into sticks, baked and seasoned with a variety of herbs and spices.
2. How many calories are in one stick of Pizzasticks?
One stick of Pizzasticks (72 g) contains about 170 calories, making it a relatively low-calorie snack option.
3. Are Pizzasticks a healthy snack?
Pizzasticks can be a healthy snack option if consumed in moderate amounts as they are low in calories and can provide some nutritional benefits such as protein from the dough and vitamins from the herbs and spices used for seasoning. However, it is important to watch the portion sizes and to choose healthier dipping sauces such as tomato sauce or hummus.
4. Can Pizzasticks be stored for later consumption?
Yes, Pizzasticks can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen and reheated in an oven or toaster for a quick and easy snack option.
5. Are there any allergens present in Pizzasticks?
Pizzasticks may contain common allergens such as wheat, milk, and soy. It is important to check the ingredient list carefully if you have any food allergies or intolerances.