The Nutrition Profile and Health Benefits of Kraft Fat Free Cheddar Cheese

The Benefits and Nutrition Facts of Kraft Fat Free Cheddar Cheese

Cheese can be a delicious and nutritious addition to a healthy diet when consumed in moderation. With a wide variety of cheeses to choose from, it can be difficult to identify which options are best for your needs. Kraft fat free cheddar cheese is a smart choice for those looking to reduce fat and calories without sacrificing taste and nutrition.

Cheddar cheese is one of the most popular cheeses worldwide. Traditional cheddar is high in fat and calories, with around 110 calories and 9 grams of fat per ounce. Switching to a fat free version can slash the fat and calorie content dramatically. Kraft fat free cheddar cheese cuts the fat to 0 grams and reduces the calories to around 45 calories per ounce. This makes it an ideal choice for those watching their weight or managing conditions like diabetes or high cholesterol.

Nutrition Facts of Kraft Fat Free Cheddar Cheese

Here is a breakdown of the nutrition facts found in a 1-ounce serving of Kraft fat free cheddar cheese:

• Calories: 45
• Total fat: 0g
• Saturated fat: 0g
• Trans fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 15mg
• Sodium: 190mg
• Total carbs: 2g
• Dietary fiber: 0g
• Sugars: less than 1g
• Protein: 7g
• Calcium: 200mg

As you can see, Kraft fat free cheddar cheese is significantly lower in fat, calories, and cholesterol compared to regular cheddar. It still retains an impressive amount of protein and calcium too.

Benefits of Choosing Fat Free Cheese

Here are some of the top benefits of switching to fat free cheddar or other reduced fat cheese options:

• Lower in calories and fat - Fat free cheddar contains about 1/3 the calories and is 100% fat free.
• Reduces saturated fat - Since saturated fat can negatively impact cholesterol levels and heart health, eliminating it is ideal.
• Higher in protein - With 7g of protein per ounce, it can help keep you feeling fuller longer.
• Rich in calcium - Calcium is essential for bone health and fat free cheddar provides 20% of your RDI per ounce.
• More diet friendly - The fewer calories allow it to more easily fit into a reduced calorie diet.
• Blood sugar friendly - Low in carbs and calories, its a good choice for people with diabetes.
• Lactose free - Kraft fat free cheddar is lactose free, making it easier to digest for those with lactose intolerance.

You still get that classic cheddar flavor, just in a healthier package. The fat free variety melts, tastes, and feels like regular cheddar cheese. It can be seamlessly incorporated into quesadillas, burgers, sandwiches, salads, and any cheesy recipe.

Nutrients in Kraft Fat Free Cheddar Cheese

Lets take a more in depth look at some of the key nutrients provided in Kraft fat free cheddar cheese.

Protein

Protein is vital for building and repairing muscle tissue, supporting a healthy immune system, and keeping you feeling full. With 7g of protein per 1-ounce serving, fat free cheddar is a great source of this essential nutrient. The protein is complete, meaning it provides all 9 essential amino acids our bodies cant make.

Calcium

Known for building strong bones and teeth, calcium also supports proper nerve and muscle function. Kraft fat free cheddar cheese contains 200mg or 20% DV of calcium per ounce. Consuming enough calcium may protect against osteoporosis over time.

Phosphorus

Phosphorus works closely with calcium to develop and maintain healthy bones and teeth. About 10% DV of phosphorus is found in each 1-ounce portion of Kraft fat free cheddar. Phosphorus is also necessary for proper utilization of nutrients, waste removal, growth, and repair processes.

Vitamin A

Around 10% of the daily vitamin A needs are met in a 1-ounce serving. Vitamin A promotes good vision, reproductive health, helps the heart, lungs and kidneys work properly, and assists the immune system. Many cheeses are sources of vitamin A, though fat free varieties contain less.

Vitamin B12

Also called cobalamin, vitamin B12 is important for red blood cell formation, neurological function, DNA synthesis, and energy metabolism. With 10-15% DV per ounce, fat free cheddar can help you meet your daily vitamin B12 needs.

Ways to Eat Kraft Fat Free Cheddar Cheese

Here are some tasty ways to enjoy the flavor and nutrition of Kraft fat free cheddar cheese:

• Sprinkle shredded cheese on salads, chili, eggs, tacos, or avocado toast
• Stir cheese into scrambled eggs, omelets, frittatas, or quiches
• Add melted cheese to burgers, sandwiches, wraps, or flatbread pizza
• Mix into macaroni and cheese, potatoes, rice, pasta, or casseroles
• Top pizza, nachos, baked potatoes, chili, or soups
• Blend into dips like queso, spinach artichoke dip, or beer cheese
• Fill omelets, crepes, or twice-baked potatoes
• Coat vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or cauliflower before baking

The possibilities are nearly endless! It can be used anywhere regular cheddar cheese is called for. Just watch your portions and enjoy in moderation as part of a healthy lifestyle.

Kraft Fat Free Cheddar Cheese and Diabetes

For people with diabetes, being mindful of carbohydrates is key to managing blood sugar levels. With just 2g of carbs per serving, Kraft fat free cheddar is low carb and pairs well with non-starchy vegetables and protein foods.

Cheese is often considered a "slow carb" due to its protein and fat. This means it helps maintain steady blood sugar rather than spiking it rapidly. Opting for reduced fat varieties like fat free cheddar removes concerns over saturated fat while providing diabetes-friendly nutrition.

Here are some tips for incorporating Kraft fat free cheddar cheese into a diabetic diet:

• Enjoy 1-2 ounces at a time and track portions
• Combine with non-starchy veggies like spinach, cauliflower, broccoli, kale, tomatoes, zucchini, etc.
• Add to omelets made with omega-3 rich eggs and vegetables
• Use it to top salads with grilled chicken or salmon for protein
• Mix into Greek yogurt along with chia seeds for a protein boost
• Sprinkle on roasted Brussels sprouts or stuffed peppers
• Have with an apple or berries for fiber and antioxidants

Be sure to consume cheese as part of meals that contain healthy carbs from fruits, veggies, and whole grains. Pairing it with protein and fiber is beneficial for controlling blood sugar spikes. Those with diabetes should discuss personalized meal plans and portion sizes with their doctor or dietitian.

Weight Loss Benefits of Kraft Fat Free Cheddar Cheese

Shedding excess pounds comes down to creating a calorie deficit by eating fewer calories than you burn. Substituting high fat foods with lower calorie options can help facilitate weight loss over time.

With just 45 calories per ounce, Kraft fat free cheddar cheese can be a smart substitution. Regular cheddar has about 110 calories and 9 grams of fat per ounce. By opting for the fat free version, you slash calories and fat to make

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.