Cheese, Parmesan, Dry Grated, Fat Free: A Low GI Option

Parmesan cheese is a popular addition to many dishes, from pasta to salads. The fat-free version provides the same distinctive flavor with fewer calories from fat. Let’s explore the nutritional profile and glycemic impact of fat-free, dry grated Parmesan cheese.

Glycemic Index and Glycemic Load

Fat-free Parmesan cheese has a Glycemic Index (GI) of 32, placing it in the low glycemic index category. Foods with a GI below 55 are considered low glycemic options, making this cheese a good choice for those monitoring their blood sugar levels.

The Glycemic Load (GL) is 12.8 for a 100g serving. The glycemic load takes into account both the quality (GI) and quantity of carbohydrates in a portion of food. A GL between 11-19 is considered medium, indicating that while this cheese has a low GI, the carbohydrate content still contributes moderately to blood glucose impact when consumed in this quantity.

Nutritional Profile (per 100g serving)

• Calories: 370 kcal
• Protein: 40g
• Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 1.5g
• Net Carbs: 40g

Health Benefits and Considerations

Fat-free Parmesan cheese is exceptionally high in protein, providing 40g per 100g serving. This makes it an excellent protein source, especially for those following vegetarian diets.

Despite being labeled as “fat-free,” this product still contains some fat (5g per 100g), though significantly less than traditional Parmesan cheese. This reduction in fat contributes to its lower calorie content compared to regular Parmesan.

The carbohydrate content (40g per 100g) is higher than in traditional Parmesan cheese, which typically contains very few carbs. This is likely due to additives used to maintain texture and flavor in the fat-free version.

Ideal For

This fat-free Parmesan cheese is particularly suitable for:

• Those following a reduced-fat diet
• People looking to increase protein intake
• Individuals monitoring blood sugar levels who want to enjoy cheese
• Those seeking flavorful additions to meals with moderate glycemic impact

Serving Suggestions

Consider these ways to incorporate fat-free Parmesan cheese into your meals:

• Sprinkled over whole grain pasta with vegetables
• Added to salads for extra protein and flavor
• Mixed into egg dishes like omelets or frittatas
• Used as a topping for roasted vegetables
• Incorporated into homemade dressings and sauces

Remember that while this cheese has a low glycemic index, portion control is still important due to its moderate glycemic load and calorie content.