Gingerbread houses are delightful holiday treats that combine the art of baking and the joy of decoration. While they are primarily known for their festive appearance and mouthwatering aroma, it’s essential to understand the nutritional content they provide. In this article, we will delve into the nutrition facts of a gingerbread house, analyzing its serving size, calories, fat content, carbohydrates, fiber, protein, and essential minerals.
Can You Buy Gingerbread Houses With EBT?
Yes, you can buy Gingerbread houses with EBT because SNAP allows this kind of dessert as food with nutritional value. SNAP benefits are intended to help individuals and families with low incomes access various essential and nutritious food options.
SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits are intended to help low-income individuals and families access essential and nutritious food. While specific eligible food items may vary by state, here is a general list of common food categories that are typically eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits:
- Fruits and Vegetables: Fresh, canned, frozen, or dried fruits and vegetables without added sugars, fats, or oils.
- Grains: Bread, rice, pasta, cereals, and other grain products, with a preference for whole grains.
- Dairy Products: Milk, cheese, yogurt, and other dairy items low in fat or fat-free.
- Protein Foods: Meat, poultry, fish, eggs, beans, peas, lentils, tofu, and other protein-rich foods.
- Non-Alcoholic Beverages: Water, fruit juices, milk, and other non-alcoholic drinks.
- Snack Foods: Some states allow purchasing healthier snack options like nuts, seeds, and popcorn.
- Baby Food: Infant formula, cereals, fruits, vegetables, and other items.
- Seeds and Plants: Some states permit the purchase of seeds and plants to grow food at home.
Many people are surprised to see that desserts, such as cakes, are eligible for SNAP benefits and can be bought using an EBT card.
Many people think that cakes and desserts do not have nutritional value, but it is a mistake. Let us analyze that in-depth:
Gingerbread House Nutrition Facts
- Serving Size: 1 house (1170g grams)
- Calories: 4757
- Total Fat: 120g grams (154% Daily Value)
- Saturated Fat: 34g grams (170% Daily Value)
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 16g grams
- Monounsaturated Fat: 64g grams
- Cholesterol: 0mg milligrams (0% Daily Value)
- Sodium: 3743mg milligrams (163% Daily Value)
- Total Carbohydrates: 900g grams (327% Daily Value)
- Dietary Fiber: 17g grams (61% Daily Value)
- Sugars: 451g grams
- Protein: 37g grams
- Potassium: 2773mg milligrams (59% Daily Value)
Serving Size and Caloric Content
A typical gingerbread house weighs approximately 1170 grams, constituting a single serving. This serving contains 4757 calories. These figures should be considered when incorporating a gingerbread house into your diet, particularly if you monitor your daily caloric intake.
Fat Content
Gingerbread houses contain a significant amount of fat, with a total fat content of 120 grams per serving. This accounts for approximately 154% of the recommended daily value. The saturated fat within the gingerbread house amounts to 34 grams, contributing to 170% of the recommended daily value. Additionally, it contains 16 grams of polyunsaturated fat and 64 grams of monounsaturated fat.
Cholesterol and Sodium
Unlike many other baked goods, gingerbread houses do not contain any cholesterol, making them a cholesterol-free option. However, the sodium content should be considered, as each serving contains 3743 milligrams, constituting 163% of the recommended daily value. Therefore, individuals with sodium-restricted diets should be cautious when consuming gingerbread houses.
Carbohydrates and Fiber
Gingerbread houses are rich in carbohydrates, providing 900 grams per serving, representing 327% of the recommended daily value. However, 17 grams of this carbohydrate content are dietary fiber, contributing 61% of the recommended daily value. Fiber is an essential nutrient that aids digestion and promotes a healthy gut.
Sugars and Protein
The sweetness of gingerbread houses stems from their sugar content. Each serving contains a substantial 451 grams of sugar. Although sugar can provide a quick energy boost, it’s essential to consume it in moderation, as excessive sugar intake can adversely affect health. Regarding protein, gingerbread houses offer 37 grams per serving, providing a moderate source of this essential nutrient.
Potassium
Gingerbread houses also contain potassium, essential for maintaining electrolyte balance and supporting various bodily functions. Each serving offers 2773 milligrams of potassium, representing 59% of the recommended daily value.
Conclusion
While gingerbread houses are a delightful holiday tradition, consuming them in moderation is crucial due to their high caloric content, fat, sugar, and sodium levels. Enjoying a gingerbread house as an occasional treat can be a part of a balanced diet, especially when combined with regular exercise and a focus on overall nutrition. And use your EBT to make purchases at grocery stores!
As an avid reader of cookbooks and professional chef blog posts, I will try to create helpful articles.
I enjoy researching different food industry topics such as sustainability in farming practices, health benefits of certain ingredients, food marketing tactics used by large companies, etc. This helps him stay informed on the latest nutrition news and develop a deeper understanding of how our food choices can directly impact our overall health and well-being.
As someone who truly values good quality food combined with nutritional awareness, I hope to inspire others by highlighting healthy food and offering the best deals from stores and restaurants.
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