Sour cream is one of the most popular and familiar to us since childhood. Some people add it to soups and salads, others use it as an ingredient in baked goods, and some use it to make sauces. I tell you what the benefits of the product, who should limit its use and what can be substituted.
Sour cream and sour cream product: what is the difference?
Sour cream is a product obtained from cream with the addition of sourdough starter. It is such a set of ingredients that allows you to call the product with the word “sour cream”.
Now in stores you can find cheaper analogs that are sold under the name “sour cream product”. It can also be called “Vegetable-sour cream product” or “Vegetable-cream sour cream product”. They may contain:
- milk fat substitutes;
- starch;
- butter;
- various additives.
Types of sour cream
Sour cream is divided into several types, each of which depends on the fat content. The most popular are three types:
- low-fat (from 10 to 14%);
- low-fat (from 15 to 19%);
- classic (from 20 to 34%).
Of course, the more fatty the product, the higher the calorie content. For example, 100 g of low-fat sour cream contains 120 kcal, low-fat sour cream contains 160 kcal, and classic sour cream contains more than 200 kcal.
What is the usefulness of sour cream?
The basis of the product is cream. Therefore, sour cream itself is a source of fat, but the protein and carbohydrates in it are noticeably less. It is important to note that it is precisely saturated fats, which are rich in all products of animal origin.
The composition of sour cream includes:
- B vitamins. They are involved in the metabolism of proteins, fats and hematopoiesis. They include biotin contained in sour cream;
- calcium. A very important structural element of bones, affects the excitability of nerve cells and muscle contraction;
- potassium. Participates in metabolism, maintains water-salt and acid-base balance;
- phosphorus. Included in the composition of bone tissue and various enzymes;
- magnesium. Has a positive effect on the excitability of the nervous system;
- sodium. Important for the origin of nerve impulses and the formation of blood plasma pressure;
- retinol. Essential for synthesizing visual pigments and maintaining the health of the skin and mucous membranes.
Is sour cream useful for men?
Many people have probably heard about the fact that sour cream is useful for men. In the composition there is zinc and cholesterol. They participate in the synthesis of testosterone, which has a positive effect on potency.
However, if you eat it without restrictions, you can harm the body. It is necessary to understand: like any other product, it is not a medical drug that can greatly affect health.
Kontraindikacije
Sour cream is a rather fatty and caloric product. Therefore, its amount in the diet should be controlled by people who have excess body weight, who are in the process of weight loss and those who have an intolerance to its components.
In addition, it should be borne in mind that most of the fats in the diet should be derived from unsaturated types, such as vegetable oils, nuts and seeds. It is unsaturated fatty acids that have a positive effect on fat metabolism and reduce the likelihood of cardiovascular disease.
Excessive consumption of fats of animal origin can have a negative impact on health. For example, increase the risk of inflammatory diseases.
Sour cream VS mayonnaise
In terms of calories, of course, sour cream should be favored. It contains about 300 kcal in 100 g (we are talking about 30% fat content), and mayonnaise – 680 kcal.
But here too, the composition and quantity of the product are important. If mayonnaise has a high-quality composition, which includes egg yolks, vegetable oil, mustard, spices, and is consumed in small quantities, there will be no harm to the body.
At the same time, the habit of dressing every dish with this sauce will not lead to good.
How much sour cream a day can be eaten?
One serving of sour cream a day will be enough. The fact is that each person has his own norm of fats, which must be observed. And it is necessary to do this by using different sources of fats. So the diet will be complete and meet individual needs.
The amount of any product should be limited, even if it has a lot of useful properties. Sour cream is no exception. For example, you can add it to soup, and the salad is already dressed with olive oil.
What can be replaced with sour cream?
For those who want to reduce the caloric content of the diet and the fat content of dishes, there are several ways. For example:
- Mix cottage cheese or ricotta and milk to the consistency of liquid sour cream. You can add a small amount of lemon juice or vinegar for a sour flavor;
- buy Greek yogurt without additives.
If it is difficult for you to refuse your favorite product, choose sour cream with a lower fat content.
What rules of storage should be observed?
It is necessary to pay attention to the shelf life of the product and do not use sour cream after its expiration date. This is a very important rule, which many people forget.
Sour cream refers to products with a high moisture content, which can be affected by mold not only on the surface, but also inside. In parallel with this, various bacteria can also be present.
Therefore, always pay attention to the composition, expiration date and try not to overeat, then you will get not only pleasure, but also benefits for the body. Store in the refrigerator in a closed container.