If you’re a pizza lover, then Blaze Pizza is probably on your list of go-to places for quick and tasty pies. But when it comes to making healthy food choices, the question that often pops up in our minds is “Is Blaze Pizza Healthy?”
With so many tempting toppings, sauces, and crust options available, it can be hard to determine whether or not this fast-casual chain fits into a balanced and nutritious diet. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at the various factors that contribute to Blaze Pizza’s healthiness (or lack thereof) and help you make an informed decision about your next meal there.
“The food you eat can either be the safest and most powerful form of medicine or the slowest form of poison.” -Ann Wigmore
We’ll explore topics like the nutritional content of Blaze’s ingredients, how to build a more healthful Blaze Pizza creation, and the potential impact of consuming too much processed and high-calorie foods regularly. Additionally, we’ll share tips on dining out mindfully and enjoying your meals without guilt.
Whether you’re a loyal fan of Blaze Pizza or just curious about its health profile, keep reading to discover everything you need to know before biting into another slice!
What Makes Blaze Pizza Stand Out?
Fast and Customizable
One thing that sets Blaze Pizza apart is their fast service combined with the ability to customize your order. You can choose from a variety of toppings, including vegetables and lean proteins, to create a pizza that fits your taste preferences and dietary needs.
Their assembly line-style service means that your pizza is ready in just a few minutes, making it a great option for lunch or a quick dinner on the go. This speed also makes it easy to eat at home without having to wait long periods for delivery!
“Blaze Pizza makes fast-fire’d artisanal pizzas fueled by a commitment to sustainability, creativity & individuality.” -Blaze Pizza Instagram
But what about the healthiness of the options you choose? Let’s take a look at some of the ingredients offered at Blaze Pizza.
Quality Ingredients
Blaze Pizza uses fresh, high-quality ingredients, which is always a good sign when it comes to healthy eating. They even offer gluten-free crust options made with rice flour, tapioca starch, and potato starch.
Their signature “Simple Pie” topped with mozzarella, parmesan, and red sauce clocks in at only 650 calories for an entire pizza, making it easy to fit into your daily calorie intake while still enjoying a delicious meal.
Another great feature of Blaze Pizza is their online nutrition calculator. It allows you to input all of your chosen ingredients, so you know exactly how many calories you’re consuming, as well as other key nutritional information like protein, fat, and carbs.
“Our menu features high-quality, fresh ingredients alongside signature sauces and seasonings–all crafted right under your watchful eye.” – Blaze Pizza Website
While some of Blaze Pizza’s items may be higher in calories and sodium than other fast-casual restaurants or homemade pizza options, their commitment to using fresh ingredients and transparency about nutritional information make them a reasonable choice for those looking to indulge in a healthier pizza option.
Is Blaze Pizza healthy? The answer depends on your choices. Whether you opt for classic toppings or healthier alternatives, Blaze Pizza allows you to customize your meal according to your personal preferences, so long as you make informed choices about the ingredients that are best suited for your dietary needs.
Blaze Pizza Ingredients: Are They Healthy?
Fresh Produce and Meats
One of the main reasons why many people argue that Blaze Pizza is healthy is because the ingredients they use are fresh, organic when possible, and locally sourced. For example, their meats do not contain any antibiotics or hormones, which can be harmful to your health if consumed in large quantities.
Moreover, Blaze Pizza’s vegetables are fresh and full of nutrients. According to the Cleveland Clinic, “Eating plenty of vegetables decreases the risk of heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, certain cancers, and digestive problems.” Therefore, consuming fresh produce can have numerous health benefits for you, making Blaze Pizza healthier than other fast-food chains that typically serve processed foods with minimal nutritional value.
Low Sodium and No Preservatives
Another aspect of Blaze Pizza’s commitment to providing healthy options is their low sodium content. According to Harvard Health Publishing, reducing sodium intake can lower blood pressure levels and reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. In comparison to other major pizza chains, Blaze Pizza uses less salt on its pizzas, sauces, and dressings, making it a better choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet.
In addition, Blaze Pizza does not add preservatives to its pizza crusts. Preservatives are chemicals added to food to extend their shelf life, but some of them have been associated with adverse health effects. The elimination of preservatives suggests that Blaze Pizza prioritizes not only taste but also affordability without compromising customer health. Studies show that overconsumption of food additives such as emulsifiers can lead to gut inflammation.
“The additive we’re mainly concerned about is carrageenan – referred to by researchers as ‘poligeenan’ – a substance extracted from seaweed,” says Joanne Tobacman, MD, Associate Professor of Clinical Medicine at the University of Illinois College of Medicine. “Experiments have shown that exposure to carrageenan causes inflammation and that when we consume processed foods containing it, we ingest enough to cause inflammation in our bodies.”
Although it may be tempting to assume that all fast food is unhealthy, Blaze Pizza’s fresh ingredients, low sodium content, and elimination of preservatives make them stand out in a crowded market for consumers seeking healthier options.
Calories and Nutritional Value of Blaze Pizza
When it comes to fast-casual pizza, Blaze Pizza is a popular choice for many. But is Blaze Pizza healthy? The answer depends on what toppings you choose and how much you eat.
Varies by Toppings
The calorie count of Blaze Pizza can vary greatly depending on the toppings you choose. A basic cheese pizza clocks in at around 680 calories per pie while a BBQ chicken pizza with all the fixings can have up to 1,570 calories.
It’s important to note that some toppings are higher in sodium and fat than others. For example, pepperoni has about 300mg of sodium per slice while red onions only have 2mg. Cheese, another staple topping, contains high amounts of saturated and total fat.
To make sure you’re not overloading your pizza, consider choosing vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, and olives instead of processed meats or extra cheese. Opting for a thin crust instead of a regular crust can also reduce the overall calorie count.
Options for Lower Calorie Pizzas
If you’re looking to enjoy Blaze Pizza but don’t want to consume too many calories, there are several ways to build a healthier pizza.
One approach is to swap out traditional crust for Keto, Cauliflower, or Gluten-free options. These substitutes contain fewer carbs (6-12g) than traditional wheat-based doughs which means lower calorie counts. While their prices might be costlier, some people prefer these alternatives as they provide health benefits and better-quality ingredients – without compromising the taste!
You can also order half-pizzas if you find yourself struggling to control portions. This way, you save money and avoid consuming extra calories.
In addition, you can create a pizza with primarily vegetable toppings. Vegetables such as bell peppers, red onions and broccoli contain valuable vitamins while being low in saturated fat and sodium at the same time.
“Most of us underestimate our calorie intake by up to 40 percent, so it’s not always easy to tell if your favorite fast food pizza is truly healthy for you,” says Dr. Caroline Apovian, professor of medicine and pediatrics at Boston University School of Medicine
To summarize: Blaze Pizza has options that are better than other fast-food chains but depending on how you build your pie, one serving of pizza might clock in higher than the average meal’s calorie count. While there is no official answer about whether Blaze Pizza is healthy or not, using cauliflower crusts, reducing cheese, controlling portion sizes can help keep overall nutritional value in check.
Can You Make Blaze Pizza Healthier?
Blaze Pizza has been providing a build-your-own pizza experience to its customers since 2011. However, with all the toppings and sauces available, many wonder if Blaze Pizza is actually healthy. The good news is, by making informed choices, you can make your Blaze Pizza healthier.
Choose Lean Proteins and Veggies
One of the easiest ways to make your Blaze Pizza healthier is to opt for lean proteins and vegetables as toppings instead of high-fat meats like pepperoni or sausage. Grilled chicken, shrimp, and veggies like mushrooms, spinach, and onions are great options that will provide nutrition without excess calories.
“Leaner proteins like grilled chicken breast and veggies like peppers and onions not only add fiber to fill you up faster but contain nutrients that enhance heart health.”
You can also choose plant-based protein options like tofu and tempeh, which will be of benefit if you are trying to cut down on animal products. These toppings have less saturated fat and fewer calories than meat toppings while still providing adequate protein levels.
Opt for a Thin Crust and Light Cheese
If you’re watching your caloric intake, choosing a thin crust at Blaze Pizza is the way to go. A regular crust contains around 160 calories per serving while a thin crust has only 100 calories. Besides, the thinner crust means that more room is left for nutritious toppings.
Cheese lovers should try to pick lighter cheese options like feta, goat cheese, or ricotta, reducing their calorie count compared to mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Choosing to stick to just one type of cheese rather than mixing it up can reduce its overall quantity helping the customer limit both the calories and dairy content they consume.
Skip High-Calorie Sauces and Toppings
Many of the signature sauces at Blaze Pizza are high in calories. For instance, despite BBQ sauce being a tasty addition to pizza, just two tablespoons can add up to 90 calories to your meal. You may choose healthier options such as tomato marinara sauce or try something like balsamic glaze. Small amounts of pesto generally have fewer calories than traditional mozzarella cheese-based pizza sauces per serving.
Customers should also opt for no more than three toppings as adding more will boost calorie consumption beyond its healthy measures threshold; hence it is essential to avoid unhealthy toppings that could increase those overall numbers. Fine herbs instead of salt -packed meat slices help achieve this objective.
“Reducing high-caloric topping ingredients such as meats high in fat, caramelized onions, extra cheese- variants typically contain higher-than-normal sodium contents-reduces overall calorie intake.”
Making your Blaze Pizza healthier involves being mindful of what you put on your pizza with regards to caloric counts. Lean proteins, vegetables, thinner crusts, lighter cheeses, and skipping unwanted high-caloric sauces and toppings enable you to make informed choices regarding the number of nutrients you consume in each slice of pie. This move promotes better glycemic control among other health advantages while still enjoying one of America’s best-loved fast food brands.
Final Verdict: Is Blaze Pizza a Healthy Choice?
When it comes to dining out, finding healthy options can be a challenge. With artisanal pizza chain Blaze Pizza growing in popularity, many individuals are asking the question- is Blaze Pizza healthy? The answer depends on personal choices and specific menu selections.
Depends on Personal Choices
As with any restaurant, what you choose to order at Blaze Pizza will determine whether or not your meal falls into the “healthy” category. If you’re looking for a low-calorie option, consider ordering one of their signature “Simple Pie” pizzas. These pizza varieties typically have fewer toppings and an overall lower calorie count. Alternatively, you could opt for a build-your-own pizza and load up on veggies, lean protein, and lighter cheese options.
It’s important to also keep portion sizes in mind when deciding what to order. Blaze Pizza offers customizable 11-inch pies which can easily rack up calories if filled with high-fat meats and cheeses. Consider sharing with a friend or going for a half-pizza and salad combination to balance out your meal.
If you’re concerned about sodium intake, keep in mind that many of Blaze Pizza’s sauces and toppings like bacon or sausage can be high in sodium content. Opt for a homemade sauce or stick to veggie-heavy options to cut down on salt levels.
Finally, remember that choosing healthier options doesn’t mean sacrificing taste. Blaze Pizza offers delicious plant-based proteins and bold flavor combinations to create a satisfying meal.
Overall, Options for a Balanced Meal
While some menu items may have higher calorie counts or sodium levels, Blaze Pizza offers plenty of healthier options to make for a balanced meal. Aside from building your own pizza or choosing from one of their Simple Pie options, Blaze Pizza offers a variety of salads and sides to add extra nutrition to your meal.
One favorite among health-conscious diners is the Keto crust option. Made with cauliflower and cheese, this crust alternative has much fewer carbs than traditional pizza dough and can be used as a base for all other toppings.
In terms of drink options, avoid sugar-laden sodas and consider refreshing sparkling water or unsweetened iced tea instead. If you need something sweet, opt for one of their signature s’mores pies to share with the table.
“Overall, Blaze Pizza boasts healthy ingredient options such as nutrient-dense veggie toppings, whole grain thin crusts, gluten-free selections, low sodium marinara sauce, and protein-packed plant-based meatballs.” -Eat This, Not That!
When it comes down to it, whether or not Blaze Pizza is a healthy choice really depends on your individual order. With plenty of healthier options available, Blaze Pizza can certainly be included in a balanced diet while still providing delicious artisanal pizza experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the nutrition facts for Blaze Pizza?
Blaze Pizza offers a nutrition calculator on their website where you can customize your pizza and see the nutritional information. The average Blaze Pizza has around 700 calories, 30 grams of fat, and 2000 milligrams of sodium. However, the nutritional information will vary depending on the toppings and crust you choose.
Can you make a healthy pizza at Blaze Pizza?
Yes, you can make a healthy pizza at Blaze Pizza. Choose a thin crust, and load up on veggies like mushrooms, onions, and peppers. Opt for lean proteins like grilled chicken or turkey meatballs. Skip the high-fat meats like sausage and pepperoni, and go light on the cheese. Blaze Pizza also offers gluten-free and vegan options for those with dietary restrictions.
How does Blaze Pizza compare to other fast-casual pizza chains in terms of healthiness?
Blaze Pizza is similar in healthiness to other fast-casual pizza chains like MOD Pizza and Pieology. They all offer fresh ingredients and allow you to customize your pizza. However, some chains may have more options for low-calorie and low-fat toppings. It’s important to check the nutrition information before ordering to make the healthiest choices.
What are some healthy toppings to choose at Blaze Pizza?
Some healthy toppings to choose at Blaze Pizza include veggies like spinach, arugula, and roasted red peppers. Opt for lean proteins like grilled chicken, turkey meatballs, or shrimp. Choose a low-fat cheese like feta or goat cheese, and skip the high-fat meats like sausage and pepperoni. Blaze Pizza also offers vegan cheese and gluten-free crust options for those with dietary restrictions.
Does Blaze Pizza offer gluten-free or vegan options?
Yes, Blaze Pizza offers gluten-free and vegan options. They have a gluten-free crust made with tapioca, rice, and potato flours. They also offer vegan cheese made with a blend of soy and potato protein. You can customize your pizza with a variety of veggies and proteins to fit your dietary needs.
Are Blaze Pizza’s salads a healthier option than their pizzas?
Blaze Pizza’s salads can be a healthier option than their pizzas if you choose the right ingredients. Opt for a salad with a base of greens like kale or spinach, and load up on veggies like bell peppers, cucumbers, and tomatoes. Add a lean protein like grilled chicken or shrimp, and choose a low-fat dressing like balsamic vinaigrette. However, salads can also be high in calories and fat if you add too many toppings or a creamy dressing.