Written by CalorieData Nutrition TeamReviewed by a Registered DietitianLast Updated: March 2026

Cheese vs Gatorade: Nutrition Comparison

Which is healthier? Compare calories, protein, carbs, and more

Complete side-by-side nutrition comparison per 100g serving | Updated 2026

Which is Healthier?

Both foods have similar nutritional profiles

Both foods have similar nutritional profiles with each winning in different categories. Your choice should depend on your specific dietary goals and preferences. Cheese has 402 calories while Gatorade has 26 calories per 100g.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Gatorade

26 kcal

More Protein

Cheese

23g

More Fiber

Cheese

0g

Less Sugar

Cheese

0.7g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Cheese
402
Gatorade
26
Proteinper 100g
Cheese
23g
Gatorade
0g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Cheese
3.4g
Gatorade
6.7g
Fatper 100g
Cheese
33g
Gatorade
0g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientCheeseGatoradeDifference
Calories402kcal26kcal+376.0kcal
Protein23g0g+23.0g
Carbohydrates3.4g6.7g-3.3g
Fat33g0g+33.0g
Fiber0g0g0.0g
Sugar0.7g5.8g-5.1g
Sodium714mg41mg+673.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

All values above are per 100g. Here's how they compare in common serving sizes:

Cheese

Per 100g:402 calories
Per cup (150g):603 calories
Per serving (85g):342 calories

Gatorade

Per 100g:26 calories
Per cup (150g):39 calories
Per serving (85g):22 calories

Diet Compatibility

Cheese

KetoLow-CarbHigh-ProteinVegetarian

Gatorade

Low-CarbLow-CalorieVeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

When to Choose Cheese

  • Higher in protein (23g vs 0g)
  • More fiber (0g vs 0g)
  • Lower in carbs (3.4g vs 6.7g)
  • Less sugar (0.7g vs 5.8g)

Common Uses

BreakfastSnacksCooking ingredientPost-workout
View full Cheese nutrition →

When to Choose Gatorade

  • Lower in calories (26 vs 402)
  • Lower sodium (41mg vs 714mg)

Common Uses

HydrationMorning ritualSocial occasionsEnergy boost
View full Gatorade nutrition →

Cheese vs Gatorade: Nutritional Analysis

Cheese is more calorie-dense at 402 calories per 100g compared to 26 for Gatorade, a difference of 376 calories. On the protein front, Cheese delivers more with 23g per 100g versus 0g, which matters for muscle maintenance, satiety, and overall metabolic health. These differences become meaningful when you consider how each food fits into your daily dietary pattern rather than looking at any single nutrient in isolation.

Macronutrient Breakdown

The macronutrient profiles of Cheese and Gatorade tell different nutritional stories. Cheese provides 3.4g of carbohydrates, 33g of fat, and 0g of fiber per 100g, while Gatorade contains 6.7g carbs, 0g fat, and 0g fiber. Sugar content also differs: Cheese contains 0.7g while Gatorade has 5.8g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Gatorade is the lower-calorie choice at 26 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Cheese provides more protein (23g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Cheese offers more fiber (0g/100g), which slows digestion and provides steadier energy release.
  • Overall: Neither food is universally "better" than the other. The right choice depends on your specific nutritional goals, meal context, and dietary preferences. Both can play a role in a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which has more calories, Cheese or Gatorade?

Cheese has more calories with 402 kcal per 100g, compared to Gatorade with 26 kcal. That's a difference of 376 calories per 100g serving.

Is Cheese healthier than Gatorade?

Cheese and Gatorade have similar nutritional profiles, with each food winning in different categories. The healthier choice depends on your specific dietary goals and nutritional needs.

What is the protein difference between Cheese and Gatorade?

Cheese has more protein with 23g per 100g, compared to Gatorade with 0g. Cheese provides 23.0g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Cheese or Gatorade?

For weight loss, Gatorade is the better choice with only 26 calories per 100g compared to 402 calories in Cheese. Gatorade also offers 0g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Cheese or Gatorade have fewer carbs?

Cheese has fewer carbs with 3.4g per 100g, compared to Gatorade with 6.7g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Cheese is the better option with 3.3g fewer carbohydrates.

About Our Data

All nutrition data in this comparison is sourced from the USDA FoodData Central, the official food composition database maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Values are based on 100g servings for accurate comparison.

Health Disclaimer: This comparison is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or dietary advice. Nutritional needs vary by individual. The best food choice depends on your personal health goals, dietary requirements, and preferences. Consult a healthcare provider or registered dietitian for personalized nutrition guidance.