Cuban bread is traditionally used for making Cuban sandwiches, a panini-type of food with layers of cold cuts, pickles and cheese. The flavor and texture is similar to rustic Italian or French breads, and it contains lard, or animal fat, and sugar. The nutritional value of Cuban bread is similar to that of most breads, except the fat content is slightly higher due to the lard.
Calories
The calorie content in 8 ounces of Cuban bread, or one-fourth of a loaf, is 374, approximately 19 percent of a standard 2,000-calorie diet. The lard content in Cuban bread increases its calorie level because fat provides more calories than protein or carbohydrates -- 9 calories per gram of fat.
Saturated Fat and Cholesterol
The saturated fat content in 8 ounces of Cuban bread is 5.5 grams, which is 28 percent of the 20 American Dietetic Association daily limit. Limiting saturated fat in the diet is important because it clogs arteries, which causes heart disease. The cholesterol content is 53 milligrams, or 18 percent of the ADA upper intake recommendation. Cholesterol also clogs blood vessels and primarily comes from animal-based foods that should be limited in the diet.
Protein
The protein in your diet improves your metabolism of carbohydrates and provides amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein, for forming and repairing enzymes, tissue, blood vessels and organs. A serving of Cuban bread provides 12 grams of protein, or 24 percent of the 50 gram ADA recommendation.
Fiber
The fiber in foods is a indigestible plant material that provides bulk in your stool, which is important for regular elimination. A serving of Cuban bread provides 3 grams of fiber, which is 12 percent of the 25 gram ADA daily value. Fiber also fills the stomach and satiates the appetite.
Sodium
Monitor your sodium intake when consuming a meal that includes Cuban bread. An 8 ounce serving provides 895 milligrams of sodium, which is 37 percent of the 2,400 milligram ADA upper daily intake.
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