There’s a reason cheese is a central ingredient in so many comfort foods. It has a rich, creamy and rich taste. In fact, according to one scientific study, eating cheese activates the same parts of the brain as opioids, so eating cheese can be addictive.
Delicious? absolutely. But is cheese healthy? On the other hand, it is widely known that cheese contains calcium, which supports bone health. But on the other hand, most cheeses are high in fat. As such, cheese has become a health conundrum. Let’s see what a registered dietician has to say.
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Is cheese healthy?
“Cheese offers people a rich flavor and taste that easily fits into a healthy lifestyle,” he said. Judy Simon, RDregistered dietitian, owner of Mind Body Nutrition, and faculty member of the University of Washington Nutritional Sciences Program.
registered dietitian Miranda Garati, RD, agrees that cheese can fit into an overall healthy diet. “Cheese can be a healthy addition to a balanced, nutritious diet,” she says. adds that there are also individual factors to consider. “It depends on your overall diet, your specific health concerns, and how often you consume cheese,” she says.
At this point, Simon says that people with high cholesterol or other cardiovascular problems should be aware of the fat content of the cheese they consume. adds that most of this fat is saturated fat.
If you’re trying to minimize your saturated fat consumption, use cheese sparingly, such as grated parmesan or sprinkling feta on salads and vegetables, which has fewer calories than many other types of cheese. Processed cheese can be high in sodium, she adds, and there are other things to watch out for.
As all cheese lovers know, there are many types of cheese to choose from. What should I keep in mind when buying cheese if I want to choose healthier options? “I recommend choosing healthy cheeses and aiming to have a variety of plant-based foods elsewhere in your diet,” says Galati. To do this, it’s important to alternate between plant-based protein and healthy fats.” It’s also important to be mindful of how much cheese you consume, because cheese is a high-calorie food, says Galati. I am adding.
With these caveats in mind, eating moderate amounts of cheese on a regular basis has many health benefits.
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5 health benefits of cheese
1. Contains protein
One of the health benefits of cheese that both registered dietitians point out is the protein it contains. “Cheese is a quick and easy way to add endurance to carbohydrate-rich snacks like crackers, fruit, and bread,” says Galati. Firm cheeses like Parmesan, cheddar, gouda, and mozzarella provide more protein, especially the lower-fat varieties, says Galati. “Cottage her cheese is another good option because it’s high in protein. Soft, runny cheeses like ricotta her cheese and cream her cheese are low in protein and may be less filling.” There is,” she adds.
2. Cheese is good for your bones
Another benefit of eating cheese is that it is a good source of calcium, phosphorus and vitamin D. All of these directly support bone health, says Simon. Calcium is also important for muscle and cardiovascular health. Feta, mozzarella, cheddar, parmesan, and gruyere are particularly high in calcium.
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3. Relieves depression
You may have noticed that eating cheese makes you feel good, but did you know that it’s not just about the taste? Simon points out that one of the nutrients in cheese is magnesium. Magnesium has been associated with reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. Perhaps another reason why cheese is so popular in home cooking.
4. Eating cheese supports brain health
Another nutrient that both nutritionists find in cheese is vitamin B12. This nutrient is particularly important for cognitive health. If you really want to boost your vitamin B12 intake, opt for Swiss cheese, which is more nutritious than any other cheese.
5. Cheese to support eye health
Simon and Galati say cheese also contains vitamin A, an important nutrient for healthy eyesight. (Vitamin A also supports the immune system.) Add cheese to salads made with leafy greens, red peppers, tomatoes, eggs, and salmon for an especially vitamin A-rich diet.
As if I needed another reason to eat cheese, now I have five. “As a nutritionist, I love cheese and enjoy it regularly!” says Galati. “Your health doesn’t depend on a single food choice. If you love cheese, keep enjoying it. Try to include variety in your cheese choices and overall diet as well.” ”
Now that you know the overall health benefits of cheese, let’s find out which 10 cheeses are the healthiest to add to your diet.
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- Judy Simon, RD, Registered Dietitian, Owner of Mind Body Nutrition, Faculty of Nutritional Sciences Program, University of Washington
- Miranda Galati, RD, Registered Dietitian
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