Who doesn’t love cheese? From pizzas to burgers and pastas, cheese is a special ingredient that makes all these dishes flavoursome. However, it is also said that it can make you gain weight and cause heart diseases. Well, since cheese is a whole food, it is generally good for health unless consumed too much at a time.
A form of processed dairy product, cheese is made from the milk of grass-fed animals. Hence, it is a rich source of calcium, fat and protein. What’s more, it also consists of omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin A, B-12 and K-2 along with zinc, phosphorus, and riboflavin.
In general, cheese is healthy. But, how much cheese can be bad for you and what are the types of cheese that can be consumed to stay healthy? Dr Geeta Buryok, Dietician, Max Super Speciality Hospital lists the five types of cheese you can have without worrying about gaining more kilos.
Feta Cheese
One of the healthiest cheese, it is made from goat milk and is known to boost the immune system.
Cottage Cheese or Paneer
Paneer is a rich source of protein, calcium and casein which promotes muscle recovery.
Parmesan Cheese
Not only does Parmesan cheese have low calories but it recommended for people trying to lose weight. However, it has a high amount of sodium. So, it should be consumed with caution.
Ricotta Cheese
It is made from sheep milk. Ricotta cheese is a good source of calcium, protein, zinc, vitamin A and phosphorus.
Low Fat Cheddar Cheese
It contains high-quality protein and calcium. Cheddar cheese also has little or no lactose and is, therefore, safe for people suffering from lactose indigestion.
Munching on cheese crumbles occasionally isn’t a problem at all unless you’re lactose intolerant or allergic. Nevertheless, be wary about what’s on top or under it. Tortillas, chips, breadsticks and other forms of fast food obviously cancel the health factor cheese imparts to the food. Here’s a tip: Always buy cheese made from organic milk and safe sources so as to reduce the risk of sedentary diseases due to antibiotic milk.