Cheese gets a bad rap. People think it makes you fat and clogs your arteries. However, I’m a big advocate for it. I include it in m diet for many health reasons, but mainly because I LOVE the taste of it.
First, from a nutrition standpoint, cheese is great because it is a diary product made from milk. It is highly nutritious and very rich in several vitamins and minerals. Cheese is made of fat and protein. These are two elements that make up a healthy diet. A reasonable slice of cedar cheese can contain up to 7 grams of protein. The majority of the proteins in cheese belong to the milk protein family called casein. These proteins are full of amino acids and are easily digested. The amount of fat from cheese varies depending on the type of cheese but is complex. Cheese is high in saturated fat, which you need in moderation. Cheese also has monounsaturated fat. Cheese also contains small amount of carbohydrates, mainly coming from the lactose. I don’t get non-fat cheese because all the protein is taken out, and all that is left is the sugar. At most, stay with lowfat cheese, but better get high full fat cheese and just work off the calorie – workout to earn the cheese and work off the calories
Second, cheese is a rich source of vitamins and minerals. These include calcium for healthy bones, riboflavin (vitamin B2), vitamin A (most abundant in milk fat), and vitamin K2 which is necessary for healthy bones and a healthy heart.
Therefore, when you see cheese on a menu, at the grocery story, or at a social event, eat some for the health benefits. It helps you’re your heart healthy, reduces hypertension, makes your bones healthy, and cuts the risk of osteoporosis.
So next time you think “cheese is bad for you” or that you should “stay away from cheese because it will make you fat”, remember that cheese is really healthy for you. It’s high in protein, the fat will make you feel full so that you can stay away from those refined carbohydrates. However, I do say moderation is key. Go ahead and add it to that salad, or even roll it with sliced turkey for a healthy snack. Savor it but always remember that moderation is key.
