Cheese is a delicious dairy product and staple of many savory and sweet dishes. With hundreds of varieties to choose from, cheese is one of the most widely consumed foods in the United States. The average American eats a whopping 42 pounds of it per year — and consumption keeps climbing.
Nutritional Benefits of Cheese
Although it can get a bad rap for its calorie and fat content, cheese can be part of a healthy diet. The latest Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend prioritizing full-fat dairy sources, including cheese. These new guidelines also recommend Americans get 1.2–1.6 grams of protein per kilogram of bodyweight. Protein is important for muscle growth and repair, metabolism, immune function and overall health.
Cheese can provide between 5–14 grams per serving depending on the variety. A 150-pound person needs 81-109 grams of protein per day. Cheese also supplies calcium, vitamin B12, phosphorus and other nutrients that support bone health and muscle maintenance.
High-Protein Cheeses
Here are seven protein-packed, dietitian-approved cheeses to try: cottage cheese, parmesan cheese, ricotta cheese, Swiss cheese, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and provolone cheese. One serving of cottage cheese provides around 12–14 grams of protein, making it one of the most protein-rich dairy foods available.
When it comes to protein, parmesan cheese technically has the most protein per gram of any cheese. However, the nutty aged cheese is typically used as a topping or eaten in smaller quantities. Ricotta cheese is packed with protein and other nutrients, including whey, to support muscle growth.
Swiss cheese is a rich source of protein, calcium, vitamin B12 and phosphorus. It’s also low in fat, making it a great choice to support weight loss. Cheddar cheese is a convenient way to get more protein, with one ounce providing about 6 grams of protein.
Mozzarella cheese is one of the most widely consumed cheeses in the world and is rich in protein to support muscle repair, along with calcium, B vitamins, phosphorus and zinc. Provolone cheese is naturally rich in protein and all nine essential amino acids, making it a great cheese to support healthy muscles.
Original reporting: Dallas TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
