5 Healthiest Cheeses To Eat, According To Dietitians

Key Points:

• Americans consume nearly 42 pounds of cheese per person annually, with cottage cheese gaining popularity due to its high protein and lower saturated fat content.
• Recent research suggests full-fat cheese may not be as unhealthy as once believed, with some studies linking higher intake of certain cheeses to lower dementia risk and improved cardiovascular markers.
• Cottage cheese is considered the healthiest cheese due to its high protein, lower saturated fat, and lower sodium levels, making it suitable for daily consumption and weight loss diets.
• Other healthy cheese options include ricotta, mozzarella, and feta, which are generally lower in saturated fat, while hard cheeses like Parmesan and Swiss are better for those with lactose sensitivity.
• Experts recommend consuming cheese in moderation, pairing it with fiber-rich foods for better satiety, and caution against low-fat cheese varieties that may contain fillers and less flavor.