Randy Chandler
Cheddar cheese is a beloved food in America, but it is often criticized for its high-fat content. However, some experts argue that eating cheddar cheese in moderation may help lower cholesterol, especially in middle-aged adults. Cheddar cheese is also a good source of calcium, which is important for bone health and may help prevent obesity. Additionally, aged cheddar contains probiotics that can aid in weight loss and improve gut health. While the evidence on the effects of saturated fat in cheese is inconclusive, it is recommended to consume it in moderation, especially if you have high cholesterol or blood pressure.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Calories | Cheddar cheese has 114 calories per ounce. |
| Fat | Cheddar cheese has 9.4 grams of fat per ounce. |
| Sodium | Cheddar cheese has 180 mg of sodium per ounce. |
| Cholesterol | Cheddar cheese may help lower cholesterol, especially in middle-aged adults. |
| Calcium | Cheddar cheese is a good source of calcium, with a 1-ounce serving containing about 200 mg. |
| Vitamin K2 | Cheddar cheese is rich in vitamin K2, which is important for preventing heart disease. |
| Protein | Cheddar cheese is a source of protein. |
| Probiotics | Cheddar cheese may contain probiotics, which can support gut health and weight loss. |
| Lactose | Cheddar cheese is an aged cheese and is therefore low in lactose. |
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What You'll Learn
- Cheddar is rich in calcium, which is important for bone health and may help burn fat
- Cheddar contains vitamin K2, which is important for heart health
- Cheddar is high in fat and calories, but eating it in moderation may help lower cholesterol
- Cheddar is a good source of protein, which can help with weight loss
- Cheddar has less sodium than some other cheeses, but it is still high in salt
Cheddar is rich in calcium, which is important for bone health and may help burn fat
Cheddar cheese is a rich source of calcium, which is essential for maintaining bone health and may also help burn fat. Calcium is well-known for its role in bone development and keeping bones healthy. It also plays a crucial role in blood circulation and muscle and nerve functions. A diet rich in calcium can help prevent osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bones and makes them more prone to fractures.
Cheddar, being a semi-hard cheese, typically has more calcium than soft cheeses. For instance, a 1-ounce serving of cheddar cheese contains about 200 mg of calcium, contributing to almost one-third of the daily calcium requirements for adults. In contrast, a 1-ounce serving of Brie, a soft cheese, contains only 52 mg of calcium.
The presence of calcium in cheddar cheese may also aid in burning fat. Studies have indicated that consuming cheese with higher calcium content may help protect against obesity. Calcium helps regulate heartbeat, and when the body does not receive enough calcium, it hoards it in fat cells, locking the cells and trapping fat. Increasing calcium intake can unlock these cells and promote fat loss.
In addition to its calcium content, cheddar cheese also contains vitamin K2, which is important for preventing heart disease. Vitamin K2 prevents calcium from building up in the arteries and veins, reducing the risk of blockages and improving heart health. Cheddar cheese is also a good source of protein and other essential nutrients.
However, it is important to note that cheddar cheese is also high in fat, sodium, and calories. Therefore, it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Despite its saturated fat content, eating cheddar cheese in moderation may help lower cholesterol levels, especially in middle-aged adults.
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Cheddar contains vitamin K2, which is important for heart health
Cheddar cheese is a rich source of vitamin K2, which is essential for maintaining heart health. Vitamin K2 helps prevent calcium from accumulating in the arteries and veins, reducing the risk of blockages and promoting healthy blood flow. Inadequate vitamin K2 levels can lead to calcium buildup, increasing the risk of heart disease.
Cheddar cheese, a popular semi-hard cheese from England, is made from cow's milk and matured for several months. It is named after the English village of Cheddar, where it was first created in the 11th century. While cheddar is known for its distinct flavour, ranging from mild to extra sharp, its nutritional profile is equally noteworthy.
Vitamin K2, found in animal-based foods like cheddar cheese, is more easily absorbed by the body than vitamin K1, which is predominantly found in plant-based sources. This makes vitamin K2 particularly significant in maintaining heart health. By including moderate amounts of cheddar cheese in your diet, you can help ensure adequate vitamin K2 intake, thereby reducing the risk of heart-related issues.
In addition to its vitamin K2 content, cheddar cheese also boasts other beneficial nutrients. It is a good source of calcium, which not only strengthens bones but also plays a role in blood clotting and muscle and nerve function. Cheddar is also lower in sodium than many other cheeses, making it a better option for those watching their sodium intake.
While it's important to be mindful of the fat content in cheddar cheese, consuming it in moderation can be part of a balanced diet. The "cheese matrix," a term describing the arrangement of proteins and calcium in cheese, is believed to contribute to its health benefits. So, when enjoyed in appropriate portions, cheddar cheese can be a delicious and nutritious addition to your meals, offering not only flavour but also essential nutrients like vitamin K2 for heart health.
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Cheddar is high in fat and calories, but eating it in moderation may help lower cholesterol
Cheddar cheese is a popular semi-hard cheese from England, named after the village of Cheddar, where it was first created in the 11th century. It is made from cow's milk that has been matured for several months, and it can be white, off-white, or yellow. Cheddar is a rich source of calcium, protein, and vitamin K2, which are essential for maintaining bone health and preventing heart disease. However, it is also high in fat and calories.
A 1-ounce serving of cheddar cheese contains about 114 calories and 9.4 grams of fat. It is also a source of saturated fat, which has been linked to high cholesterol. Despite this, research suggests that consuming cheddar cheese in moderation may help lower cholesterol levels, especially in middle-aged adults. This effect has been attributed to the "cheese matrix," which refers to the arrangement of proteins and calcium in cheese that offers various health benefits.
In addition to its cholesterol-lowering properties, cheddar cheese also contains conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), a healthy fat that may help prevent obesity and heart disease. Cheddar sourced from 100% grass-fed animals was found to contain twice as much CLA as conventional cheddar. However, the overall nutritional benefits of switching to grass-fed cheese in the average U.S. diet are unclear.
While cheddar cheese can be a part of a healthy diet when consumed in moderation, it is important to consider its high-calorie content. A generous handful of grated cheddar can easily weigh 50 grams, adding more than 10% of the daily calorie requirement. Therefore, it is recommended to keep cheese portions small and opt for lower-fat or reduced-sodium varieties if necessary.
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Cheddar is a good source of protein, which can help with weight loss
Cheddar cheese is a great source of protein, with 7 grams per ounce. This macronutrient is essential for various bodily functions, including building muscle, producing enzymes, giving structure to cells, and maintaining fluid balance.
Protein-rich foods like cheddar cheese can aid in weight loss by increasing feelings of fullness and reducing overall calorie intake. This is supported by studies indicating that consuming high-protein foods can lead to a greater sense of satiation and a decrease in total calorie consumption, ultimately contributing to weight loss.
In addition to its protein content, cheddar cheese also contains calcium, which plays a crucial role in bone health and blood clotting. Research suggests that eating cheese with higher calcium content may offer protection against obesity, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes.
While cheddar cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, it is important to consider its high-calorie and saturated fat content. Nutrition advice has traditionally recommended limiting saturated fat intake to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. However, recent studies suggest that saturated fat from whole foods like cheese may not have the same detrimental effects on heart health as previously believed.
Overall, consuming cheddar cheese in moderation as part of a balanced diet can be enjoyable and provide nutritional benefits.
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Cheddar has less sodium than some other cheeses, but it is still high in salt
Cheddar cheese is a popular semi-hard cheese from England, made from cow's milk that has been matured for several months. It is a good source of calcium, protein, and vitamin K2, which is important for heart and bone health. However, it is also high in salt, with a 30g portion providing seven percent of your daily calories and more salt than a packet of crisps.
While cheddar cheese offers various health benefits, such as lower cholesterol and stronger bones, it is important to consider its sodium content. Cheddar typically has less sodium than other cheeses, such as feta, which is packaged in brine and can be very high in sodium. A one-ounce slice of cheddar contains about 180 mg of sodium, contributing to 8% of your daily sodium limit. However, it is still a significant source of salt, and consuming too much can be detrimental to people with high blood pressure.
The high salt content in cheddar cheese is due to the aging process, as harder cheeses require more salt to mature. This makes it important to monitor your intake, especially if you have high blood pressure or are watching your sodium intake for other health reasons. To reduce your sodium intake, you can opt for lower-sodium cheeses, such as Swiss cheese, which has only 53 milligrams of sodium per ounce.
Additionally, when adding cheddar cheese to your meals, be mindful of portion sizes. A generous handful of grated cheddar can easily weigh 50g, adding 230 calories to your dish. Instead, opt for a smaller serving of vintage or mature cheddar to satisfy your taste buds without exceeding your calorie intake. Remember, moderation is key when it comes to enjoying the benefits of cheddar cheese while maintaining a healthy diet.
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Frequently asked questions
Cheddar cheese is a source of calcium and vitamin K2, which can help prevent calcium from building up in your arteries and veins. Studies have shown that eating cheese with higher calcium may protect against obesity, and a multi-university study found that dairy can double or even triple the speed at which we burn fat from our belly and hips. However, cheddar cheese is also high in fat, sodium, and calories, so it should be eaten in moderation.
Cheddar cheese is a good source of calcium, which is important for bone health and blood clotting. Cheddar also contains vitamin K2, which is important for heart and bone health. Cheddar cheese sourced from 100% grass-fed animals was found to contain twice as much conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) as conventional cheddar. CLA is a healthy fat that may help prevent obesity and heart disease, and may reduce inflammation.
Cheddar cheese is high in fat, sodium, and calories, so it should be eaten in moderation. It can be especially risky for people with high cholesterol or blood pressure, and those with lactose intolerance or a milk allergy.
MyPlate recommends that a serving of cheese is equivalent to 1.5 ounces of hard cheese, which is about the size of a 1-inch cube. It's important to keep cheese portions small and weigh them to reduce temptation.
