Andy Montoya
While there is limited data on the association between dairy consumption and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, dairy products are known to contain high levels of saturated fat and cholesterol, which can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. As such, individuals with fatty liver disease are generally advised to opt for low-fat dairy products, such as cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, and low-fat cheeses like goat cheese, ricotta, mozzarella, and cheddar. However, some sources suggest that dairy consumption may have benefits, such as improved serum concentrations of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and reduced serum triglyceride levels. A Mediterranean diet, which includes lower-fat cheeses like mozzarella and feta, is often recommended by nutritionists as a healthy option that may provide benefits for the liver.
Is Cheddar Cheese Good for Fatty Liver?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Recommended for fatty liver | Cheddar cheese is a low-fat cheese that can be consumed in moderation by people with fatty liver disease. |
| Nutritional benefits | Cheddar cheese is a good source of calcium, protein, and other essential nutrients. |
| Weight loss | As weight loss is a primary goal for those with fatty liver disease, low-calorie foods like low-fat cheddar cheese may be beneficial. |
| Alternative options | Other low-fat cheeses such as goat cheese, ricotta, mozzarella, feta, and parmesan are also suitable. |
| Overall diet | A balanced diet for fatty liver disease includes whole foods, fiber-rich foods, lean meats, and plant-based sources of protein. |
| Hydration | Staying hydrated is important, so prioritize no-calorie or low-calorie drinks like water, seltzer, black coffee, and unsweetened tea. |
| Alcohol | Any diet for fatty liver disease should limit or avoid alcohol consumption. |
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What You'll Learn
Cheddar cheese is low-fat
While cheese is a dairy product that contains saturated fats, some cheeses are lower in fat than others. Cheddar cheese is one such example of a low-fat cheese.
Dairy products are a common part of daily diets due to their high nutritional content of protein, fat, minerals, and vitamins. However, because of their high levels of saturated fat and cholesterol, it is recommended to limit the consumption of dairy products to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. For those with fatty liver disease, it is generally recommended to opt for low-fat dairy products. This is because dairy products can contain high amounts of fat, and fatty liver disease diets aim to reduce total calorie consumption to promote weight loss.
Cheddar cheese is a low-fat cheese that can be consumed by those with fatty liver disease in moderation. Other low-fat cheeses include goat cheese, ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan. In addition to opting for low-fat cheeses, those with fatty liver disease should also prioritize whole foods and fiber-rich foods with high amounts of vitamins and antioxidants and minimal levels of fats or simple carbohydrates.
While cheddar cheese is a low-fat option, it is important to note that there is limited data on the association between dairy product consumption and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Some studies have shown that increasing the consumption of certain dairy products, such as cheese, is positively associated with improved serum concentrations of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and is inversely related to serum triglyceride levels. However, other studies have shown that higher milk consumption is independently predictive of lower fatty liver index (FLI) measurements, which indicate lower levels of fatty liver disease.
In conclusion, while cheddar cheese is a low-fat option that can be consumed by those with fatty liver disease in moderation, it is important to prioritize a variety of whole foods and fiber-rich foods as part of a balanced diet. It is always recommended to speak with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian to get personalized advice and recommendations based on specific health goals and conditions.
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Cheddar cheese is high in saturated fat
While cheddar cheese can be a good source of calcium, proteins, and other essential nutrients, it is also high in saturated fat. For this reason, people with fatty liver disease are generally advised to opt for low-fat dairy products. This is because weight loss is the primary goal of a fatty liver disease diet, and reducing the total amount of calories consumed is key.
However, some sources suggest that cheese can be consumed in moderation, and that full-fat Greek yoghurt, mozzarella, and feta can be eaten in small amounts. One source mentions that they eat shredded mozzarella and feta cheese every day, but "not too much".
It is worth noting that there is limited data on the association between dairy consumption and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. One study found that participants in the third tertile of cheese intake had significantly lower FLI (fatty liver index) than lower tertiles, but there was no significant association between cheese intake and the odds of FLI in the multivariate model.
Overall, while cheddar cheese can be a part of a diet for someone with fatty liver disease, it should be consumed in moderation and in conjunction with other healthy habits, such as staying hydrated and avoiding sugary and processed foods.
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Non-alcoholic fatty liver diets
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the most common liver conditions in America, affecting about 100 million people. It is caused by excess fat stored in the liver and is often associated with obesity and type 2 diabetes. There is no medical treatment for NAFLD, but it can be prevented and treated through diet and lifestyle changes.
A diet for NAFLD should be well-rounded, nutritious, and rich in fibre, lean or plant-based protein, and healthy fats. Weight loss is the primary goal of a diet for NAFLD, and dietary plans should aim to reduce total calorie consumption. This can be achieved by reducing portion sizes and eating less, and choosing whole foods and fibre-rich foods that contain minimal levels of fats or simple carbohydrates.
The Mediterranean diet is often recommended for people with NAFLD. This diet emphasises eating fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, nuts, legumes, olive oil, and herbs and spices. It recommends eating fish and seafood a couple of times a week and poultry, eggs, cheese, and yogurt in moderation, while sweets and red meat are reserved for special occasions. The Mediterranean diet has also been associated with a reduced risk of heart disease and lowered blood pressure and bad LDL cholesterol.
Some specific foods that are beneficial for people with NAFLD include:
- Low-fat dairy products, such as cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, skim or 2% milk, and low-fat cheeses like goat cheese, ricotta, cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan.
- Coffee, which can be consumed in moderation (up to three cups per day).
- Olive oil, with a recommended intake of four tablespoons per day.
- Whole grains, which provide fibre and complex carbohydrates, making people feel full and energetic for longer and aiding in weight loss.
- Lean meats and plant-based sources of protein, which provide essential amino acids without the high levels of fat found in some animal-based proteins.
It is important to stay hydrated, but people with NAFLD should avoid sugary drinks like sodas and fruit juices, as these contain high amounts of sugar that are converted to fat in the liver. Instead, prioritise no- or low-calorie drinks such as water, seltzer, black coffee, and unsweetened tea.
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Other low-fat cheeses
Dairy products are a good source of calcium, proteins, and other essential nutrients. However, some dairy products contain high amounts of fat. People with fatty liver disease should generally opt for low-fat dairy products.
Cottage cheese is considered the healthiest cheese as it is low in calories and fat and is also the best low-fat, high-protein cheese. It is also rich in vitamin B-12, which helps keep nerve and blood cells healthy. A 4-ounce serving of non-fat and 1% cottage cheese provides about 80 calories, 12 to 14 grams of protein, and 0 to 0.7 grams of saturated fat.
Goat cheese is naturally the lowest in fat of all milk types. Goat milk provides the stomach with beneficial bacteria to help protect the body against illnesses. It is also a rich source of vitamin A, which is essential for eye health.
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Dairy's essential nutrients
Dairy products are a good source of calcium, protein, and other essential nutrients. However, some dairy products also contain high amounts of fat. For this reason, people with fatty liver disease are generally advised to opt for low-fat dairy products, such as cottage cheese, Greek yoghurt, skim or 2% milk, and low-fat cheeses like goat cheese, ricotta, cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan.
Dairy foods provide about 52% of the calcium, 51% of the vitamin D, and 17% of the protein consumed by Americans. Milk contains 13 essential nutrients, including high-quality protein, calcium, vitamins A and D, zinc, selenium, and vitamin B. These nutrients help our bodies thrive by contributing to healthy immune function, supporting healthy immune cells, and keeping skin and eyes healthy. Dairy is also a good source of potassium, which helps maintain healthy blood pressure and supports heart health.
In addition to their nutritional benefits, dairy products offer health advantages. Research shows that healthy eating styles that include low-fat and fat-free dairy foods are linked to a reduced risk of prevalent chronic diseases in the US, such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease in adults, as well as improved bone health. Dairy consumption is also associated with a lower risk of osteoporosis in later years, as it helps build and maintain healthy bones throughout life.
It is important to note that lactose intolerance can be a barrier to dairy consumption, but it doesn't mean giving up dairy completely. Lactose-intolerant individuals can still consume varying degrees of lactose and benefit from the nutrients that dairy offers. Additionally, there are lactose-free milk options available that provide the same nutrients as regular milk.
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Frequently asked questions
While there is limited data on the association between dairy products and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, some sources recommend that people with fatty liver disease opt for low-fat dairy products. Cheddar is considered a low-fat cheese, so it may be a good option for those looking to include cheese in their diet while managing their condition.
Other low-fat cheeses include goat cheese, ricotta, mozzarella, feta, and parmesan.
Yes, it is generally recommended to follow a diet that prioritises whole foods and fibre-rich foods with high amounts of vitamins and antioxidants, while minimising fats and simple carbohydrates. Some specific dietary strategies include low-fat, low-carbohydrate, ketogenic, DASH, vegan or plant-based, and Mediterranean diets.
Yes, staying hydrated is important, so it is recommended to prioritise no- or low-calorie drinks such as water, seltzer, black coffee, and unsweetened tea. Alcohol should be limited or avoided.
Yes, it is recommended to avoid refined grains, carbohydrates, sugars, and processed foods.
