Andy Montoya
Feta cheese is a popular choice for those looking to manage their cholesterol levels. It is lower in fat compared to many other cheeses and provides beneficial nutrients like calcium and protein. However, feta cheese also contains high levels of sodium and saturated fat, which can negatively affect cholesterol levels. In this article, we will explore the effects of feta cheese on cholesterol and provide tips for including it in a cholesterol-friendly diet. We will also suggest some alternative cheese options that are lower in fat and cholesterol for those aiming to reduce their cholesterol levels.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cholesterol per ounce | 25 milligrams |
| Saturated fat | 3.5 grams |
| Sodium | High |
| Fat | Lower than many other cheeses |
| Calcium | High |
| Protein | High |
| Phosphorus | High |
| Probiotics | Yes |
| Tyramine | Yes |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Feta cheese is lower in fat than other cheeses
Feta cheese is a popular choice for those looking to manage their cholesterol levels. It is lower in fat compared to many other cheeses, such as Parmesan, blue cheese, and goat cheese, which are known to be high in fat. Feta is typically made from sheep's milk or a mix of sheep's and goat's milk, while goat cheese is made only from goat's milk, which contributes to its higher fat content.
Feta cheese contains 25 milligrams of cholesterol per ounce and less than 4 grams of saturated fat. In comparison, an ounce of low-fat cheddar cheese contains just 1.2 milligrams of cholesterol, while an ounce of regular cheddar has 28 milligrams. Low-fat cheeses, like cottage cheese, ricotta cheese, and nonfat cheddar, have very little cholesterol, but they may not have the same flavour or texture as feta.
The key to including feta cheese in a cholesterol-friendly diet is moderation. Feta has a rich taste, so a little goes a long way. You can use less of it in your dishes while still enjoying its fabulous flavour. It can be crumbled over salads or paired with fruits like watermelon or berries for a refreshing snack. Feta is also a good source of beneficial nutrients like calcium and protein, which can help control blood sugar levels and lower the chances of getting diabetes.
While feta cheese is lower in fat than other cheeses, it is important to note that it has a high sodium content. Excessive sodium in the diet has been linked to high blood pressure and other health issues like kidney disease, stroke, and heart disease. Therefore, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best dietary plan for your specific health needs.
Spotting Bad Ricotta: Signs Your Cheese Has Turned
You may want to see also
Feta has 25mg of cholesterol per ounce
Feta cheese contains 25 milligrams of cholesterol per ounce, which is considered a lower amount when compared to most other cheeses. For example, gouda and gruyere contain more than 30 milligrams of cholesterol per ounce, while cheddar contains 28 milligrams.
Feta is also lower in fat than many other cheeses, which is a key factor in managing cholesterol levels. According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, it is recommended to keep saturated fat intake below 10% of daily calories, or about 20 grams per day. Feta's lower fat content means that it can be consumed in moderation as part of a heart-healthy diet.
In addition to its cholesterol and fat content, feta cheese also provides beneficial nutrients such as calcium, phosphorus, and protein. Consuming phosphorus and calcium together has been linked to improved bone density and osteoporosis prevention. Feta also contains a fatty acid known as conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which has been shown in studies to help reduce body fat and improve body composition in the long term.
However, it is important to note that feta cheese has high amounts of sodium, which can contribute to high blood pressure and related health issues such as kidney disease, stroke, and heart disease. Feta also contains tyramine, a substance linked to blood pressure spikes, heart palpitations, and severe headaches in people taking certain medications. Therefore, while feta cheese may be a better option in terms of cholesterol and fat content, it should still be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Cheese and Dreams: A Nightmarish Combination?
You may want to see also
Feta is high in sodium and saturated fat
Feta cheese is a soft, white-coloured cheese typically made from sheep's or goat's milk. It is one of the oldest cheeses in the world and is known for its rich aroma and slightly sour taste. While feta cheese is an excellent source of nutrients like calcium and protein, it also contains high amounts of sodium and saturated fat.
Sodium, or salt, is a necessary mineral for the human body to function. However, excessive sodium intake has been linked to high blood pressure, which is a risk factor for several health issues, including kidney disease, stroke, and heart disease. Therefore, it is important to monitor your sodium intake and not exceed the recommended daily limit.
Saturated fat, on the other hand, has been associated with an increased risk of high LDL cholesterol levels, which can lead to a higher risk of heart disease and stroke. While cheese is a significant source of saturated fat, not all cheeses have the same amount. Feta cheese, in particular, has a relatively lower amount of saturated fat compared to other cheeses. For instance, according to dietitian Molly Hembree, feta cheese has 5 grams of total fat and 3 grams of saturated fat per 1-ounce serving, whereas Parmesan and Swiss cheeses have 8 grams of total fat and 5 grams of saturated fat, and cheddar cheese has 10 grams of total fat and 6 grams of saturated fat in the same serving size.
Additionally, feta cheese has a rich taste, so a small amount can go a long way in adding flavour to dishes. This means that even though feta contains saturated fat, its strong flavour allows for smaller portions to be used, reducing the overall amount of saturated fat consumed.
In conclusion, while feta cheese does contain high amounts of sodium and saturated fat, it can still be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. To manage cholesterol levels, it is recommended to pair feta with high-fibre foods like vegetables, fruits, and whole grains.
Parmesan Cheese: How Long Does It Last?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Feta is a good source of calcium and protein
Feta cheese is a good source of calcium, with 536 milligrams per 100 grams. Calcium is crucial for maintaining healthy bones and teeth and plays a role in muscle function, nerve transmission, and blood clotting. It also helps maintain bone density and prevent osteoporosis. Feta provides almost twice as much calcium as phosphorus, a proportion shown to have positive effects on bone health.
Feta cheese is also a good source of protein, with 18 grams per 100 grams. This protein is complete, meaning it contains all the essential amino acids that the body cannot produce on its own. Protein is vital for various bodily functions, including muscle repair and growth, enzyme production, and immune function. Incorporating feta into your diet can help meet your protein needs.
Feta cheese is a nutritionally rich food that provides a good balance of calories, fats, proteins, and essential minerals like calcium. It is also a good source of B vitamins, which support a healthy nervous system, skin, and energy production. Feta is lower in fat and calories compared to many other cheeses, making it a reasonable option to consume in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
However, it is important to note that feta cheese has a high sodium content, which can contribute to high blood pressure and other cardiovascular issues. It also contains saturated fats, which should be limited to less than 10% of daily calorie intake. Overall, feta cheese can be a nutritious and tasty addition to a well-balanced diet when consumed in moderation.
Swiss Cheese: Why Does it Taste So Bad?
You may want to see also
Feta contains probiotics and phosphorus
Feta cheese is a popular choice for those looking to manage their cholesterol levels. It is lower in fat compared to many other cheeses, and it contains beneficial nutrients like calcium and protein. Feta is also a good source of B vitamins, phosphorus, and beneficial bacteria.
Phosphorus is an important component of bone health. Feta cheese contains healthy amounts of calcium and phosphorus, which have been proven to promote bone health. However, the phosphorus in feta may weaken bones in people with kidney disease.
Feta cheese is a traditional Greek cheese made mostly from sheep and goat milk. It is known for its soft, crumbly texture, salty flavour, and slight tang. It is also a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) product, meaning that only cheese made in some areas of Greece can be called "feta".
Feta is a good source of probiotics, which are beneficial microorganisms that help control the balance of the digestive system and support the immune system. Feta's probiotics may aid gut health, but it also contains tyramine, a naturally occurring substance in aged and fermented foods that experts have linked to blood pressure spikes, heart palpitations, and severe headaches in people taking certain medications.
Unopened Cheese: Does It Go Bad?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Feta cheese contains 25 milligrams of cholesterol per ounce and less than 4 grams of saturated fat. While feta is lower in fat than many other cheeses, it is still considered high in dietary cholesterol. However, it can be consumed in moderation as part of a well-balanced diet.
Low-fat cheeses are a healthier alternative for people with high cholesterol. Examples include low-fat cottage cheese, ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and nonfat cheddar.
Feta cheese is an excellent source of nutrients like calcium and protein. It also contains phosphorus, which has been linked to improved bone density and osteoporosis prevention. Feta is also a good source of probiotics, which promote a healthy gut and support immune system function.
Feta cheese is a popular choice for salads, paired with fruits like watermelon or berries, or added to whole grain dishes like quinoa or bulgur. Its rich taste means a little goes a long way, so you can use less of it while still enjoying its flavour.
