Randy Chandler
Feta cheese is a popular ingredient in many dishes, but some people may be concerned about its oxalate content, especially those who are prone to kidney stones. It is important to know that feta cheese contains 0mg of oxalates per 100 grams, which is considered a low oxalate level. This means that feta cheese can be a part of a low-oxalate diet, which typically includes other cheeses, meats, and certain fruits and vegetables. However, it's worth noting that cheese is generally high in calcium and sodium, so it should be consumed in moderation, especially by those with health concerns.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Oxalate content | 0mg per 100 grams |
| Considered | Low in oxalates |
| Animal products | Do not contain oxalate |
| Protein | 14.21g (28% Daily Value) |
| Fats | 21.28g (33% Daily Value) |
| Carbs | 4.09g (1% Daily Value) |
| Water | 55.22g (3% Daily Value) |
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What You'll Learn
Feta cheese is low in oxalate
Feta cheese is a popular ingredient in many dishes, and its low oxalate content makes it a good choice for people who are watching their oxalate intake. For example, zucchini and feta with spaghetti squash is a low-oxalate dish that can be a side or a main course for vegetarians.
Feta cheese also contains calcium, which can help reduce oxalate absorption in the body. This makes it a good choice for people who are at risk of kidney stones, as calcium binds with oxalic acid in the gut, reducing the amount that needs to be filtered by the kidneys.
However, it is important to note that feta cheese can be high in sodium, so it should be consumed in moderation, especially for those watching their sodium intake.
Overall, feta cheese is a low-oxalate food that can be enjoyed as part of a healthy diet, especially when paired with other low-oxalate ingredients.
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Feta cheese is safe for kidney stone patients
Feta cheese is considered safe for kidney stone patients as it is low in oxalates. According to sources, feta cheese has 0mg of oxalates per 100 grams. However, it is important to note that feta cheese is generally high in sodium, which can be a concern for those with kidney stones. Therefore, it is recommended to choose low-sodium cheeses or other calcium-rich foods to manage kidney stone issues effectively.
Kidney stone patients are often advised to follow a low-oxalate diet to prevent the formation of kidney stones. Oxalates are naturally occurring substances found in many foods, and when consumed in high amounts, they can increase the risk of kidney stone formation. By reducing oxalate intake, patients can lower the likelihood of kidney stone recurrence and improve their overall kidney health.
Cheese, in general, is known to be a high-calcium food, which can be beneficial for those concerned about kidney stones. Calcium has the ability to bind with oxalic acid, and when this process occurs in the gut instead of the kidneys, it results in the excretion of crystals through stool. This mechanism reduces the absorption of oxalates into the body and decreases the burden on the kidneys to filter them out.
While feta cheese is low in oxalates, it may not be the best option for kidney stone patients due to its high sodium content. Instead, patients can opt for cheeses like Swiss cheese, which has very little sodium and a higher percentage of the RDA of calcium. Another option is to include calcium-rich foods like potatoes, which have no oxalates and can be a good way to increase calcium intake while reducing oxalate absorption.
Additionally, kidney stone patients can explore dishes like zucchini and feta with spaghetti squash, which is a low-oxalate option. This dish combines ingredients that are either low or very low in oxalates, making it a suitable choice for those managing their kidney stone issues. However, it is always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or a dietician to determine the best dietary approach for managing kidney stone issues, as individual needs may vary.
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Feta cheese is a good source of calcium
Feta cheese is considered a good source of calcium. Calcium is essential for maintaining healthy teeth and bones, and feta cheese provides a good amount of this vital mineral. In fact, feta contains more calcium than many other types of cheese, such as mozzarella, ricotta, cottage cheese, and goat cheese. This makes it a great option for those looking to increase their calcium intake.
Feta cheese is also a good source of phosphorus, and consuming phosphorus and calcium together has been linked to improved bone density and a reduced risk of osteoporosis. Additionally, feta is a rich source of protein, which is another important component for bone health. The combination of calcium, phosphorus, and protein in feta cheese makes it an excellent choice for promoting and maintaining strong, healthy bones.
Feta cheese is also lower in fat and calories compared to other aged cheeses like cheddar or parmesan. This makes it a good option for those conscious of their calorie and fat intake. However, it is important to note that feta cheese does have a high sodium content, so it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
While feta cheese is a good source of calcium, it is important to consider overall calcium intake and the role of other foods in the diet. For example, those looking to reduce their oxalate intake may want to opt for Swiss cheese, which has very little sodium and a higher percentage of the RDA of calcium. Additionally, potatoes are a significant source of calcium and can be a good option for those watching their salt intake, as long as they are mindful of the high oxalate content.
In conclusion, feta cheese is indeed a good source of calcium, offering several potential health benefits, particularly for bone health. However, as with all foods, moderation is key, and including a variety of calcium-rich foods in the diet is important for overall health and well-being.
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Feta cheese pairs well with low-oxalate foods
Feta cheese is considered to be low in oxalates, with 0mg of oxalate per 100 grams. This is because animal products do not contain oxalates. However, feta cheese is high in sodium and calcium, which can be problematic for those prone to kidney stones. To reduce oxalate absorption and preserve bone health, it is recommended to increase calcium intake and lower oxalate intake.
For those on a low-oxalate diet, feta cheese can be paired with a variety of low-oxalate foods. Some options include:
- Fruits: Bananas, blueberries, strawberries, apples, peaches, and oranges are all low-oxalate fruits that can be enjoyed fresh or as toppings on yogurt or cottage cheese.
- Vegetables: Arugula, iceberg lettuce, romaine lettuce, cauliflower, cucumbers, mushrooms, onions, peas, and zucchini are all low in oxalates and can be used in salads or as toppings on sandwiches.
- Grains and starches: White rice, corn flour, and oat bran are good options for grains and starches on a low-oxalate diet.
- Proteins: Beef, chicken, fish, and eggs are all protein-rich foods that are low in oxalates.
When incorporating feta cheese into a low-oxalate diet, it is important to consider the overall sodium and calcium intake. While feta cheese can be a part of a low-oxalate diet, it should be consumed in moderation due to its high sodium and calcium content. Additionally, pairing it with low-oxalate foods can help maintain a balanced and healthy diet.
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Feta cheese is a healthier alternative to blue cheese
Feta cheese is considered a healthier alternative to blue cheese. While both cheeses are rich sources of calcium, zinc, and phosphorus, blue cheese contains higher amounts of sodium, saturated fat, and calories.
Feta cheese has more thiamin, riboflavin, and vitamin B6, and is also higher in cholesterol. It is a good source of B-complex vitamins, including B1, B2, B6, and B12. Feta is also lower in oxalates, with 0mg per 100 grams, which may be beneficial for those watching their oxalate intake due to kidney stones or other health concerns.
On the other hand, blue cheese contains higher amounts of calcium, zinc, phosphorus, and vitamins B5 and A. It is also a source of potassium, with 313% more potassium than feta cheese. Blue cheese is also known for its neuroprotective and anti-carcinogenic properties, as well as its positive impact on cardiovascular health.
Both cheeses are high in probiotics, which enhance gut health and digestion, and have been linked to a reduced risk of certain types of cancer. They are also both low in carbohydrates, with blue cheese having 2.3g of total carbs per 100 grams and feta cheese containing 3.9g.
While blue cheese has slightly more protein, with 51% more than feta cheese, feta has more carbohydrates and is lower in fat. Feta cheese is typically prepared from sheep or goat's milk and is considered a fresh cheese.
In summary, feta cheese is generally considered a healthier option due to its lower content of sodium, saturated fat, and calories. However, as registered dietitian nutritionist Sara Haas notes, balance and portion control are key, and both cheeses can be part of a healthy diet when consumed in moderation and balanced with other nutrient-dense foods.
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Frequently asked questions
No, feta cheese is considered to be low in oxalate, with 0mg per 100 grams.
Oxalic acid, or oxalate, is a compound found in many foods, including spinach, potatoes, and nuts. While it is naturally occurring and safe for most people, those who form kidney stones may need to monitor their oxalate intake.
Low-oxalate foods include cauliflower, corn, cucumber, mushrooms, onions, peas, scallions, squash, zucchini, tomatoes, beef, chicken, and fish. Some cheeses, like feta, are also low in oxalate.
