Say Cheese!

Can you imagine what the world would be like without cheese? We like to say, nonexistent! Cheese is one of those foods that make any meal better than it was. It’s stringy and gooeyness when melted is without a question, eaten with your eyes closed so that you can taste every bite.
Cheese dates back 7,000 years. Just like some foods, it was discovered by accident from storing and transporting dairy, specifically milk inside of an animal’s stomach, later turning from milk into curd. Although there is no exact evidence on where cheese was first discovered, the earliest recorded evidence of the existence of cheese was shown in Poland. Cheese can be made by milk from cows, goats, sheep and even buffalos.
Cheese comes in many textures and flavors and can be consumed depending on your preference. It can be eaten cold or warm and melted. Of course, cheese is known as unhealthy and full of fat, however it is an excellent source of calcium, protein and several other nutrients. That said, there are some types of cheeses that are much healthier than others and if eaten well, can even help in weight loss. To be exact, we’ll name 5 of the healthiest types of cheeses for you to explore next time you’re out grocery shopping.

1. Mozzarella
   Originally from Italy, Mozzarella is a type of white cheese that is soft and high in moisture. Unlike most of the other cheeses, mozzarella is low in sodium and calories. To be precise, 28 grams of Mozzarella contains 85 calories, 6 grams of protein, 6 grams of fat, 1 gram of carbs, 76mg of sodium and 14% of calcium.
   To prove even more beneficial, mozzarella contains a bacteria that acts as a probiotic which studies show helps to improve gut health, fight inflammation in your body and improve your immunity. Not only is Mozzarella healthy, it tastes amazing!
2. Feta
   Go Greek or Go Home! Feta is a soft, salty white cheese that is typically made from sheep or goat milk. Because it is stored in brine to preserve freshness, feta is usually higher in sodium yet much lower in calories compared to other types of cheese. 28 grams of Feta contains 80 calories, 6 grams of protein, 5 grams of fat, 1 gram of carbs, 370mg sodium and 10% of calcium.
   Feta also contains conjugated linoleic acid which is related with reduced body fat and improved body composition. Crumbling it over a salad or eggs does not only elevate your meal, it watches your waistline too!
3. Blue cheese
   With a tangy, bold flavor, blue cheese is made from cow, goat or sheep milk. For many, blue cheese is an acquired taste but extremely nutritious and very high in calcium which is a nutrient important for bone health. Typically eaten as a topping in burgers blue cheese contains 28 grams of full fat blue cheese contains 100 calories, 6 grams of protein, 8 grams of fat, 1 gram of carbs, 380mg of sodium and 33% calcium.
4. Ricotta
   Originating from Italy, ricotta is a creamy, lighter type of white cheese made from the water parts of cow, sheep, goat or Italian water buffalo milk that is left over after making other cheeses.
   Half a cup of ricotta contains 180 calories, 12 grams of protein, 12 grams of fat, 8 grams carbs, 300mg sodium and 20% calcium. The protein in ricotta cheese contains amino acids that increase muscle growth, lower blood pressure and reduce high cholesterol levels. Ricotta is perfect in scrambled eggs, pasta, lasagna as well as a base in creamy dips.
5. Parmesan
   Aged for almost a year to kill harmful bacteria, parmesan is a salty, hard textured and gritty cheese. Since parmesan is aged for quite some time, it has a very low level of lactose. 28 grams of this cheese contains 110 calories, 10 grams of protein, 7 grams of fat, 3 grams of carbs, 330mg sodium and lastly, 34% calcium.
   Rich in calcium and phosphorus, parmesan helps in bone formation and largely, promotes bone health. Parmesan can be enjoyed with chicken or grated over pizza and pasta. Next time you’re out at an Italian restaurant, don’t forget to ask for extra parmesan