12/02/2025
đșđžđ§ Cheese isnât all the same!
Not all cheeses are high in protein, not all contain lactose â and some have way more salt than you think.
Is cheese healthy?
Yes! It gives you protein, calcium and healthy fats.
But some types have more cholesterol and sodium, so choosing wisely matters.
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đ« Cholesterol
All cheeses have cholesterol (they come from animals).
But the amounts vary:
đ Higher-fat cheeses (gorgonzola, parmesan, cheddar) â more cholesterol
đ Lighter options (ricotta, cottage, goat cheese) â less cholesterol
Tip: Choose cheeses with †60 mg cholesterol per 100 g.
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đ Quick comparison (per 100 g)
Cottage: 11 g protein · 4 g fat · 15 mg cholesterol · 370 mg sodium
Ricotta: 8 g protein · 10 g fat · 27 mg cholesterol · 170 mg sodium
Minas Frescal: 17 g protein · 20 g fat · 60 mg cholesterol · 450 mg sodium
Mozzarella: 26 g protein · 22 g fat · 90 mg cholesterol · 600 mg sodium
Parmesan: 36 g protein · 30 g fat · 110 mg cholesterol · 1,800 mg sodium
Gorgonzola: 21 g protein · 29 g fat · 90 mg cholesterol · 1,200 mg sodium
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đ§ Sodium
Aged cheeses (parmesan, gorgonzola, provolone) are very high in sodium.
Too much can raise blood pressure and increase bloating.
Prefer ricotta, cottage, or minas frescal.
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đ„ Lactose
Fresh cheeses â have lactose (ricotta, cottage, minas frescal)
Aged cheeses â almost lactose-free (parmesan, brie, gouda, gruyĂšre, gorgonzola)
đ The longer the aging, the less lactose.
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âš Choose based on your goal:
âïž Weight loss
đȘ Muscle gain
đ« Cholesterol control
Each cheese serves a different purpose.