Cheese is part of everyday life for many people and is often associated with a high fat content and a high number of calories.
As a result, it is frequently avoided during weight loss.
According to recent nutrition research, however, the picture is more nuanced. It is not just about cheese itself, but about how and how much it is consumed.
Why cheese is associated with weight gain
Research published in the journal PLoS One shows that foods containing both fat and carbohydrates can stimulate the brain’s reward system.
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Cheese also contains the protein casein, which can contribute to a feeling of well-being. This can make it easy to eat more than originally planned.
At the same time, cheese is energy-dense. Small amounts contain many calories, especially when eaten together with bread, pasta, or crackers.
This helps explain why cheese is often linked to weight gain.
Protein and satiety
According to Parade, which interviewed dietitian Ro Huntriss, protein plays an important role in satiety.
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Protein can help people feel full for longer and thereby make it easier to keep overall calorie intake down.
Ro Huntriss points out that cheese can be part of a healthy diet if it is used as a supplement rather than as a main component.
Especially when combined with vegetables or whole grains, it can contribute positively to a meal.
The best cheese
The cheese that, according to Ro Huntriss, provides the most protein relative to calories is Parmesan.
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It contains around 10 grams of protein per ounce, which is approximately 30 grams.
A review in Food Technology & Biotechnology also shows that Parmesan provides calcium and other compounds that can support bone health and digestion.
The point is not to eat more cheese, but to choose wisely and use it in small amounts.
Sources: Parade, PLoS One, and Food Technology & Biotechnology.
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