A Look at the Delightful World of Halloumi Cheese & Its Health Benefits

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Halloumi cheese has been an all-time favorite among foodies for generations —going back to Cyprus where it is said to have originated. It has become a popular cheese in many countries around the world and has a special place in the hearts of cheese lovers in the MENA region. But what exactly is halloumi cheese? It's a firm, white cheese characterized by a high-fat content and a robust, salty flavor. Crafted from a blend of sheep's and goat's milk, halloumi boasts a high melting point, making it perfect for grilling or frying.

Beyond its delectable taste and versatility, halloumi cheese offers a compelling choice for those seeking high-protein, low-carbohydrate options. It is also a great option for lactose-intolerant people, as it is very low in lactose. Halloumi cheese is also a good source of phosphorus. However, it contains a high amount of saturated fat and sodium, so if you're watching your weight, you may want to limit your intake of this type of cheese.

A look at the nutritional side of halloumi cheese

The nutritional value of halloumi cheese varies depending on the type of milk used to make it. For example, halloumi cheese made from sheep's milk contains more fat and protein than that made from goat's milk. However, both types of halloumi cheese are good sources of calcium and phosphorus.

As per USDA, here is a look at the nutritional value of one ounce (28 grams) of halloumi cheese:

Calories: 90

Fat: 7 grams

Saturated Fat: 5 grams

Cholesterol: 19.9 mg

Sodium: 350 mg

Carbohydrates: 1 gram

Protein: 6 grams

Calcium: 390 mg

What are the health benefits of halloumi cheese?

There are many health benefits to consuming halloumi cheese. Here are a few:

1. Promotes muscle growth
Did you know that one ounce of halloumi cheese contains about 7 grams of protein? This type of cheese is great for growth and muscle repair. The higher the protein content, the better your production of enzymes and hormones.

2. Aids in digestion

Halloumi cheese contains high levels of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which has been shown to aid in digestion. CLA is a type of fatty acid that helps break down food and absorb nutrients.

3. Reduces inflammation

Halloumi cheese also contains high levels of selenium, which is a mineral that has anti-inflammatory properties. Selenium helps reduce inflammation throughout the body, which can help relieve pain and improve joint health.

4. Boosts immune system

The high levels of selenium in halloumi cheese also help boost the immune system. Selenium helps produce antibodies that fight off infection and disease.

5. Supports bone health

Halloumi cheese is a good source of calcium, which is necessary for the development and maintenance of strong bones. Calcium also helps regulate muscle contractions and nerve impulses.

6. Prevents Type 2 Diabetes

Including halloumi cheese in your diet is a great way to help prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes. This is because halloumi cheese is rich in conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which has been shown to help improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control.

The cheesy takeaway

Not only is halloumi cheese a great source of protein, calcium, zinc, and phosphorus, but it is also delicious. Whether you're on a keto diet, low-calorie diet, or just a halloumi fan, Baladna has got you covered. From halloumi and Greek feta to cheddar and goat cheese, we offer a wide range of cheeses that are perfect for different meals of the day.

It’s time to stock up on these delicious cheeses today. Browse through our selection here to get started!

13 May, 2024

Unlocking Radiance: 8 Health and Beauty Benefits of Dairy

We all know that dairy products are jam-packed with essential nutrients that are crucial for our overall health. But did you know that they can also work wonders for your looks? Your diet can significantly impact your appearance, and dairy can play a big role in boosting your natural beauty.Dairy products offer a ton of benefits to our overall well-being, including improving our skin and hair health, and providing us with the vital nutrients we need to look and feel our best.If you're curious about how dairy products can support your overall health and beauty, you're in the right place. Keep reading to discover the exciting benefits that dairy has to offer!1. Calcium glow-up for your skinDairy products are rich in calcium and vitamin A, which are vital for healthy skin. Vitamin A can help protect your skin from damage, while calcium keeps your skin cells healthy and reduces the appearance of dark spots.2. Hair majesty with dairy goodnessThe protein and biotin in dairy products help strengthen hair and prevent breakage, while the fatty acids help add shine and moisture to your hair.3. Dairy is your secret energy elixirDairy products are a good source of energy-boosting nutrients like B vitamins and magnesium. These nutrients can help improve your energy levels and help you feel good.4. Trimming down with dairy The protein in dairy products can promote feelings of fullness, allowing you to eat less throughout the day. The calcium in dairy can also help boost your metabolism and aid in burning more calories.5. Gut wellness unleashed The probiotics in dairy products can help keep your gut healthy and can improve your overall digestion. The calcium in dairy products can also help promote regularity and can help reduce the risk of constipation.6. Heart guardian: Dairy to the rescueStudies have shown that dairy intake is associated with a lower risk of high blood pressure, stroke, and heart attacks, making it an excellent option for protecting your heart.7. Bone and teeth fortification with dairy powerDairy products are an excellent source of calcium and Vitamin D, which are essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth.8. Keeping your blood pressure in checkAnother fantastic way that dairy products can positively impact your health is by maintaining healthy blood pressure. This is due to the fact that dairy products are an excellent source of potassium, a crucial nutrient that helps regulate fluid levels and prevent cramping. When your body has an adequate amount of potassium, it helps to maintain healthy blood pressure levels, which is essential for reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.One cup of milk contains around 380 mg of potassium, while an ounce of cheddar cheese contains about 172 mg of potassium.A natural beauty booster, anyone? Dairy products are a fantastic addition to your diet if you're looking to improve your health and beauty. They offer a broad range of benefits that can help enhance different aspects of your overall well-being, including your skin, hair, heart, and gut health, energy levels, and bone and teeth strength.When it comes to premium milk and dairy products, look no further than Baladna. From fresh milk to yoghurt, cheese, and more, Baladna offers a wide range of exceptional dairy products to suit all your dietary needs and preferences.

14 May, 2024

Everything You Need to Know About Akawi Cheese

Akawi is a type of cheese most commonly associated with Middle Eastern cuisine. It is a white cheese made from sheep’s or goat’s milk and has a salty, tangy flavor. Akawi cheese is an essential ingredient in many Middle Eastern dishes and is a favorite among many cultures. It is commonly used in Middle Eastern dishes such as manakeesh, sambusek, and kunafa. It can also be used to top salads, sandwiches, and pizzas. It is also a great addition to sauces and dips. Akawi cheese is also a great ingredient when used in baking, as it adds a salty, creamy flavor to bread and pastries.Akawi cheese is made from unpasteurized sheep’s or goat’s milk that is pressed and salted. The cheese is then aged for two to three months, forming its unique tangy flavor. Akawi cheese is light yellow in color. It has a distinctive soft texture and salty taste. The cheese is usually sold in blocks or rounds. The health benefits of akawiAkawi cheese is a healthy and nutritious food rich in protein and calcium. It is also a good source of vitamins A, B2, and B12, as well as minerals such as zinc and iron. Eating Akawi cheese can also help reduce cholesterol levels as it is low in saturated fat. Akawi cheese also contains probiotics, which can help improve digestion and boost the immune system.Akawi cheese is an excellent choice for those looking to add delicious and healthy food to their diet. With its unique flavor and nutritional benefits, it is sure to be a hit in any meal.Tips for using akawi cheese in cookingAkawi cheese can be used in various dishes, from salads and sandwiches to pizzas and pastas. When using Akawi cheese in cooking, it is best to grate it before adding it to a dish. This will help to ensure that the cheese melts quickly and evenly.Try adding herbs and spices such as oregano, thyme, and garlic to give a dish an extra boost in flavor. For a creamy, flavorful dip, try combining Akawi cheese with Greek yogurt and spices.A salty and tangy addition to your cheese collection! Akawi is a traditional and popular type of cheese used in Middle Eastern cuisine. It is made from soft, brined sheep's or goat's milk and is characterized by its salty and tangy taste and soft texture. The cheese is often eaten as a snack and is also used in a variety of traditional dishes. Akawi is an important part of the culinary heritage of Middle Eastern countries, and its unique flavor and texture make it an excellent addition to a variety of dishes.Baladna is the best dairy and beverage company in Qatar. Shop our dairy products now and experience the difference.

23 September, 2024

5 Surprising Reasons Why Yoghurt Is Essential for a Healthy Gut

Who doesn't love a good helping of yoghurt? It's a delicious and nutritious snack that you can enjoy - both to satisfy your sweet tooth or your savory cravings. What’s more, yoghurt offers various health benefits as it boosts your immunity and reduces the risk of certain diseases.Most importantly, yoghurt contains nutrients, vitamins, minerals, and probiotics that can help keep your digestive system running smoothly. In this article, you'll find out why yoghurt can do wonders for your gut health. 1. Regulates digestive health Yoghurt plays a key role in keeping your gut healthy and balanced because it is rich in probiotics. These live bacteria and yeasts aid digestive health and help support the growth of healthy bacteria in the stomach. Eating yoghurt with active cultures can help balance bacteria in the digestive system. Additionally, probiotics can help reduce symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, diarrhea, and other digestive issues.2. Gives your stomach what it needsBecause yoghurt is so nutritious, it can provide many health benefits. This snack is an excellent source of calcium, potassium, phosphorus, and magnesium, all of which are important minerals and nutrients necessary for a healthy body. These minerals and nutrients help nourish and maintain the digestive system, providing essential support for the body. Additionally, yoghurt is rich in protein, which maintains the integrity of the gut lining and keeps the digestive system healthy.3. Reduces gut inflammationConsuming yoghurt can significantly reduce inflammation in the digestive system while maintaining good digestive health. Studies have shown that incorporating yoghurt into your diet can help lower cytokine levels, substances that can cause inflammation. Decreasing inflammation in the digestive tract can improve your digestive well-being and reduce your risk of various digestive issues.4. Prevents certain diseasesAs mentioned earlier, the probiotics in yoghurt restore balance in our gut flora. This means that they help balance the amount of "bad" and "good" bacteria in the gut, which are crucial for the proper digestion and absorption of nutrients and minerals. The same good bacteria can also strengthen our immune system and reduce the risk of irritable bowel syndrome, heart disease, type-2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer like colorectal cancer.5. Improves moodEating yoghurt isn't just good for your physical health, but your mental health as well. Certain studies have shown that probiotics can help reduce stress levels. This is because the "good" bacteria found in yoghurt can help balance the levels of serotonin, the neurotransmitter responsible for regulating mood. With that said, the next time you're feeling down, consider eating some yoghurt to help boost your mood.A few things to rememberFirst, when buying yoghurt, you should always check the label to ensure it contains "live and active cultures." This means that the yoghurt contains beneficial bacteria that are alive and active. Second, yoghurt with added sugar is okay, but watching your intake is crucial as too much sugar can be unhealthy. Finally, you should consider buying plain yoghurt and adding some fresh fruit, nuts, or seeds for a nutritious and tasty snack.It’s yoghurt, a big scoop of nutrients! Yoghurt offers many benefits to support a healthy gut. Not only is yoghurt a fantastic source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, but it also contains good bacteria that can help digestion and encourage their growth in the gut. Yoghurt also enhances the immune system, reduces inflammation, and helps prevent diseases like diabetes and cancer.Baladna offers a wide selection of nutritious yoghurt produced from fresh farm milk. It's rich in essential vitamins and minerals and keeps your gut healthy and happy. Contact us to order a cup or tub of Baladna yoghurt!

16 August, 2024

Cheddar Cheese : A Guide To This Classic Dairy Product

Cheese lovers rejoice! We’ve put together this comprehensive guide to cheddar cheese to highlight its origins, varieties, and uses. After reading it, we’re sure you’ll know this classic dairy product inside and out. As one of the world's most popular types of cheese, cheddar is loved for its distinctively sharp flavor and creamy texture. So whether you're a cheese connoisseur or just curious about the basics of this delicious staple, read on to learn more about cheddar cheese.What is cheddar cheese?Cheddar cheese originated in England and is one of the world's most popular and widely consumed types of cheese. Rich yellow or white cheddar cheese has a distinctive sharp, acidic flavor, ranging from mild to extra sharp.Cheddar cheese is typically aged from two months to five years, with extended aging periods resulting in sharper flavors. The longer the cheese ages, the less moisture it contains and the firmer its texture. What is the difference between white and yellow/orange cheddar?White and yellow/orange cheddar cheese are two popular variations of the same type of cheese. There are several differences between the two varieties.- Appearance: White cheddar is creamy and off-white, while yellow/orange cheddar is bright orange-yellow. This color difference is due to adding annatto, a natural food coloring, to yellow/orange cheddar. White cheddar does not contain this food additive.- Flavor: White cheddar has a mild flavor with notes of sweet, nutty, and buttery flavors, while yellow/orange cheddar has a slightly sharper and more intense flavor thanks to the annatto coloring agent.- Nutrition: Yellow/orange cheddar is higher in vitamin A than white cheddar due to the annatto coloring. Otherwise, both kinds of cheese are high in fat and calories, offering similar amounts of protein and calcium. How is cheddar cheese normally used?Cheddar cheese is primarily used for melting on top of dishes such as burgers or grilled sandwiches and shredding over salads or soups.Cheddar is also used in other dishes, such as casseroles, quiches, and macaroni and cheese. The rich flavor of cheddar cheese adds depth and complexity to these dishes. Cheddar cheese is often used in sauces, dips, spreads, and dressings. Its sharp taste is perfect for adding flavor to these foods without the need for additional spices or seasonings.Another widespread use for cheddar cheese is in the form of snacks. Cheddar cheese can be easily cubed for snacking or melted onto crackers for a tasty treat. Cubes of cheddar cheese are often added to fruit platters or charcuterie boards, creating a delicious snack that everyone will enjoy. It is also great for grating into dips or making cheesy toppings for nachos or pizza. How do you store cheddar cheese?To store cheddar cheese the right way, wrap it tightly in wax or parchment paper and place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Ensure all edges are sealed tightly to avoid air from entering. This will help prevent mold from forming and spoiling the flavor of the cheese. It's also essential to keep the cheese away from other food items, as cheddar cheese has a powerful smell and taste that can be easily transferred to other foods.It’s a bold world with cheddar cheese Whether you're a long-time cheddar cheese lover or just starting to incorporate it into your dishes, we hope this guide helped you understand all the delicious possibilities this timeless dairy product offers. With its nutty, sharp taste and endless versatility, why not let cheddar cheese take center stage in your next dish? If you're looking for a trusted dairy and beverage company in Qatar to purchase the finest cheddar cheese from, Baladna is the answer. Our wide selection of cheddar cheese is made with the highest-quality milk and brings you bold flavors with every bite. Get yours now!