Cheese is a tasty addition to any dish, but unfortunately, many people tend to avoid consuming it while trying to maintain a healthy diet. Although most people enjoy its flavor, they often need help incorporating it into their meals.
But that was before being introduced to feta.
Feta cheese is a special kind of cheese that is highly nutritious. It was traditionally made in Greece, and its name comes from the Greek word for slice. This kind of cheese is quite soft, and when touched, it breaks apart easily. It is white and made in a brine solution, making it one of the most beneficial cheeses available. So why this particular variety? Here are a few reasons:
It’s low in fat
Feta cheese, which has a strong flavor, provides a good amount of nutrition in a single ounce. This serving size has 74 calories and only 6 grams of fat! Comparably, cheddar has 9 grams of fat in a similar serving size. Additionally, feta cheese includes 1.9 percent of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), a beneficial fatty acid that can help with body composition, reduce fat mass, and increase lean body mass.
Feta is a good protein source
Feta cheese is also a great source of protein, with 4.8 grams of the nutrient in a 28-gram serving. Studies have revealed that the protein in this dairy product can help with insulin production and positively impact glucose levels, insulin sensitivity, and insulin secretion. The combination of minerals, such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium, along with healthy fats and low-GI sugars, are thought to be the reason for these effects.
It’s loaded with vitamins
Dairy products made from feta cheese are a good source of several important vitamins, minerals, and proteins. This is because feta cheese contains vitamin B6, A, and phosphorus, all essential for a healthy body. It also contains a small amount of vitamin B12. In addition, feta cheese contains histidine, an amino acid that, when combined with vitamin B6, produces a compound called histamine with anti-inflammatory properties.
Feta is also a great source of calcium
Feta cheese is an excellent source of calcium, providing 140 mg of calcium per every 28 gram serving. This calcium helps build strong bones and tooth enamel and may help protect the body from cancer. Feta is also a good source of other essential minerals such as magnesium, phosphorus, iron, manganese, selenium, zinc, and potassium. Research suggests that the protein alpha-lactalbumin found in feta has antibacterial and anti-tumor properties.
It’s packed with probiotics
Feta cheese is packed with beneficial bacteria that can help improve your health. It has been found to contain a major probiotic, lactobacillus plantarum, which makes up 48 percent of the cheese's bacteria. These good bacteria can help strengthen the immune system and protect the gut from harmful bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella. Thus, eating feta cheese may aid in fighting off infection and disease.
In closing, fetch some feta!
Don't hesitate any longer! Get creative with feta cheese and satisfy your taste buds. Your options are endless - from salads to fruit bowls and dips, feta will bring out the flavors in full force.
For fresh dairy products made from one of the largest cattle farms in the region, buy Baladna. Our comfortable and well-conditioned environment houses up to 24,000 cows that deliver high-quality milk, cheese, and more. Take a look at our offerings on our website today!
