Most cheeses contain high saturated fat and sodium, but it doesn’t mean you must avoid cheese altogether when you have a high cholesterol problem. Dietitians suggest that moderation and the right selection of cheeses are the keys to getting the most out of cheese without jeopardizing your health.
Here’s a list of cheeses that are safe to eat when you have high cholesterol.
Feta
Feta cheese is a good option to include in your diet. Its intense flavor means you only need a little amount to add to your salad to elevate the taste. But most importantly, feta cheese is low in cholesterol (25 milligrams per ounce) and saturated fat (3 grams).
Mozzarella
Mozzarella cheese is low in cholesterol (15 milligrams) and saturated fat (3 grams). It’s also a good source of active cultures that benefit gut health and reduces inflammation. Some people prefer the fresh, part-skim mozzarella as the healthier option.
Part-Skim Ricotta
Part-skim ricotta cheese is a good choice as it has low cholesterol (19 milligrams per 1/4 cup) and saturated fat (3.5 grams) content. It’s known for its versatility and creaminess. You can use it as a spreadable substitute for cream cheese with celery sticks.
Cottage Cheese
Cottage cheese is good for heart health due to its high protein and low-fat content. A serving of cottage cheese contains 3.5 grams of saturated fat and 25 milligrams of cholesterol. Consider selecting cultured cottage cheese to improve your gut microbiome.
String Cheese
Low-fat string cheese is an excellent option for people with high cholesterol. This type of cheese has 70-80 calories per serving and 3 milligrams of saturated fat. String cheese generally comes in individual packages, making it easier to prevent overeating.
Harmless in a Measurable Way
Cheese is not harmful to people with high cholesterol when consumed correctly. However, it’s advisable to consult your dietitian or nutritionist to confirm which cheese suits your specific condition and how much you can consume.
