Is Cheese Good for You?

From a delicious Cheddar paired with crunchy apples to stretchy mozzarella on a steaming hot veggie pizza, cheese plays a role in some of our favorite foods.

Plus, it comes in so many varieties, there’s certainly something for everyone’s taste. But, did you know cheese can also help you get some of the nutrients your body needs?

Like milk, cheese contains:

• Calcium: helps build and maintain strong bones and teeth.
• Protein: helps build muscle.
• Phosphorus: help with bone health and supports tissue growth.
• Vitamin B12: helps with normal blood function.
• Niacin and riboflavin: used in energy metabolism for processing food into energy.
• Iodine: critical for early brain development.
• Protein, vitamin B12 and selenium: support a healthy immune system.

Here’s a closer look at the nutrients that can be found in one serving (think 1.5 ounces, or the size of four dice) of low-moisture, part-skim mozzarella cheese:  

Is Cheese Good or Bad?

Cheese provides a number of important nutrients but it also contributes calories, saturated fat and sodium to the diet. The key to enjoying food, including delicious cheese, is moderation.

These nutrients can vary depending on your favorite type of cheese. Check its packaging to learn more.

What Is the Healthiest Cheese?

A wide range of cheeses have the nutritional benefits mentioned above. As for the best ways to eat them? Common cheeses like mozzarella melt well on a veggie pizza, and did you know Parmesan pairs well with pineapple? In fact, plants and dairy are the kind of power couple you want at your dining table. Try these plant-packed recipes to start.

Have more questions about cheese? We dive into the basics and common questions here.