Low in calories and fat compared to other cheeses, cottage cheese is often recommended for weight loss. Made from cow’s milk, it has a soft, almost creamy texture. Its mild flavour comes from the production process as it doesn’t go through an ageing phase and therefore, does not develop a strong flavour. Cottage cheese has the advantage of being very versatile and can be used in different forms like a yogurt, on pancakes or even a replacement for mayonnaise. It’s easy to make at home too. Read on for Cottage Cheese: Top 5 Health Benefits!
1. Packed with Nutrients
Cottage cheese has been found to be full of nutrients that our body crucially needs to function. When they come from food, nutrients play a huge role in the human body and are vital for disease prevention, growth and overall good health. Here is a short list of some of the nutrients present in the cheese:
- Vitamins: Benefits nerves & blood cells (Vitamin B12 is among several other vitamins present such as A, C and D)
- Magnesium: Considered a natural ‘anti-stress’ nutrient and helps create and repair DNA
- Zinc: Supports skin health and a healthy heart
- Amino Acids: Important for mood and sleep. They can also increase your exercise performance
2. Source of Muscle-Building Protein
The fitness world has seen a boom in protein powders, bars and even nut butters but food still remains the primary natural source of protein. In comparison to other dairy products, cottage cheese presents a relatively high amount of protein. This biomolecule is never to be considered merely an afterthought as it is always associated with improved fat loss, muscle gain, recovery and athletic performance. A portion of 100g of cottage cheese can contain nearly 11-12g of protein, representing 20% of the average person’s daily requirements. Beyond the fitness advantages, protein is also used by the body to build and repair tissues such as nails and hair.
3. Supports Heart Health
Cottage cheese helps to keep blood pressure levels stable and therefore, prevents cardiovascular diseases like hypertension. The presence of vitamin B12 benefits the reduction of homocysteine in the body known to be the catalyst for heart disease.
4. Source of Probiotics for Gut Health
Probiotic bacteria are known to restore the natural balance of gut bacteria. They also have an impact on mental health. Several studies have investigated the subject and found that having good gut bacteria can improve upon some mental health disorders such as depression or hyperactivity. However, it is better to check the label of your cottage cheese as not all companies incorporate probiotics in their cheeses.
5. Magnesium Helps Support Healthy Blood Pressure
Cottage cheese is also a great option for diabetics to help keep their blood sugar levels under control. Being carbohydrate and sugar free, this cheese’s magnesium content also helps to regulate blood pressure. The mineral prevents blood vessels from cramping which can lead to blood pressure.
