Why Is Cottage Cheese Good for You?

You likely know that Greek yogurt is a healthy, high-protein, and low-carbohydrate snack that can help you lead a healthy lifestyle. But its close relative, cottage cheese, is also a nutritious and convenient source of protein and various micronutrients. Here’s why cottage cheese is good for you.

It’s a Great Source of Protein

One of cottage cheese/s most alluring features is the fact that it is high in protein–a cup generally has between 22 and 30 grams of protein (the exact amount will vary depending on the brand and fat content). Protein is a macronutrient that everyone needs, but it is especially vital for those with a high level of physical activity or for those on restricted-calorie diets.

Cottage cheese is made largely of the protein casein, a milk protein that digests slowly. Because casein provides a sustained release of protein in the body, it is a favorite of bodybuilders and other strength athletes. But this slow-release feature is also helpful if you’re trying to lose weight or just live a healthy lifestyle.

Protein is known for its ability to help you feel full, and the slow release of casein means that you’ll be less likely to suffer blood sugar crashes. When you incorporate cottage cheese into your diet, it will likely be easier to avoid giving in to cravings for sugar and other unhealthy foods.

It’s an Easy Way to Get Enough Calcium

Protein may be a major feature of cottage cheese, but this versatile snack is also high in calcium and vitamin D–two major supporters of bone health as well as general health.

While many people turn to calcium supplements to get their daily value of calcium, this mineral (like most) tends to absorb better when you consume natural sources. It can be hard to make sure you get enough dietary calcium, but cottage cheese offers an easy, convenient way to do so. Plus, you can eat it by itself or incorporate it into recipes.

Additionally, because there are a variety of cottage cheese brands available on the market, there is a form of cottage cheese that suits nearly everyone. If you want to stick to a low-fat diet, for instance, most manufacturers offer low-fat and fat-free varieties of cottage cheese. And if you’re lactose intolerant, Lactaid 1% Milkfat Low Fat Cottage Cheese gives you the opportunity to enjoy cottage cheese without worrying about the effects of lactose.

It is an Excellent Source of Several Vitamins and Minerals

Cottage cheese contains several trace elements that are necessary for general health. And as noted earlier, most nutrients tend to absorb better when they are found in natural sources. Some of the trace elements in cottage cheese include the following:

• zinc
• phosphorous
• selenium
• potassium
• magnesium
• sodium

Potassium, sodium, zinc, and magnesium are especially important if you lead an active lifestyle. Zinc is a mineral that is lost easily in sweat, so regular replenishment is necessary. And potassium, magnesium, and sodium are electrolytes that promote fluid balance, energy, and general health. Cottage cheese is also very high in B vitamins. These vitamins promote general health and support several metabolic functions. They also offer energy support.

How Can I Incorporate Cottage Cheese into My Diet?

Even if you know a given food is good for you, it may prove difficult to incorporate it into your diet if you don’t know how to prepare it. One great feature of cottage cheese is its versatility–it can be eaten by itself or paired with a variety of flavors. Because of its mild flavor, you can successfully pair cottage cheese with both sweet and savory flavors. You also can cook it into a variety of recipes.

If you want to spice up your cottage cheese but aren’t sure where to start, try adding some salt, pepper, and basil. Then, add some chopped tomatoes. Alternatively, cottage cheese goes well with a variety of fruits. If you want to build a meal around the cottage cheese, try adding it to a green salad or adding it to soups or stews.

If you prefer to take cottage cheese with you as a portable snack, but you still want some flavor variety, some manufacturers offer combination packs with a single serving of cottage cheese and a fruit topping. This makes it easy to try different flavors and keep cottage cheese interesting, but it saves you the hassle of having to prepare ingredients.

In short, if you’re looking for a nutrition-packed, filling, and affordable addition to your diet, cottage cheese may be what you’re looking for. Try adding it to a meal or making it your new afternoon snack!