Cottage cheese, made from curdled milk, offers numerous health benefits despite its ‘curdled’ nature. Here’s why you should consider adding it to your diet:
- High in Protein Cottage cheese is an excellent source of protein. One cup (220g) of full-fat cottage cheese contains 25.5g of protein, while a similar serving of low-fat cottage cheese has about 24.2g. Protein is essential for maintaining bones, muscles, skin, and cartilage, and it helps regulate hormones and deliver nutrients throughout the body .
- Rich in Calcium A cup of full-fat cottage cheese has 193.6mg of calcium, and the low-fat version contains 227mg. Calcium is crucial for healthy bones and teeth, heart rhythm regulation, nerve function, blood clotting, and muscle contraction. Adequate calcium intake is especially important for women to prevent osteoporosis .
- Supports Gut Health Cottage cheese contains beneficial bacteria due to its fermentation process, promoting a healthy gut. These probiotics can aid digestion and maintain a balanced gut flora. Look for labels indicating ‘cultured’ or listing live cultures for the best gut health benefits .
- Nutrient-Dense Besides protein and calcium, cottage cheese is packed with essential nutrients like vitamin B12, selenium, potassium, riboflavin, and phosphorus. These nutrients support various bodily functions and contribute to overall health .