1 cubic inch of natural cheese contains approximately 62 calories. Cheese lovers can enjoy their favorite food while maintaining a healthy diet. But have you ever wondered about the nutritional value of natural cheese and how it can benefit your health?

Natural cheese offers various nutritional benefits. It is an excellent source of protein, calcium, vitamin D, and phosphorus. These nutrients are essential for the proper functioning of our body, including building and maintaining strong bones, muscle growth, and repair, and more. Additionally, natural cheese contains healthy fats and probiotics that can improve gut health and enhance your immune system. So, incorporating natural cheese into your diet can be a smart choice for a healthy lifestyle.

In this article, we'll explore the nutritional value of natural cheese, its difference from processed cheese, and some tips to choose the healthiest options. Additionally, we'll discuss the benefits and risks of consuming natural cheese and offer some delicious recipes to try.

The Nutritional Value of Natural Cheese

Natural cheese is an excellent source of various essential nutrients. Protein is one of the main components of cheese, and it provides amino acids that our body needs to build and repair muscles. Additionally, natural cheese is rich in calcium, which is vital for strong bones and teeth. Vitamin D present in cheese plays a crucial role in calcium absorption, and phosphorus helps our body use and store energy.

How to Incorporate Natural Cheese in Your Diet

Natural cheese is a versatile ingredient that you can easily incorporate into your daily diet. Here are some tips:

• Add shredded natural cheese to your salads, soups, or sandwiches.
• Use cheese as a topping on your whole-grain crackers or bread for a quick snack.
• Make a cheesy omelet or frittata for breakfast.
• Use natural cheese in your homemade pizza or lasagna.
• Enjoy cheese with fresh fruits or nuts as a healthy snack.

Cheese as a Source of Protein and Calcium

Protein and calcium are two essential nutrients for our body, and natural cheese is an excellent source of both. A piece of cheese contains around 7 grams of protein and 20% of the recommended daily calcium intake. So, consuming natural cheese regularly can help meet your daily protein and calcium requirements.

The Difference Between Natural and Processed Cheese

Natural cheese and processed cheese are two different types of cheese. Natural cheese is made from pure cheese curd, while processed cheese is made by combining natural cheese with other ingredients like emulsifiers and preservatives. Processed cheese has a longer shelf life and a smoother texture, but it contains more salt and fewer nutrients than natural cheese.

The Recommended Serving Size of Natural Cheese

Natural cheese is a calorie-dense food, so it's essential to consume it in moderation. The recommended serving size of natural cheese is one ounce or 28 grams, which is approximately one cubic inch.

Choosing the Healthiest Natural Cheese Option

Not all cheese is created equal, and some types of cheese are healthier than others. Here are some guidelines to choose the healthiest natural cheese option:

• Look for high-quality, organic cheese made from grass-fed cows.
• Select cheese varieties that are lower in sodium, such as mozzarella or ricotta.
• Choose aged or sharp cheeses, which are lower in lactose and fat than soft cheeses.
• Avoid cheese varieties that have added flavors or colors.

The Importance of Portion Control When Consuming Cheese

Cheese can be a healthy addition to your diet if consumed in moderation. However, since cheese is high in calories and fat, it's essential to pay attention to portion sizes. Stick to the recommended serving size of one ounce and limit your daily cheese consumption to prevent overeating.

The Benefits and Risks of Eating Natural Cheese

Natural cheese offers various benefits to our health, such as improving bone health, enhancing immunity, and supporting healthy digestion. However, consuming excessive amounts of cheese can cause health risks like weight gain, high cholesterol levels, and heart disease. So, consuming it in moderation is crucial to maintain a healthy diet.

How to Store Natural Cheese for Optimal Freshness

Proper storage is essential to keep natural cheese fresh and prevent spoilage. Here are some tips to store natural cheese for optimal freshness:

• Wrap the cheese in wax paper or cheese paper to allow it to breathe.
• Store in the warmest part of the refrigerator, such as the cheese drawer or the top shelf.
• Avoid storing cheese near vegetables or fruits as they release ethylene gas that can spoil the cheese faster.
• Use a separate container or bag for each type of cheese to prevent flavor transfer.
• Allow the cheese to sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to enhance its flavor before serving.

Delicious Recipes Using Natural Cheese

Here are some delicious recipes using natural cheese that you can try at home:

• Caprese Salad with Mozzarella Cheese: Combine sliced fresh mozzarella cheese, cherry tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and extra-virgin olive oil in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Spinach and Feta Frittata: In a non-stick skillet, cook chopped spinach until wilted. Add whisked eggs, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped scallions. Cook until the eggs are set and the cheese is melted.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Spread butter on two slices of whole-grain bread. Place one slice of mild cheddar cheese and one slice of Swiss cheese in between the bread. Grill until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
• Roasted Vegetable and Ricotta Pizza: Spread tomato sauce on a pre-made pizza crust. Top with chopped roasted vegetables like peppers, zucchini, and onions. Add dollops of ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil leaves. Bake in the oven until the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted.