If you're a cheese lover looking for a salty, chewy, and satisfying snack, you may want to give Halloumi Cheese a try. One serving (28 g) of Halloumi Cheese contains approximately 85 calories. It is a good source of protein, calcium, and zinc, but also has some sodium and fat content. Here's what you need to know about Halloumi Cheese nutrition and health benefits.
Halloumi Cheese has a relatively high fat content, but most of it comes from healthy fats, such as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. It also has a moderate protein content, which can help keep you fuller longer and support muscle growth and repair. Halloumi Cheese is low in carbohydrates, making it a good option for a low-carb or ketogenic diet. Additionally, it is a great source of calcium, iron, zinc, and phosphorus, which are essential minerals for bone health and other bodily functions.
Despite its high sodium content, which may not be suitable for people with high blood pressure or heart disease, Halloumi Cheese has been associated with some health benefits. It is a good source of probiotics, which can improve gut health and boost the immune system. Some studies also suggest that consuming Halloumi Cheese may lower the risk of certain diseases, such as type 2 diabetes and colon cancer. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings.
Halloumi Cheese Calories
One serving (28 g) of Halloumi Cheese contains approximately 85 calories, which is moderate for a cheese. However, keep in mind that the calorie count can add up quickly if you eat a larger portion or pair it with calorie-dense foods. To control your calorie intake, you may want to measure your portion of Halloumi Cheese, enjoy it in moderation, and pair it with nutrient-dense foods, such as vegetables or whole grains.
Halloumi Cheese Fat Content
Halloumi Cheese has a relatively high fat content, with one serving (28 g) providing about 7 g of fat, including 4 g of saturated fat. However, most of its fat comes from healthy sources, such as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which can have several health benefits. For example, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats can help lower the risk of heart disease, improve cholesterol levels, and reduce inflammation in the body. However, if you're watching your fat intake for weight management or health reasons, you may want to enjoy Halloumi Cheese in moderation or choose lower-fat cheese alternatives.
Halloumi Cheese Protein Content
Halloumi Cheese is a moderate source of protein, with one serving (28 g) providing about 6 g of protein. Protein is a crucial nutrient for building and repairing tissues, supporting the immune system, and maintaining healthy skin, hair, and nails. If you're a vegetarian or vegan, Halloumi Cheese can be a good addition to your diet, as it provides high-quality, complete protein that contains all essential amino acids. However, keep in mind that Halloumi Cheese is also high in sodium, which may not be suitable for some people.
Halloumi Cheese Sodium Content
Halloumi Cheese is relatively high in sodium, with one serving (28 g) providing about 320 mg of sodium, which is about 14% of the recommended daily intake. Sodium is an essential mineral that helps regulate blood pressure and fluid balance in the body, but excessive intake can increase the risk of high blood pressure, stroke, and heart disease. If you're watching your sodium intake, you may want to limit your consumption of Halloumi Cheese or choose lower-sodium cheese alternatives. You can also try rinsing the cheese in water, patting it dry with a paper towel, or soaking it in water for a short time before consuming to reduce the sodium content.
Halloumi Cheese Carbohydrates Content
Halloumi Cheese is low in carbohydrates, with one serving (28 g) providing only about 1 g of carbohydrates, which is about 0.5% of the recommended daily intake. Carbohydrates are the main source of energy for the body and play a crucial role in brain function, digestion, and metabolism. However, some people may want to limit their carbohydrate intake for weight management or health reasons, such as diabetes or metabolic syndrome. In that case, Halloumi Cheese can be a great option to add flavor and nutrients to their meals without adding too many carbs.
Halloumi Cheese Calcium Content
Halloumi Cheese is a great source of calcium, with one serving (28 g) providing about 200 mg of calcium, which is about 20% of the recommended daily intake for adults. Calcium is essential for strong bones and teeth, nerve function, muscle contractions, and blood clotting. If you're lactose intolerant or can't consume dairy products, you may want to choose calcium-fortified non-dairy alternatives, such as tofu, almond milk, or leafy greens, to meet your calcium needs. However, if you can tolerate dairy, Halloumi Cheese can be a delicious and easy way to boost your calcium intake.
Halloumi Cheese Iron Content
Halloumi Cheese is a good source of iron, with one serving (28 g) providing about 0.5 mg of iron, which is about 3% of the recommended daily intake for adults. Iron is essential for transporting oxygen in the blood, supporting immune function, and producing energy. If you're at risk of iron deficiency, such as women of reproductive age, vegetarians, or athletes, you may want to include iron-rich foods, such as red meat, poultry, fish, beans, nuts, and seeds, in your diet. However, keep in mind that Halloumi Cheese is also high in sodium and fat, so it's better to consume it in moderation.
Halloumi Cheese Phosphorus Content
Halloumi Cheese is a good source of phosphorus, with one serving (28 g) providing about 140 mg of phosphorus, which is about 14% of the recommended daily intake for adults. Phosphorus is essential for building strong bones and teeth, filtering toxins from the kidneys, and producing DNA and RNA. If you're following a high-protein diet or have kidney disease, you may want to monitor your phosphorus intake, as excessive intake can lead to bone loss, muscle weakness, and other health problems. However, for most people, Halloumi Cheese can be a healthy and delicious way to meet their phosphorus needs.
Halloumi Cheese Zinc Content
Halloumi Cheese is a good source of zinc, with one serving (28 g) providing about 1 mg of zinc, which is about 9% of the recommended daily intake for adults. Zinc is essential for immune function, wound healing, taste and smell perception, and DNA synthesis. If you're following a vegan or vegetarian diet, you may want to pay attention to your zinc intake, as plant-based sources of zinc are less bioavailable than animal-based sources. Halloumi Cheese can be a convenient and tasty way to boost your zinc intake, but keep in mind that it also contains some fat and sodium, so it's better to enjoy it in moderation.
Halloumi Cheese Health Benefits
Although Halloumi Cheese is not a superfood, it has some potential health benefits that are worth exploring. For example, it is a good source of probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that can improve gut health, enhance immune function, and reduce inflammation. Some studies also suggest that consuming Halloumi Cheese may lower the risk of certain diseases, such as type 2 diabetes and colon cancer, thanks to its high content of healthy fats, protein, and minerals. However, keep in mind that these findings are limited and more research is needed to confirm the health benefits of Halloumi Cheese.
Halloumi Cheese is a nutritious and delicious snack that can provide several health benefits, such as protein, calcium, and zinc. However, it's high in sodium and fat, so it's better to consume it in moderation or choose lower-sodium and lower-fat alternatives.
Frequently Asked Questions About Halloumi Cheese
1. What is Halloumi Cheese?
Halloumi cheese is a semi-hard, unripened cheese made from a mixture of sheep and goat milk, although cow milk can also be used. It originated in Cyprus and is popular in Mediterranean cuisine.
2. How is Halloumi Cheese used in cooking?
Halloumi cheese is often grilled or pan-fried, as it has a high melting point and can be cooked without losing its shape. It is also used in salads, sandwiches, and as a meat-alternative in vegetarian dishes.
3. Is Halloumi Cheese healthy?
Halloumi cheese is a good source of protein, calcium, and phosphorus. However, it is also high in saturated fat and sodium, so it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
4. Can Halloumi Cheese be eaten raw?
Halloumi cheese can be eaten raw, although it is often cooked or grilled to enhance its flavor and texture.
5. How should Halloumi Cheese be stored?
Halloumi cheese should be stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.