Cheese and High Cholesterol: Is It Safe to Eat?‍

Cheese belongs to dairy products and consuming it has a cholesterol-increasing effect. This doesn’t imply that you should eliminate it from your diet as cheese has many nutritional benefits. The extent to which your cholesterol gets affected due to the consumption of cheese depends on the type of cheese you are consuming. Having cholesterol problems, you might be wondering what to include or exclude to create a balanced diet. To be able to create a nutritious diet without sacrificing cheese, you must know the cholesterol content of different types of cheese and whether its consumption is safe for you. 

Cheese and High Cholesterol - Everything you need to know

Cheese is high in cholesterol and therefore you must know everything about its consumption to be able to relish it and make it a part of your diet. The saturated fat content of cheese makes it unsuitable for people with high cholesterol. However, different types of cheese have different cholesterol content. Therefore, you must know which is the healthiest cheese that you can consider adding to your diet. Irrational consumption of cheese can lead to spiked cholesterol levels, on the other hand, if you consume it in moderation then cheese cholesterol will not harm your cholesterol levels. To be able to make it a part of your diet, you must know everything related to cholesterol in cheese and how it affects your body. ‍

How much cholesterol is in cheese?

Usually, dairy products are high in cholesterol and saturated fat content, the same is the case with cheese. However, depending on the type of cheese you are consuming the cholesterol and saturated fats present in cheese vary. Here are a few cheese types and their cholesterol and saturated fat content. 

If you are stressed about your cholesterol levels, you must read food labels before buying and consuming them. As per the values provided above, low-fat cheese has the least amount of cholesterol present in it. Added to that, be mindful of the quantity of cheese you are consuming as consuming excessive quantities will increase the level of saturated fats and cholesterol you intake. 

Does cheese raise cholesterol levels?

Cheese is amongst the top foods that increase the cholesterol fats in the body. However, opting for a cheese type that has low cholesterol content is a healthy choice. As per studies, there is not much evidence available to establish a strong link between high-cholesterol foods and the level of cholesterol of the person who consumes such foods. What makes cheese harmful is the presence of saturated fat in it. Consumption of too much-saturated fats can lead to a spike in cholesterol levels. 

Although cheese consumption can affect cholesterol levels. If you eat low-fat cheese in moderation then you can make it a part of your diet without making it harmful to your health. You can also consult your nutritionist about what type of cheese is suitable for you and how much is the safe limit for your condition. ‍

Is cheese good or bad for cholesterol?

Cheese is either bad or good for cholesterol depending upon the type of cheese and the quantity you are consuming. Ordinary cheese is high in cholesterol content and added to that, it consists of a high amount of saturated fats which makes its consumption not ideal for people with high cholesterol levels. For cheese cholesterol to be healthy for your body you must go for low-fat or fat-free cheese. 

Eating foods with high saturated fats will increase the level of bad cholesterol in the body which leads to plaque buildup and eventually narrowing and clogging of arteries. This increases your chances of experiencing complications such as heart attack, strokes, etc. Therefore, you must opt for the right type of cheese. 

The market is flooded with different types of cheese and choosing the right one can be confusing. Simply, develop the habit of reading food labels that will make you aware of its components. 

Making cheese consumption good or bad depends on what choice you make while buying a different type of cheese and how rationally to accommodate cheese in your diet. 

Which Cheeses Are Lowest in Cholesterol and Fat?  

Although cheese is a good source of calcium and protein, the negative aspect that it consists of saturated fats and cholesterol cannot be neglected. Consuming an excessive quantity of cheese can increase the LDL levels in your body which can lead to other medical complications. 

The good news is that you can still make it a part of your diet if you opt for the right type of cheese that is fat-free and low in cholesterol. Cheese types such as cream cheese, cheddar cheese, Mexican cheese, American cheese, Swiss cheese, etc. are not ideal for people with high cholesterol levels. Instead, switch them with cheese types with low fat and cholesterol content. 

Some healthy cheese options include low-fat cottage cheese, fat-free American cheese, non-fat cheeses, ricotta cheese, etc. The low saturated fat content makes these cheeses suitable for people with high cholesterol levels. 

Bottomline

If you have high cholesterol levels or if you are prone to other heart disorders you must consult a dietitian before making changes in your diet. Apart from having an unhealthy diet, many other factors contribute to abnormal cholesterol levels. Such factors include physical inactivity, addictions such as smoking and alcoholism, etc. However, diet plays a major role in keeping cholesterol levels under control. 

Although cheese has some health benefits, it can affect you adversely if its saturated content is high. To reap the best out of it, you must consume cheese rationally in the right quantity. 

FAQ

1. Is cheese bad for your cholesterol?‍

Cheese that contains excessive saturated fats and is high in cholesterol content is bad for your cholesterol levels. Therefore, it is said to consume it mindfully. Added to that, if you consume it heedlessly, it can worsen your cholesterol levels. Go for low-fat cheese types as these are healthier options. 

2. Does cheese have a lot of cholesterol?

The cholesterol content of cheese depends on the cheese type you are consuming. Cheese types such as cheddar, Mexican, and American are high in cholesterol content therefore, you must limit their intake. Instead, switch to healthier fat-free options. 

3. Can I Eat Cheese If I Have High Cholesterol?

If you have elevated cholesterol levels then non-fat cheese which is free from saturated fats is suitable for your consumption. You can relish it but be mindful of the quantity you are consuming as this factor can impact your cholesterol levels negatively or positively.