Feta cheese benefits and 5 reasons to eat it regularly
Illustrative photo (Freepik)
Feta is a white, salty, and crumbly Greek cheese traditionally made from sheep's and goat's milk. And it is full of beneficial properties, citing Good Food.
About feta cheese
Classified as a product with a protected designation of origin, any cheese sold as feta must meet specific requirements, including a minimum of 70% sheep's milk, which should come from local breeds of sheep or goats traditionally raised on local pastures and from designated parts of Greece.
Feta should contain no additives or preservatives.
Health benefits of feta
Source of bone-healthy calcium
Feta, like other dairy products, is rich in calcium, a mineral essential for muscle and nerve function, as well as for strong, healthy bones and teeth. A serving of cheese provides a beneficial contribution to meeting daily calcium needs, which is important at all stages of life. Feta is also a useful source of other bone-healthy nutrients, including phosphorus and protein, which can help maintain bone density.
Good source of protein
With its high protein content, feta is a valuable food, especially for those following a lacto-vegetarian diet. However, keep in mind that traditional feta is not strictly vegetarian, as it is made using animal-derived rennet.
Protein is essential for good health, as all muscles, skin, and blood are formed from this important macronutrient. We need sufficient amounts in our diet for growth, development, and repair of cells and tissues.
Supports gut health
Feta cheese contains beneficial microbes, including yeasts and bacteria such as *Lactobacillus plantarum*, which may help support gut health. In fact, probiotic yeasts from feta have been found to withstand low pH levels, giving them a better chance of surviving the harsh conditions of the stomach and reaching the part of the gut where they can be most valuable.
Contains beneficial fatty acids
Feta cheese contains a significant amount of a fatty acid called conjugated linoleic acid (CLA). Animal studies suggest that this fatty acid improves body composition by reducing body fat and increasing lean mass. Cheese made from sheep's milk has higher levels of CLA.
Keeps you fuller for longer
Since cheeses like feta are rich in protein and fat, and have a satisfying flavor, they may help keep you fuller for longer.
Is feta good for you?
When it comes to cheese, feta is a healthy choice. Not only is it packed with protein and fat—both essential nutrients that help you feel full and energized—but it is also beneficial for your gut.
Probiotic yeasts in feta may lower the pH in your stomach, which is key to gut health. Like all dairy products, feta is a good source of calcium, which is essential for strong teeth and bones.
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.
