Many people feel reluctance toward a weight loss plan, because they anticipate being ordered to give up their favorite foods. Fortunately, eliminating entire food groups is rarely necessary.

So if you’re worried about abandoning your love of cheese, don’t be. Cheese can be part of a healthy and balanced weight loss plan! Here’s what you need to know.

Yes, cheese can be healthy (in moderation). Like other dairy products, cheese provides calcium which helps you to maintain strong, healthy bones. Plus, it can be a good source of zinc, magnesium, vitamin A, and vitamin B12.

Cheese helps you feel full. Because cheese is made up of both protein and fat, a bit of cheese with your meal can help you feel full. And when you’re more satisfied, you’re more likely to resist cravings in between meals. Reducing the risk of blood sugar crashes means a more even mood and better energy, too.

Is cheese good for everyone? If you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure or high cholesterol, you might need to avoid the excess saturated fat in cheese. That doesn’t mean you can’t ever enjoy a bit of your favorite dairy product, but you might need to be a bit more cautious than most.

Those who are lactose intolerant might have trouble digesting cheese (especially in larger amounts). But the severity of this problem can vary from one person to the next; some find harder cheeses, like parmesan and cheddar, easier to tolerate than soft cheeses.

Watch your portion sizes. The main thing to remember about cheese is moderation. About an ounce of cheese is considered a portion. Those with a higher water content, like goat cheese, feta, and mozzarella, contain slightly fewer calories and are lower in fat than denser varieties.

If you have any other questions about your weight loss plan, and how to incorporate your favorite foods healthfully, give us a call to schedule an appointment. We can help you learn why almost no foods are completely off limits, and that you can still enjoy your favorite dishes in moderation.