10 of the Best Cheeses For Weight Watchers

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A variety of cheeses on a plate

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When it comes to weight loss, cheese is often seen as an unhealthy food. However, not all cheeses are created equal. Some cheeses are actually quite low in calories and fat, and can be a healthy addition to a weight loss diet. One of the best cheeses for weight loss is cottage cheese. Cottage cheese is a low-fat, high-protein cheese that is also a good source of calcium. It is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of dishes, including salads, sandwiches, and casseroles. Another good cheese for weight loss is ricotta cheese. Ricotta cheese is a soft, creamy cheese that is also low in fat and calories. It is a good source of protein and calcium, and can be used in a variety of dishes, including lasagna, ravioli, and cheesecake.

In addition to cottage cheese and ricotta cheese, there are a number of other cheeses that can be included in a weight loss diet. These include:

  • Feta cheese
  • Mozzarella cheese
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Swiss cheese

These cheeses are all relatively low in calories and fat, and can be used in a variety of dishes. When choosing cheese for a weight loss diet, it is important to read the nutrition label carefully. Some cheeses may be labeled as “low-fat” or “fat-free,” but they may still contain a high number of calories. It is also important to limit the amount of cheese that you eat, as even low-fat cheeses can be high in calories if you eat too much of them.

Cheeses with Low Fat Content

When it comes to choosing cheese for weight watchers, opting for options with lower fat content is key. These cheeses provide a satisfying dairy experience without adding excessive calories to your diet. Let’s explore some of the best low-fat cheese options available:

Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is a versatile and surprisingly low-fat cheese favorite. With only 4% milkfat, it’s an excellent source of protein and calcium without the guilt. Its creamy texture and mild flavor make it perfect for salads, dips, spreads, and even as a standalone snack.

Here’s a table summarizing the nutritional value of cottage cheese:

Nutrient Per 100g
Calories 98
Fat 4g
Protein 11g
Calcium 80mg

Cheeses with High Protein Content

For those following a Weight Watchers (WW) diet, choosing low-point cheeses can be a great way to satisfy cravings while staying within calorie limits. Here are some of the best cheese options for WW:

Cheeses with High Protein Content

Protein is an essential nutrient for building and repairing tissues and helps keep you feeling full longer. Here are some cheese options with high protein content:

Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is a versatile cheese that can be used in various dishes or eaten alone. With 28 grams of protein per cup, it’s a great choice for those looking to increase their protein intake. It’s also low in points, making it a budget-friendly option.

Greek Yogurt Cheese

Greek yogurt cheese is a delicious substitute for regular cheese. It contains around 20 grams of protein per cup and is strained to remove excess liquid, resulting in a thicker, creamier texture. Like cottage cheese, it’s a versatile ingredient that can be used in both sweet and savory recipes.

Parmesan Cheese

Parmesan cheese is a hard, salty cheese commonly used as a topping for pasta dishes and salads. With 22 grams of protein per ounce, it’s a great source of protein and calcium. It’s also a very versatile cheese that can be grated or shaved over various dishes.

Cheese Protein (grams/serving) WW Points
Cottage Cheese 28 3
Greek Yogurt Cheese 20 4
Parmesan Cheese 22 5

Cheeses with Ample Calcium

Cheese is a versatile food that can be enjoyed in many different ways. It’s a good source of protein, calcium, and other nutrients. If you’re looking for a cheese that’s high in calcium, there are several options to choose from.

Calcium Content of Different Cheeses

The following table shows the calcium content of some popular cheeses:

Cheese Calcium (mg per ounce)
Parmesan 331
Swiss 277
Cheddar 204
Mozzarella 189
Monterey Jack 184
Cottage cheese 179

As you can see, Parmesan cheese has the highest calcium content of all the cheeses listed. It’s a hard, grating cheese that’s often used in Italian dishes. Swiss cheese is another good source of calcium. It’s a semi-hard cheese with a nutty flavor. Cheddar cheese is a popular all-purpose cheese that’s also a good source of calcium.

Cheeses with Low Carbohydrate Content

For individuals following a low-carbohydrate (low-carb) diet, selecting the right cheeses is crucial. Cheeses are typically high in fat, protein, and calcium but can vary significantly in their carbohydrate content.

Here are some of the best cheeses for low-carb diets:

Mozzarella

Mozzarella is a semi-soft cheese made from buffalo or cow’s milk. It’s an excellent choice for low-carb diets as it contains only 4.2 net carbs per 100 grams.

Cheddar

Cheddar is a hard, sharp cheese that ages for several months to years. It’s a versatile cheese suitable for various dishes and contains about 1.3 net carbs per 100 grams.

Parmesan

Parmesan is a hard, grated cheese made from cow’s milk. It’s known for its intense, nutty flavor and contains only 1.9 net carbs per 100 grams.

Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is a soft, fresh cheese made from cow’s milk. It’s a good source of protein and contains only 3.6 net carbs per 100 grams.

Additional Low-Carb Cheese Options

Here’s a table listing additional low-carb cheese options:

Cheese Net Carbs per 100 grams
Swiss 2.4
Monterey Jack 3.2
Provolone 3.9
Feta 4.1

Cheeses with High Vitamin Content

There are many nutrient-rich cheeses that can benefit Weight Watchers members. These cheeses are typically low in fat and high in vitamins, making them a great addition to a healthy diet.

Parmesan Cheese

Parmesan cheese is a hard, grating cheese with a strong flavor. It is a good source of vitamin B12, a nutrient that is essential for red blood cell production. Parmesan cheese is also a great source of calcium, phosphorus, and protein.

Cheddar Cheese

Cheddar cheese is a semi-hard cheese with a orange color and a mild flavor. It is a good source of vitamin A, which is important for vision, skin health, and immune function. Cheddar cheese is also a good source of calcium, protein, and zinc.

Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is a soft, white cheese with a mild flavor. It is a good source of vitamin B12, calcium, and protein. Cottage cheese is also low in fat and calories, making it a good choice for people who are trying to lose weight.

Brie Cheese

Brie cheese is soft, creamy cheese with a mild flavor. It is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin B2, and calcium. Brie cheese is also a good source of probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that can help to improve digestive health.

Blue Cheese

Blue cheese is a semi-hard cheese with a blue-green mold. It is a good source of vitamin K, which is important for blood clotting and bone health. Blue cheese is also a good source of calcium and protein.

Cheese Vitamin K (mcg)
Blue Cheese 30
Gouda Cheese 25
Swiss Cheese 20
Parmesan Cheese 15
Cheddar Cheese 10

Cheeses with Favorable Macronutrient Profile

Certain cheeses stand out due to their balanced macronutrient composition, making them suitable for weight watchers. These cheeses offer a blend of high protein, moderate fat, and low carbohydrate content, supporting weight management efforts.

Low-Carb Cheeses

For those looking to minimize carbohydrate intake, certain cheeses shine with their low carb counts. These include:

  • Cheddar
  • Swiss
  • Mozzarella
  • Parmesan

High-Protein Cheeses

If protein is a priority, these cheeses pack a punch:

  • Cottage cheese
  • Greek yogurt cheese
  • Feta
  • Monterey Jack

Balanced Macronutrient Ratio

For an overall balanced macronutrient profile, these cheeses strike the right balance:

  • Halloumi
  • Blue cheese
  • Gouda

Sodium Content

While most cheeses contain sodium, some have notably higher levels:

Cheese Sodium Content (mg per 1 oz serving)
Feta 300-400
Parmesan 250-350
Swiss 80-120

Those watching sodium intake should opt for cheeses with lower sodium levels, such as Swiss or mozzarella.

Cheeses with Low Calorie Count

When you’re watching your weight, it can be tough to give up cheese. But there are plenty of low-calorie cheese options that can help you stay on track and still enjoy your favorite foods.

### Parmesan Cheese

Parmesan cheese is a hard, grating cheese that is low in calories and fat. It has a strong, nutty flavor that can add a lot of flavor to your dishes without adding a lot of calories.

### Romano Cheese

Romano cheese is another hard, grating cheese that is similar to Parmesan cheese. It has a slightly milder flavor than Parmesan, but it is still a good source of calcium and protein.

### Mozzarella Cheese

Mozzarella cheese is a soft, white cheese that is used in many Italian dishes. It has a mild flavor and is a good source of calcium and protein.

### Ricotta Cheese

Ricotta cheese is a soft, white cheese that is made from whey. It has a mild flavor and is a good source of calcium and protein.

### Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is a soft, white cheese that is made from curds. It has a mild flavor and is a good source of calcium and protein.

### Swiss Cheese

Swiss cheese is a semi-hard cheese that has a nutty flavor. It is a good source of calcium and protein.

### Goat Cheese

Goat cheese is a soft cheese that is made from goat’s milk. It has a tangy flavor and is a good source of calcium and protein.

Cheese Calories per ounce
Parmesan 22

Romano 24

Mozzarella 85

Ricotta 49

Cottage Cheese 81

Swiss Cheese 106

Goat Cheese 76

Cheeses with Nutty and Zesty Flavor Profiles

Cheeses with nutty and zesty flavor profiles offer a delightful balance of richness and tang. These cheeses are often characterized by their complex flavors, ranging from sweet and buttery to sharp and piquant.

Parmigiano-Reggiano

This classic Italian cheese is known for its nutty and slightly salty flavor. It is aged for at least 12 months, developing a complex aroma and a crumbly texture. Parmigiano-Reggiano is a versatile cheese that can be used as a table cheese, grated over pasta, or added to sauces.

Asiago

Asiago cheese has a nutty and buttery flavor that becomes more intense as it ages. It is made in two varieties: a fresh, soft cheese and an aged cheese that has a firm and crystalline texture. Asiago is a great cheese for melting, as it has a smooth and creamy consistency.

Manchego

Manchego cheese is a Spanish cheese made from sheep’s milk. It has a rich and nutty flavor with a slightly tangy finish. Manchego is aged for at least 60 days, developing a firm and supple texture. It is a versatile cheese that can be enjoyed as a table cheese, melted in sandwiches, or grated over pasta.

Ossau-Iraty

Ossau-Iraty cheese is a French cheese made from sheep’s milk. It has a nutty and earthy flavor with a slightly bitter finish. Ossau-Iraty is aged for at least 100 days, developing a firm and crumbly texture. It is a great cheese for pairing with red wine.

Mimolette

Mimolette cheese is a Dutch cheese that is known for its distinctive orange rind. It has a nutty and slightly sweet flavor, with a hint of caramel. Mimolette is aged for at least 6 months, developing a firm and crumbly texture. It is a great cheese for grating or slicing.

Comte

Comte cheese is a French cheese made from cow’s milk. It has a nutty and fruity flavor, with a slightly sweet finish. Comte is aged for at least 12 months, developing a firm and supple texture. It is a versatile cheese that can be used as a table cheese, melted in sandwiches, or grated over pasta.

Gorgonzola Dolce

Gorgonzola Dolce cheese is an Italian cheese made from cow’s milk. It has a creamy and nutty flavor, with a slightly sweet finish. Gorgonzola Dolce is aged for at least 50 days, developing a soft and spreadable texture. It is a great cheese for spreading on crackers or bread.

Cheddar

Cheddar cheese is a versatile cheese that can have a wide range of flavors, from mild and buttery to sharp and tangy. It is made from cow’s milk and aged for at least 90 days. Cheddar cheese is a great cheese for melting, as it has a smooth and creamy consistency.

| Cheese Name | Flavor Profile | Texture |
|—|—|—|
| Parmigiano-Reggiano | Nutty and slightly salty | Crumbly |
| Asiago | Nutty and buttery | Soft (fresh) to firm (aged) |
| Manchego | Rich and nutty | Firm and supple |
| Ossau-Iraty | Nutty and earthy | Firm and crumbly |
| Mimolette | Nutty and slightly sweet | Firm and crumbly |
| Comte | Nutty and fruity | Firm and supple |
| Gorgonzola Dolce | Creamy and nutty | Soft and spreadable |
| Cheddar | Mild and buttery to sharp and tangy | Smooth and creamy (meltable) |

Cheeses Suitable for Lactose-Intolerant Individuals

For individuals with lactose intolerance, navigating the world of cheese can be challenging. Lactose, a sugar found in milk, can trigger digestive discomfort such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea. However, not all cheeses contain significant amounts of lactose, and some are even naturally lactose-free.

Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is a soft, fresh cheese made from cow’s milk. It is naturally low in lactose and contains about 1-2 grams per serving. Its light and creamy texture makes it versatile for both sweet and savory dishes.

Ricotta Cheese

Ricotta cheese is a soft, crumbly cheese made from whey, the liquid byproduct of cheesemaking. It is also low in lactose, containing about 3-4 grams per serving. Its mild flavor and versatile texture make it ideal for lasagna, pasta dishes, and desserts.

Swiss Cheese

Swiss cheese, known for its distinct holes, is a hard cheese made from cow’s milk. It contains moderate levels of lactose, but most of it is broken down during the aging process, reducing its digestive impact.

Parmesan Cheese

Parmesan cheese, a hard, granular cheese, is aged for at least 12 months. This extended aging process results in very low lactose content. Parmesan is a grated cheese commonly used in pasta dishes, salads, and as a topping for soups.

Cheddar Cheese

Cheddar cheese, a popular hard cheese, also undergoes a lengthy aging process that reduces its lactose content. It is suitable for most lactose-intolerant individuals, but it’s important to note that older cheddars may contain less lactose than younger ones.

Mozzarella Cheese

Mozzarella cheese, a soft, white cheese, is typically made from water buffalo milk or cow’s milk. It contains moderate levels of lactose, and some individuals with lactose intolerance may find it tolerable.

Feta Cheese

Feta cheese, a brined cheese made from sheep’s milk or goat’s milk, is naturally low in lactose. It has a salty and tangy flavor that makes it a staple in Mediterranean cuisine.

Chevre Cheese

Chevre cheese, also known as goat cheese, is a soft, creamy cheese made from goat’s milk. It is naturally low in lactose and has a delicate, slightly tangy flavor.

Lactose-Free Cheeses

For those with severe lactose intolerance, there are also lactose-free cheeses available commercially. These cheeses are made using enzymes that break down the lactose, leaving them virtually lactose-free.

Cheese Type Lactose Content (per serving)
Cottage Cheese 1-2 grams
Ricotta Cheese 3-4 grams
Swiss Cheese Low
Parmesan Cheese Very low
Cheddar Cheese Low (especially aged varieties)
Mozzarella Cheese Moderate
Feta Cheese Low
Chevre Cheese Low
Lactose-Free Cheeses Virtually lactose-free

Cheeses with Versatile Application in Culinary Preparations

There are numerous types of cheeses available, each with its unique flavor, texture, and versatility in culinary preparations. Here are some popular cheeses that offer wide-ranging applications in the kitchen:

Cheddar Cheese

A classic and versatile cheese, cheddar is known for its sharp, nutty flavor. It is a great choice for sandwiches, salads, soups, and sauces.

Mozzarella Cheese

Mozzarella is a mild, creamy cheese with a slightly stretchy texture. It is commonly used in pizzas, pasta dishes, and salads.

Parmesan Cheese

A hard, aged cheese, Parmesan has a strong, salty flavor. It is often grated over pasta dishes, soups, and salads, adding a sharp and nutty taste.

Swiss Cheese

Swiss cheese is characterized by its large, distinctive holes. It has a nutty, sweet flavor and is ideal for sandwiches, salads, and fondue.

Gouda Cheese

Gouda is a semi-hard cheese with a buttery, caramel-like flavor. It can be enjoyed on its own or used in sandwiches, salads, and soups.

Feta Cheese

Feta is a crumbly, salty cheese made from sheep or goat milk. It is a popular choice for Greek salads, pizzas, and dips.

Ricotta Cheese

Ricotta is a soft, creamy cheese with a mild flavor. It is commonly used in lasagna, ravioli, and cheesecakes.

Mascarpone Cheese

Mascarpone is a rich, creamy cheese made from cow’s milk. It is a key ingredient in tiramisu and other desserts.

Brie Cheese

Brie is a soft, creamy cheese with a bloomy rind. It has a buttery, earthy flavor and is ideal for cheeseboards and as a garnish for salads and soups.

Chevre Cheese

Chevre is a fresh, soft cheese made from goat’s milk. It has a tangy, slightly acidic flavor and is commonly used in salads, dips, and sandwiches.

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Cheese for Weight Watchers

If you’re following the Weight Watchers (WW) program, you may be wondering which cheeses are the best choices for you. While all cheeses contain some fat and calories, there are some that are lower in points than others. Here’s a guide to help you make the best choices.

Low-Point Cheeses

  • Cottage cheese (1/2 cup: 3 points)
  • Feta cheese (1 ounce: 4 points)
  • Mozzarella cheese (1 ounce: 5 points)
  • Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup grated: 5 points)
  • Swiss cheese (1 ounce: 5 points)

Moderate-Point Cheeses

  • Cheddar cheese (1 ounce: 6 points)
  • Cream cheese (2 tablespoons: 7 points)
  • Gouda cheese (1 ounce: 7 points)
  • Monterey Jack cheese (1 ounce: 7 points)
  • Provolone cheese (1 ounce: 7 points)

High-Point Cheeses

  • Blue cheese (1 ounce: 9 points)
  • Brie cheese (1 ounce: 10 points)
  • Camembert cheese (1 ounce: 11 points)
  • Gorgonzola cheese (1 ounce: 12 points)
  • Roquefort cheese (1 ounce: 14 points)

People Also Ask

What are the healthiest cheeses for WW?

The healthiest cheeses for WW are those that are low in points and high in protein, such as cottage cheese, feta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and Swiss cheese.

What is the best cheese for weight loss?

The best cheese for weight loss is one that is low in points and high in protein, such as cottage cheese, feta cheese, and mozzarella cheese.

Can I eat cheese on WW?

Yes, you can eat cheese on WW, but it is important to choose cheeses that are low in points and high in protein.