Gut Health Fermented foods like feta cheese contain probiotics. These strains of good bacteria promote a healthy gut and support immune system function.
May support gut health
Feta cheese contains beneficial microbes including yeasts and bacteria, such as Lactobacillus plantarum, which may help support gut health.
Typically, probiotics are in cheeses that have been aged but not heated afterward. This includes both soft and hard cheeses, including Swiss, provolone, Gouda, cheddar, Edam, Gruyère, and cottage cheese.
Many soft and hard cheeses, including Swiss, Provolone, Gouda, cheddar, Edam, Gruyère, feta, caciocavallo, Emmental, and Parmesan are likely to provide at least some probiotics, but note that statements about “live and active cultures” are unlikely to be found on aged cheeses.
Why it's good for you: Cheese lovers, rejoice: cottage cheese is a great pick for your gut. As with other fermented foods, cottage cheese often delivers probiotics (check the package labels for live and active cultures), and it's high in calcium, which is important for strong bones.
May support gut health
Greek yogurt that is labelled 'contains live cultures', provides beneficial bacteria known as probiotics, which when eaten regularly may support gut health. This is because regular inclusion of fermented foods, including yogurt, appears to increase the microbial diversity of the gut.
Since feta cheese contains a high amount of sodium, it is essential to consume it in moderation. Excess sodium intake can lead to high blood pressure and kidney-related issues. Furthermore, feta cheese's high calorie and fat content can also lead to weight gain if you consume it in excess.
Feta cheese contains vitamins B6 (5% daily value), and cobalamin (vitamin B12) (8% daily value). It also contains vitamin D that helps the body absorb calcium and strengthens the bones. Vitamin B6 facilitates metabolism, and cobalamin keeps the nervous system healthy (4), (11), (12), (13).
Kefir contains more probiotics than any yogurt. With up to 61 different strains of microbes, it can be an excellent source of probiotics. People use specific clusters of microbes called kefir grains to ferment the milk.
Cheddar, feta and Gouda are common probiotic cheeses as are provolone, Edam, brick, caciocavallo, Emmental and Gruyere.
Mainly made from sheep or goat milk (often combined), Feta cheese is a nutrient-rich option and a deliciously flavoured dairy. Feta is easier to digest and much less allergenic and inflammatory than cheeses made from cow's milk, which makes it a better option for those who may be sensitive to dairy products.
The typical process of Feta cheese is produced using lactic acid bacteria (LAB). The LAB in Feta cheese is typically elevated with increasing the acidity at the beginning of the ripening when it is stored at 5–7°C and then the count of LAB becomes constant up to 60 days (Bintsis & Robinson, 2004).
For example, choose low-fat cottage cheese, mozzarella cheese, or feta in place of higher-fat cheddar cheese or cream cheese. Many dairy products contain vitamin D, a major nutrient that can aid in cleansing the liver.
Scientists finally discover what makes Feta the healthiest cheese in the world. According to dieticians and doctors around the globe, Feta is the healthiest cheese option in the world and now there is clear evidence to prove it.
Cheese is a great source of protein and calcium but is often high in saturated fat and salt. This means eating too much could lead to high cholesterol and high blood pressure, increasing your risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD).
Halloumi, like other dairy foods, is rich in calcium, a mineral we need for muscle and nerve function as well as strong healthy bones and teeth. A portion (80g) supplies a significant contribution towards your daily calcium needs, something which is of important for all life-stages.
Aged cheeses such as Parmesan, Cheddar, Gorgonzola, Brie and feta are rich in tyramine. Foods containing high levels of tyramine can cause blood pressure to dramatically increase, so it's best to avoid if you're hoping to drift off peacefully.
Australian yogurt, though, has a longer culture and cooking process, which gives it a much thicker, creamier consistency compared to regular yogurt (via Wallaby).
If you are looking to boost your protein intake or prefer a thicker yogurt, Greek yogurt is a great option, however, regular yogurt is equally as nutrient-dense and rich in probiotics.
The Aldi yoghurt also contained probiotic ingredients, and had no added sugar and zero per cent fat.