Love to eat cheese? Dr Pal breaks down the truth you should know before your next bite

If you’re someone who can’t resist cheese, you’re not alone. From gooey mozzarella on pizza to tangy feta in salads, cheese is one of the most loved foods around the world. But while it’s delicious, it isn’t just about taste—cheese packs a punch of calories, fat, and sodium, and its health effects depend on the type and quantity you eat. Harvard-trained Dr. Pal breaks down what makes cheese good or bad for your body, and how to enjoy it without overdoing it.

What does Dr Pal say about cheese?

- According to Dr Pal, cheese can actually support gut health when eaten in moderation, especially fermented varieties that may contain probiotics.

- These probiotics can help digestion and even reduce lactose, making some cheeses suitable for lactose-intolerant people.


- Low-calorie options like feta or mozzarella are ideal for salads, while high-sodium varieties like parmesan or edam should be consumed carefully if you have hypertension.

- It’s best to avoid ultra-processed cheese powders, slices, sauces, and spreads, which often contain additives and stabilizers.

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Cheese’s impact on health

Cheese is one of the most versatile foods in the world, with thousands of varieties ranging from mild to mature in flavor and low- to high-fat in composition, according to Medical News Today. It can be made from the milk of cows, sheep, goats, and other animals. Popular types include cheddar, mozzarella, blue cheese, feta, camembert, cream cheese, brie, gouda, edam, goat cheese, fresh cheese, cottage cheese, ricotta, Monterey jack, and Gruyere.

Cheese is a rich source of calcium, which is essential for healthy bones and teeth, proper blood clotting, and maintaining normal blood pressure. While cheeses like mozzarella and ricotta are relatively low in fat and calories, cheddar is higher in fat, calories, and sodium but also offers significant vitamin content.


According to Healthline, cheese contains several important nutrients but comes with some caveats. It is high in calories, averaging about 100 calories per ounce depending on the type. It also contains high amounts of saturated fat, which some experts recommend moderating, and is usually loaded with sodium, a concern for people with high blood pressure. Additionally, cheese is low in fiber, and consuming very high amounts of dairy may contribute to constipation.