Is Cottage Cheese Good for Weight Loss? Benefits and Types

Cottage cheese is one of the most popular dairy products in America. It’s a staple in many people’s diets because it’s low in fat, high in protein and other nutrients, and very affordable.

But cottage cheese isn’t just for people trying to lose weight or maintain their weight — anyone who wants to add more protein to their diet can use it as well.

The Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2010 recommend serving 3 cups of dairy products or fortified soy products, to adults who consume 1,600 to 3,200 calories daily.

So how does this dairy food help with weight loss? We will discuss this and more.

What is Cottage Cheese?

Cottage cheese is a soft, unripened cheese made by adding a bacterial culture to warmed milk. The bacteria convert the lactose into lactic acid, giving the cheese its characteristic sour taste.

It is made from the curds of cow’s milk. The curds are strained in a cheesecloth and then packed into molds. Some cottage cheeses are made with whole milk, while others are made with skimmed or low-fat milk.

Cottage cheese comes in various types, including buttermilk, low-fat, and non-fat varieties. Some brands also offer flavored options such as strawberry, blueberry, or plain. All types are generally packaged in 8-ounce containers or larger tubs with resealable lids.

However, adding flavors can change the nutrients you get from the plain variety (including added sugars).

Cottage cheese has a mild flavor, which goes well with many other foods. It can be mixed with berries such as strawberries or blueberries, nuts like walnuts or almonds, savory ingredients like tomatoes and basil leaves, or even be combined with ricotta cheese to make a healthier lasagna for a gourmet twist on this classic dish.

Does Cottage Cheese Cause Constipation?

Cottage cheese in large quantities can constipate you. Researchers have found that excess dairy consumption can cause constipation so if you overeat dairy foods, high in fat content, and your diet is not balanced, then the probabilities of getting constipation are high.

However, if your diet has a moderate consumption of cottage cheese and you eat fiber-rich foods such as vegetables, fruits, and whole grains, then you’re not likely to get constipated. The recommended daily intake (RDI) of fiber is 25g – 38g depending on your age and sex.

Also, keep yourself fully hydrated, as dehydration promotes constipation. Drinking enough water will help ease constipation, bloating, and other digestive issues.

4 Amazing Benefits of Cottage Cheese for Weight Loss

Cottage cheese is a good source of protein, calcium, and other nutrients. Here are some of its benefits for weight loss:

#1 Good source of protein

Cottage cheese contains about 11 grams of protein per cup (100 grams), making it one of the best protein sources. Protein helps build and repair muscles, which helps you burn more calories during exercise.

Cottage cheese also contains casein, another type of protein found in dairy foods like milk, curds, and cheese. Casein protein has been shown to suppress appetite for up to four hours after consumption.

#2 Inexpensive and convenient

Cottage cheese costs less than $3 per serving (4 ounces), making it one of the cheapest dairy products. It’s also a convenient diet.

To enhance its flavor, you can eat it plain or add seasonings such as herbs, spices, or garlic salt. Add fruit to make it sweeter, or sprinkle on nuts for crunchiness and extra fiber.

#3 Source of calcium

Cottage cheese is an excellent source of calcium, which helps maintain strong bones and teeth. The calcium content can also help prevent constipation and other gastrointestinal problems.

Maintaining strong, healthy bones is crucial to follow a consistent and long-term workout program.

#4 Aids in digestion

Cultured cottage cheese is a rich source of probiotics. It can help improve digestion by producing good bacteria. It also contains many active cultures, such as L. acidophilus and B. bifidum, suitable for gut health and the digestive tract.

Which Cottage Cheese is Best for Weight Loss?

It’s important to note that not all cottage cheeses are created equal. Some have better health benefits than others, and some may be more helpful for your weight-loss goals than others.

Here are a few things to look for:

#1 Low-fat cottage cheese

The best type of cottage cheese that has impacted weight-loss diets is low-fat options that have less than 2 grams of fat per serving. This will still provide you with plenty of protein without adding too many extra calories to your diet.

#2 Nonfat cottage cheese

This type of cottage cheese is free from fat, making it an ideal dairy food for people watching their weight or trying to lose weight. It contains about 20 percent fewer calories than regular cottage cheese. It’s also lower in saturated fat and cholesterol, which makes it better for your heart health and your waistline.

#3 Cottage cheese without additives

Some brands contain added ingredients like whey protein concentrates, carrageenan, or modified food starch to improve texture and consistency. Others have herbs or other flavorings added during processing for taste appeal. These ingredients aren’t harmful, but they ‌add calories that may not be necessary when you’re trying to lose weight.

FAQs

Conclusion

Cottage cheese is a low-fat, low-calorie, creamy, and soft cheese that has been consumed since ancient times. It’s high in protein and minerals and low in fat.

Depending on the type of cottage cheese you use, you can add it to your salads, for example, chicken salad, main dishes, desserts, or use it as a spread or snack.

Eating cottage cheese without sufficient fiber, fresh fruits and vegetables, and fluids can contribute to constipation. Ensure you add fiber and fruits to your diet and drink a lot of fluids to avoid constipation.

And if you’re a lover of dairy products and are looking for the best options to lose weight, consider adding cottage cheese to your diet for the best results.