Even though Thanksgiving or National Gratitude Day is just around the corner, celebrants have already started preparing to cook their favorite meals. Most people consume packaged dairy products, but is it healthy?

Cheese is a big part of the Thanksgiving tradition, but according to experts, you need to know when and how to add it. While some things are better for you than others, this provides you with protein, vitamins, and good bacteria while still providing you with delicious food. According to dietitians, consumption of cheese should not be beyond the limits.

Why should you include cheese in your Thanksgiving meal?

Paneer is rich in protein and calcium and hence is an important part of your diet. However, aged cheeses help aid digestion and boost immunity. However, you have to make sure to consume full-fat dairy products, which can lead to developing type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure. Studies have shown that consuming two daily servings of any type of dairy can reduce the risk of any condition by 11-24 percent.

Research also shows that eating cheese can lead to a longer and richer life.

Some of the best things to include in your holiday spread include:

cottage cheese

Cottage cheese is a mild-tasting low-calorie cheese that is highly nutritious, which means it helps in weight loss and muscle gain.

Not only high in protein, paneer is also rich in calcium and vitamin D. According to experts, it’s an easy alternative to ricotta, making it an excellent choice for lightening lasagna or making a high-protein cheesecake.

Regular consumption of paneer helps preserve muscles, keeps you satiated throughout the day and boosts metabolism through the thermic effect of food, which is effective in weight loss. Casein protein, in particular, contains amino acids that help your appetite, energy, mood, sleep, and immune system.

Cheddar

Cheddar Cheese – Older cheddar in particular is lower in lactose, making it easier to digest than other cheeses. This is one of the best for holiday parties and platters that aim to please as many people as possible. Rich in calcium, vitamin B12, selenium, zinc, vitamin A, protein and amino acids like leucine, cottage cheese helps promote muscle growth and repair.

Incorporate aged cheddar into your broccoli casserole or use a slice to add a slice to your leftover turkey sandwich.

Parmesan

Parmesan, also known as Parmigiano-Reggiano, is a hard Italian cheese with unique nutritional properties. Even though it is considered a functional food, the components of Parmesan help improve health and reduce the risk of diseases.

It is rich in nutritional features including protein and calcium and is very easy to digest.

goat cheese

The vitamins, minerals, proteins, and heart-healthy fats present in goat cheese help improve health in many ways. It is rich in calcium, which builds and strengthens bones and even protects against cancer, diabetes and high blood pressure.

Goat cheese also contains riboflavin, also known as vitamin B2. Goat cheese is a great appetizer and an excellent complement to cranberry dishes. Versatile goat cheese can also be whipped and sweetened into a delicious dessert.

feta

Feta is a soft, white cheese made from sheep or goat milk. It is one of the oldest cheeses in the world, known for its rich aroma and slightly sour taste.

According to experts, feta cheese is an excellent source of nutrients like calcium and protein along with being high in sodium and saturated fat. However, it also has a lower fat content than many other cheeses and is considered a reasonable choice for eating in moderation.

Nutrition experts say one serving of feta provides half the daily recommended dose of phosphorus, an essential mineral for bone and teeth health.

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