Feta is often considered healthier than cheddar because it's typically lower in calories and fat, made from sheep's or goat's milk, and offers probiotics and B vitamins, though it's higher in sodium; cheddar has more protein, calcium, Vitamin A, and zinc, but is higher in calories and fat, making both good in moderation, depending on your health goals.
While feta cheese is an excellent source of nutrients like calcium and protein, it also has high amounts of sodium and saturated fat. But feta is lower in fat than many other cheeses and is considered a reasonable option to eat in moderation.
Cardiovascular health
Saturated Fat Content: Cheddar cheese typically contains higher levels of saturated fat compared to feta cheese. A high intake of saturated fat is associated with an increased cardiovascular risk as it can raise levels of LDL cholesterol, often referred to as "bad" cholesterol (8).
The healthiest cheeses are often fresh, low-sodium options like Cottage Cheese, due to its high protein and low calories, and Mozzarella, known for being lower in sodium and fat. Other excellent choices include Ricotta, Goat Cheese, and Parmesan, offering good protein, calcium, and flavor without excessive calories, though portion control remains key for all cheeses.
Traditional Greek feta cheese is made from sheep or goat milk. Feta cheese has few calories than any other cheese, so it a good choice for weight loss. 28 grams of feta cheese contains 75 calories. However, feta cheese is high in sodium, so it is advised to drink plenty of water if you have it.
The 3-3-3 rule for weight loss is a simple, habit-based method focusing on three key areas: 3 balanced meals a day, 3 bottles (or ~1.5L) of water by 3 PM, and 3 hours of physical activity per week, aiming for consistency over complex diets. It simplifies fat loss by establishing rhythm through consistent eating, adequate hydration to support metabolism, and regular movement, promoting sustainable health without intense calorie counting or restrictive rules, says Five Diamond Fitness and Wellness, Joon Medical Wellness & Aesthetics, and EatingWell.
6 Foods and Drinks to Avoid If You Want to Lose Belly Fat
The unhealthiest cheeses are generally highly processed varieties like American cheese singles or cheese spreads (due to high sodium, additives, and lower nutrients) and very rich, creamy soft cheeses like Brie, Camembert, or triple-crèmes, which are packed with saturated fat and calories, making them best as infrequent treats, says sources 1, 5, 6. Harder cheeses like Stilton and Roquefort can also be high in saturated fat and sodium, respectively, notes sources 4, 8.
A standard 30-gram serving of feta contains around 25 milligrams of cholesterol and roughly 5 grams of fat, most of which is saturated. That's still less per gram than cheddar or brie.
Cheddar. An English semi-hard cheese, cheddar is made from cow's milk. It's rich in protein and calcium, and a good source of vitamin K2, which we need for healthy bones and teeth.
Moreover, with many Greek dishes being vegetarian and over 180 fasting days in the Greek Orthodox calendar, where the consumption of meat is prohibited, feta cheese also takes the place of meat in many vegetable-based dishes.
The minimal carbohydrates in feta ensure that it won't significantly impact blood sugar levels, providing a safe option for diabetics. Feta cheese is also a good source of calcium and phosphorus, essential for maintaining bone health.
Dietitians recommend opting for feta, gouda, goat, fresh mozzarella or any grass-fed cheese. Pair these cheeses with lifestyle habits, like exercise and sleep, to help lower inflammation.
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.
"Feta vs. Greek feta" highlights a key distinction: Greek feta is the authentic, PDO-protected cheese made in Greece from sheep's milk (or sheep/goat mix) with a distinct salty, tangy flavor and crumbly texture, while "feta" (or "fetta") sold elsewhere often uses cow's milk, resulting in milder, creamier, or different textures and flavors, but lacks the specific character of traditional Greek feta. The main difference lies in ingredients (milk type) and origin, with Greek versions being the original, regulated product.
Yes, feta cheese can be a nutritious choice when eaten in moderation. It is lower in fat and calories compared to many other cheeses and contains protein, calcium, and probiotics. However, its high sodium content means it's best enjoyed in controlled portions.
To remove cholesterol from your body, adopt a heart-healthy lifestyle by eating more soluble fiber (oats, beans, fruits) and healthy fats (olive oil, fish), exercising regularly (30 mins most days), losing excess weight, quitting smoking, and limiting alcohol, as these changes lower bad LDL cholesterol and raise good HDL cholesterol, with some people needing medication for more severe cases.
Some fish that include the most cholesterol per 100 grams are: Squid - 231mg. Shrimp - 194mg. Lobster - 71mg.
Let this list help guide your cheese choices for heart health.
There are hundreds of cheeses, including those made with cow's milk, goat's milk, and sheep's milk. Some of the healthiest cheeses include feta, parmesan, cheddar, and manchego.
Casu martzu (Sardinian: [ˈkazu ˈmaɾtsu]; lit. 'rotten cheese') is a Sardinian sheep milk cheese that contains live fly maggots.
When it comes to cheese, feta is a healthy choice. Not only is it packed with protein and fat – both essential nutrients for helping you to feel full and energised – it's also good for your gut. Probiotic yeasts in feta may lower the PH in your stomach, which is key for a healthy gut.
There's no single "#1 worst" food, but sugary drinks (soda, juices) and highly processed foods (fried items, sugary snacks, refined carbs, processed meats) are consistently top contenders for weight gain because they're loaded with empty calories, sugar, unhealthy fats, and trigger fat storage, especially visceral fat. Adding processed foods and sugary drinks to your diet quickly increases calorie intake without providing nutrients, making weight gain inevitable, say health experts.
By day 14, most people feel sharper, lighter, and more energetic than they did eating bread daily. The results are real and measurable. Weight loss of 2 to 4 kilograms, stable blood sugar, reduced bloating, and consistent energy throughout the day.
An abdominoplasty or tummy tuck procedure will often be the best method for removing a hanging belly. This is a surgical procedure performed under general anaesthetic. The procedure will remove both excess fat and skin from the abdomen creating a flatter stomach.