Is String Cheese Healthy? Here’s How To Choose One To Keep Your Cholesterol Levels in Check

When it comes to snacking, few foods can compare to string cheese. Its convenient packaging and its mild, creamy flavour make it a favourite among both kids and adults. But while it’s certainly a tasty treat, is string cheese really a healthy choice?

In this post, we’ll answer this question by taking a look at the nutritional value of string cheese and giving you our top picks for the healthiest cheeses to add to your diet. We’ll consider things like ingredients, flavour and cholesterol levels, so you can make an informed decision about which cheese to choose for your next snack.

The Basics of String Cheese

String cheese is a type of cheese that comes off in long, thin strings. These strings are made by stretching and tearing curdled milk at a heated temperature until it forms a fibrous web. String cheese is now available in many different flavours, such as cheddar or even jalapeno! 

Most string cheese is sold as individual snack-size servings, making it an easy grab-and-go option. It’s also low-calorie and high-protein — each one-ounce serving typically contains somewhere around 8 grams of protein and 80 calories. 

Understanding Cholesterol

When considering whether string cheese is a healthy snack option, it’s important to understand the role cholesterol plays in your body. Cholesterol is a type of fat found in your blood via the liver or from your food. 

While some cholesterol is essential for healthy cells and hormone production, too much can increase your risk of heart disease. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol is considered “bad” because it can raise your risk of heart attack or stroke if levels get too high, while high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol is considered “good” because it helps carry LDL out of your arteries and back to your liver for processing. 

Low Cholesterol String Cheese Options 

When choosing the healthiest string cheeses for your diet, look for those that are free of trans fats and saturated fats, which can raise your LDL levels. Some low-cholesterol varieties include reduced-fat mozzarella sticks, nonfat plain string cheeses and light string cheeses with 2% fat or less. If you’re concerned about sodium content, opt for brands that contain less than 140mg per serving (many brands may offer low-sodium options). 

Comparing String Cheese Varieties 

When comparing different types of string cheese, it’s important to consider not just the cholesterol content but also other nutritional components such as protein, carbohydrates, fat and sodium content. For example, reduced-fat cheddar string cheeses tend to contain more sodium than regular cheddar cheese varieties. However, they still provide some essential nutrients like vitamins B12 and D as well as calcium. 

Making String Cheese Part of Your Diet 

String cheese doesn’t have to be an unhealthy part of your diet — in fact, adding it as a snack can actually help you reach your recommended daily intake of several key nutrients. To make sure you don’t overdo it on the calories or sodium content, limit yourself to the recommended servings per day and pair them with a piece of fruit or a veggie side dish to round it out a balanced snack. 

Eating a variety of low-cholesterol foods throughout the day will help keep your LDL levels in check while still giving you the energy boost you need to power through your day. 

Conclusion

When it comes to snacking, string cheese is a popular choice for many people. With its great taste and convenient packaging, string cheese is a tasty snack you can take just about  anywhere. But is it a healthy choice? If you’re watching your cholesterol, the answer is yes, as long as you choose the right type of cheese and keep your portions in check. By understanding the basics of string cheese and cholesterol you can make sure you’re getting the most out of your snack without sacrificing good health