Anna Hartz
Is Cottage Cheese Actually Good for You? Here’s What Experts Say
Walk into any grocery store today and you’ll probably find a packed shelf of cottage cheese.
It has become a unexpected star on social media and in everyday diets. Some mix it into smoothies.
Others eat it straight with fruit. It’s no longer just for fitness fans or your grandma’s fridge.
But is it actually good for you? And should you eat it every day?
Nutrition experts say yes — for the most part, writes Ziare.
One of the biggest benefits of cottage cheese is its protein. Just one cup gives you about 24 grams. That’s a lot.
Protein helps your body keep muscle. It can also help you feel full longer and manage weight.
Some people, like nutritionist Elana Natker, eat it almost every day. She doesn’t eat much meat, so she relies on cottage cheese as a complete protein with low fat.
Good for the Bones
Cottage cheese also supports your bones. It contains calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin B12.
These nutrients work together to keep your bones strong. They also help with energy and important processes in your body.
One large review even found that people who ate cheese daily had fewer bone fractures. The exact amount varied, but the trend was clear — dairy helps.
It may also help balance your blood sugar. Protein slows digestion. That helps keep sugar levels more steady, especially compared to processed carbs.
One study found it also activates certain hormones that help regulate blood sugar and insulin.
Some types of cottage cheese even support your gut. A few brands include probiotics, like Lactobacillus.
These are the same helpful bacteria found in yogurt. But not all cottage cheese has them. Check the label.
There are many ways to enjoy it. Eat it with fruit. Spread it on toast. Blend it into a smoothie. Use it in a dip. It’s versatile, affordable, and easy to pair with healthy foods.
Just watch the salt. Cottage cheese can be high in sodium, so portion control matters. Still, if you enjoy the taste, it’s a smart choice to keep around.