Cream cheese is a popular spread used on many foods such as bagels, toast, and sandwiches. It gives food a creamy texture and a mild flavor that many people love. But is cream cheese healthy?
Cream cheese is made from pasteurized cow’s milk and cream that has been cultured with bacteria, allowing it to thicken and take on its characteristic flavor. While it does contain some beneficial vitamins and minerals like calcium, phosphorus, riboflavin, and vitamin A, cream cheese is relatively high in saturated fat and sodium compared to other dairy products.
However, you can still enjoy cream cheese in moderation while eating a healthy diet. Low-fat versions are available which are lower in fat and calories than regular cream cheese.
Light cream cheese is made with skim milk instead of whole milk, reducing the amount of fat even further. Reduced-fat versions are also available which contain fewer calories than regular cream cheese but more than light versions.
Whipped cream cheese is another option that contains less fat than regular cream cheese, but it also has less flavor. Cream cheese spreads are available in many different flavors such as garlic herb or spinach artichoke which can add more flavor to your food without adding extra calories.
In addition to low-fat options for cream cheese, there are also non-dairy alternatives made from nuts such as cashew or almond butter. These vegan alternatives are usually lower in fat and calories than their dairy counterparts but may have added sugars or other ingredients to give them the same texture and taste as traditional cream cheeses.
Conclusion: Cream cheese can be included in a healthy diet if eaten in moderation and choosing low-fat options or non-dairy alternatives when possible. Eating a variety of foods from all food groups will ensure you get all the nutrients your body needs for optimal health.