Cheese is one of the most liked types of dairy product and a rich source of Calcium and other minerals. A diabetic person can eat cheese depending on the type and cheese. Some types of cheese are high in saturated fats, which can create problems in the long run.
The cheese itself is not restricted to diabetic patients. Still, it is often used in fast food items rich in carbohydrates and is notorious for raising blood glucose instantly. Patients should remember the key to moderation and calorie control.
Does Cheese Raise Your Blood Glucose level?
Cheese does contain carbohydrates but in minimal amounts. There is only 1 gram of carbohydrates in one serving of cheese. The low-carb food releases insulin at a low speed, which will not raise your blood glucose level, which is why it is safe to
consume cheese for a diabetic patient.
Calories from Cheese
On average, one cubic inch of cheese contains about 68 Kcal. Various types of cheese contain different amounts of calories. Some of them contain fewer calories than others. Some energy-dense types include double Gloucester, cottage, fontina, swiss cheese, etc. Some low-calorie types are parmesan, mozzarella camembert, etc.
Nutrients and Minerals in Cheese
| Names | Effect on Glucose level |
| Calcium | Cheese enhances glucose’s metabolic activity. |
Sodium | Cheese doesn’t have any effect on your glucose level. |
Protein | Stabilizes the blood glucose level and absorbs sugar. |
| Vitamin B-12 | It helps to improve glucose levels. |
| Vitamin A | It improves hyperglycemic conditions and regulates glucose tolerance. |
| Riboflavin | Absorbs the glucose from the intestine. |
| Zinc | It also improves glucose levels in the blood. |
| Phosphorus | It helps to repair glucose tolerance. |
What type of cheese should be preferred?
A diabetic person can eat all types of cheese. Since cheese has a low glycemic index, it does not cause spikes in blood glucose levels. Among all types, cheese that is low in fat is the best. Some of the low-fat cheese types are
- Mozzarella cheese
- Ricotta cheese
- Cottage cheese
- Romano cheese,
- Feta cheese.
What type of cheese should be avoided?
There are more than two hundred types of cheese, and not all of them are good for your health. Many are unpasteurized and made under little or no quality control methods. A large amount of saturated and Trans fats can be present in them that are not aligned with WHO recommendations of daily requirements.
According to ACC and AHA, a person should not have more than 130 calories of saturated fat daily. One oz. of blue cheese contains 8 grams of saturated fat, equivalent to 72 calories. Some other types of cheese that diabetic patients should avoid the
- Roquefort cheese
- Halloumi cheese
- Parmesan cheese
- Cheddar cheese,
- Cream cheese.
Glycemic Index of Cheese:
Cheese is one of the lowest glycemic index foods. Its glycemic index is so low that it is even hard for scientists to quantify Grams of carbohydrates in cheese are insufficient to raise a person’s blood glucose. Thus you can easily add cheese to a diabetic person’s diet plan.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Will cheese Affect Blood Sugar levels?
No. Cheese does not instantly `raise your blood sugar levels as it is considered a low glycemic index food.
Can Diabetics eat Pizza?
People with diabetes should avoid Pizza as its dough contains a lot of sugars
that can spike up their blood sugar levels.
Can Diabetics eat cheese pasta?
Having a small portion is ok, but eating a large amount of cheese pasta is not recommended. Whole-grain pasta is preferred over white pasta as it contains more sugar.
Can Diabetics eat cheese Freely?
It would help if you did not eat cheese beyond the acceptable amount. Eating cheese in moderation is not harmful, but binge eating can create cardiovascular problems.
Final Words
A person with diabetes can eat cheese, but moderation should be kept in mind. A few types of cheese are restricted to them as they do not meet good quality criteria. A little bit of research can leads you toward the suitable types that are good and beneficial for your health. While planning a menu for a diabetic patient, cheese
should be considered an excellent addition to their diet. A dietitian or the. The Caretaker should note any cheese’s sodium and fat content before adding it to a diabetic person’s meal plan.
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