It's well known that when it comes to dieting, cheese is always seen as something to avoid: high in fat, with a high calorie intake, and often a cause of increased cholesterol, which is certainly not good for the body. But is this always the case? What if the cheese in question is Parmigiano Reggiano? Is it advised against like many other cheeses, or does it have characteristics that make it suitable even for those on a low-calorie diet or trying to eat healthily? Here's the answer.
Parmigiano Reggiano in a diet: yes or no?
We have already discussed the high nutritional value of Parmesan: it is a food rich in protein and minerals, especially calcium, phosphorus, and sodium, and has properties useful for the proper functioning of our body. But there's more. Parmigiano Reggiano is listed among semi-fat cheeses: it contains less than 29 grams of fat in a 100g portion of cheese. This makes it a leaner food compared to gorgonzola, caciocavallo, provolone, fontina, brie, and even most spreadable cheeses.
Consequently, in the right quantities, Parmesan is a cheese suitable for inclusion in various types of diets. It is also a food that generates a significant feeling of satiety, and can therefore help if you are following a low-carb diet.
Furthermore, the advantage of Parmigiano Reggiano lies in the type of fats it contains. These are mostly short and medium-chain fatty acids, which specialists often refer to as "special fats": they can be absorbed more easily by our body, and provide direct energy for the liver and muscles. For this reason, Parmesan is always recommended in athletes' diets, who need easily consumable energy.
In addition, Parmigiano Reggiano is a cheese that is easy to digest, rich in calcium and magnesium, and consequently proves to be a great ally for the bodies of children, the elderly, athletes, and anyone who consumes the right portion: for this reason, it is recommended by many specialists in their diets. The important thing is to respect the recommended daily amount: despite its high nutritional values and low fat content, Parmigiano Reggiano still provides a high number of calories, and therefore its consumption is recommended no more than twice a week, in portions not exceeding 50 grams.
