Brie cheese is a French-originated cheese variety, which is soft, creamy, and nutty, in texture, produced from cow or goat milk. Brie cheese can be paired with many dishes. Its mild and tangy flavor has made it popular worldwide.
Among several varieties of cheeses, what makes Brie cheese different? Since it is a dairy product, it possesses many good sides of milk and is a good source of protein and other essential nutrients which are beneficial for your health.
Is brie cheese healthy? Let’s explore the benefits and considerations of this cheese variety, which is also popular as the “Queen of Cheeses”.
Nutritional Profile of Brie Cheese
For 100 grams of brie cheese,
| Carbohydrates | 0.50 gm |
| Fat | 27 gm |
| Calories | 335 Cal |
| Protein | 20 gm |
| Sodium | 600 mg |
| Calcium | 185 mg |
| Zinc |
| Vitamin A |
| Vitamin B12 |
| Phosphorus |
| Selenium |
Since brie cheese is low in carbohydrates, it can be included in a low-carb diet, but there is a high amount of sodium and fat in it. It must be considered while consuming brie cheese. The health benefits are:
High in Calcium and Protein
Both are essential for energy production and body development. Calcium helps in the growth and strength of bones and teeth. Protein helps in building strong muscles and supports immunity and health.
Weight Management
The fat content and protein can help in providing the feeling of fullness after a meal. This can help reduce hunger cues, and simultaneously it helps in weight management.
Nutrient Functioning
Brie cheese is a good source of vitamin A, B12, Zinc, Selenium, etc. Zinc helps in maintaining immune health. Selenium acts as an antioxidant, reducing the damage to cells. Vitamin B12 promotes the production of red blood cells and helps in maintaining bone health too.
While comparing with other varieties of cheeses, the texture of brie cheese is different. It has a creamy texture and tangy flavor. Other varieties are mostly sharp in taste. The saturated fat content is high in brie cheese when compared to other cheeses. Moreover, brie cheese can be paired with many dishes, showing its versatile nature.
High in Fat?
The saturated fat content in a 100-gram serving size of brie cheese is 27 gm. Almost all varieties of cheese contain fats, and it should be considered while consumption, otherwise it may increase the level of ‘bad’ cholesterol resulting in the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Therefore, brie cheese if not consumed in a moderate amount can result in heart disease. There is no doubt about the health benefits offered by brie cheese, but overconsumption can cause risks, hence it is recommended to consume according to individual health preferences and dietary goals.
Contributing to Bone Health
Brie cheese, being a dairy product, is rich in calcium, which is important for bone health and immunity strength. Calcium is not the only component providing support to bone health, vitamin B12, and phosphorus also contribute to the same. To absorb all those essential components and developing mineral content in bones and teeth is the main function of these nutrients.
It also helps in preventing osteoporosis if consumed properly and included with a balanced diet. Calcium also plays a vital role in providing immune strength, and muscle growth, and helps in providing vitamin D which absorbs calcium.
Presence of Protein
The protein content in brie cheese helps in muscle growth and development. In 100 grams of brie cheese, you may get 20 gms of protein. It helps you feel full after a meal and reduces the number of food intake, which can help in managing weight. There are other cheese varieties like Swiss cheese which provide more protein.
If included in a balanced diet, brie cheese can help you acquire protein content, which helps in energy production, maintaining immune strength, energy production, etc.
Lactose in Brie Cheese
If you are lactose-sensitive, then you might be thinking of not consuming brie cheese. Wait! This is for you. Brie cheese is a dairy product, and like all other dairy products, brie also provides lactose content. But, compared to other cheese varieties, brie cheese contains a smaller amount of lactose.
Fermentation makes brie cheese lose its lactose content and break down into simple sugar. Fermented dairy products are comparatively lower in lactose than fresh cheese, since it is aged. If you are lactose allergic, try consuming the cheese varieties according to individual preferences. Some people may tolerate it, but others also can consume aged cheese varieties like brie, which are low in lactose.
How to Include Brie Cheese in a Balanced Diet?
A moderate amount of any food can help you reach your dietary goals and keep a healthy body. Brie cheese is also healthy in its own way, and if included in a balanced diet, you can enjoy it in different ways.
- Eat in a moderate amount, which can help provide essential nutrients and fat along with other nutritious meals included.
- To feel satisfied after a meal, try to include whole-grain foods with it. It can also help in digestion.
- If you want a sweet and tangy combination in your meal, try to add fruits with natural sugar along with brie cheese.
- For more nutrients and vitamins, add vegetables or mix them in salads, veg mix, and other nutritious dishes.
- Though it provides protein and essential nutrients, trying a moderate quantity by pairing it with lean protein, veggies, whole grains, fruits, etc. can bring in a complete diet pattern.
Downsides of Brie Cheese—High in Sodium
The high amount of sodium in brie can lead to a high risk of heart disease. Always choose a less sodium variety of cheese or brie cheese, which can help you reduce the amount of sodium intake.
Risky for Pregnant Women
A kind of harmful bacteria in brie can be risky for pregnant women. Go for pasteurized cheese to prevent such bacterial infections. Otherwise, you can also choose a pasteurized version of brie cheese.
Conclusion
Whatever the pattern of your diet, make sure you eat all those essential nutrients and minerals through your meals. Brie cheese can be one ingredient in that, which can help attain your dietary goals if consumed in the right way. Know your body, your health, and taste preferences before consuming brie cheese. If consumed properly, it may offer several benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I eat Brie cheese daily?
A moderate quantity of brie cheese can be consumed every day, depending on your health preferences.
2. How can I include Brie cheese in my diet if I have lactose intolerance?
Fermentation helps in reducing the overall lactose content in brie cheese. Hence, it can be consumed according to your health preferences.
3. Is brie cheese healthy?
Brie cheese is healthy if consumed moderately. You can include it with other nutritious meals to enjoy it with all the benefits.