We all love cheese, but there are lots of cheese products that have too much fat, sodium or other unhealthy ingredients. Plenty of reduced-fat cheeses are available, but many of them contain chemical additives that make them taste artificial—kind of like plastic. Fortunately, you can find delicious options made with low-fat milk—if you know what to look for.

My advice (recommendations are based on a one-ounce serving)…

  • Limit the fat content. Don’t exceed 5 g of total fat.
  • Get enough calcium. Aim for at least 20% of the daily value (DV)—the percentage of a nutrient that you need to consume each day (based on a 2,000-calorie diet).
  • Watch out for sodium. Stick to 250 mg or less per serving.
  • Keep an eye on calories. Look for no more than 80 calories per serving.
  • My top picks…

    CABOT
    50% Reduced Fat Cheddar
    One ounce (one-inch cube*): 4.5 g total fat… 3 g saturated fat… 0 g trans fat… 8 g protein… 170 mg sodium… 20% DV calcium… 70 calories.

    FINLANDIA
    Imported Light Swiss Deli Slices
    One slice (about ¾ ounce): 3 g total fat… 2 g saturated fat… 0 g trans fat… 7 g protein… 110 mg sodium… 22% DV calcium… 57 calories.

    THE LAUGHING COW
    Mini Babybel Light
    One round piece (about ¾ ounce): 3 g total fat… 1.5 g saturated fat… 0 g trans fat… 6 g protein… 160 mg sodium… 20% DV calcium… 50 calories.

    *Nutritional breakdowns are based on serving sizes that vary slightly, depending on the form of the cheese—sliced, cubed or individually wrapped.

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