Believe it or not, many kinds of cheese pack a powerful protein punch.

Trista Best, MPH, RD, LD, is a registered dietitian at Balance One Supplements.

Megan Hilbert, MS, RDN, is a registered dietitian and nutritionist at Top Nutrition Coaching.

Different types of high-protein cheeses on a table

Photo: Getty Images

This cheese provides 21 percent of the daily recommended intake."

Mozzarella, Salami, and Olive Salad

Need a vehicle for your mozzarella?

In addition to protein, this cheese provides the consumer with beneficial probiotics," Best explains.

Cacio e Pepe with Romano Cheese in a Brown Plate with Metal Fork

Vladislav Chusov/Getty Images

“These naturally occurring bacteria improve gut health [and] digestion, and contribute to overall health.”

This nutrient helps with energy, nerve cell health, and mood."

Parmigiano Reggiano Scrambled

Parmesan cheese goes with just aboutanything.

Mozzarella, Salami, and Green Olive Salad on a White Plate

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However, there is more to Swiss cheese than how it looks.

“This nutrient makeup makes Swiss cheese one of the healthier cheeses available.”

Not a fan of low-fat cheese?

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The same size serving of full-fat Swiss cheese has 27 grams of protein.

It’s a quick lunch or dinner option and a great way to boost your protein intake.

Edam

“Edam is a mild-flavored cheese that contains 7 grams of protein for a 1-ounce serving.

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it can be served as a dip or a main, making for endless possibilities to indulge.

It’s the perfect light meal for lunch or an appetizer before dinner.

“Feta’s also a great source of riboflavin and a decent source of phosphorus and selenium.

Scrambled Eggs With Parmesan Cheese

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Some feta cheeses also contain live probiotics like lactobacillus.

This particular bacteria has been linked with promoting gut health.”

Savory Baked Feta

A block of creamy feta takes center stage in this easy and colorful appetizer.

Crunchy Baked Chicken With Ham and Swiss in White Baking Dish

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Because of this, protein is an essential part of our diet and vital for life.

2013;2013:481651. doi:10.5402/2013/481651

National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements,Vitamin B12.

Accessed December 11, 2022.

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National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements,Vitamin A and Carotenoids.

Wu G.Dietary protein intake and human health.Food Funct.

2016;7(3):1251-1265. doi:10.1039/c5fo01530h

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