Latest news with #KristinaCooke
Yahoo
03-08-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
The problems that happen when you eat too much pineapple
Whether served on a fruit platter, grilled with shrimp skewers, tossed over a salad, crushed into salsa, swirled into a smoothie or (contentiously!) topped on pizza, pineapple has become one of the world's most beloved fruits. Its vibrant appearance adds tropical flair to any plate and its sweet, tangy flavor also has a sharp, acidic bite that 'makes it a staple in both desserts and savory dishes,' says Kristina Cooke, a licensed nutritionist specializing in diabetes treatment and prevention. And unlike many fruits with short growing seasons, pineapple also has the advantage of being available year-round as a fresh fruit or in canned rings or chunks, "making it one of the most accessible tropical fruits in grocery stores,' says Shelley Rael, a registered dietitian and nutritionist based in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Here's why that's generally a good thing, and why it's still important to consume the fruit (and its juice) in moderation. Is pineapple good for you? No matter where you get your pineapple from, it's a fruit rich in essential nutrients that support immunity, digestion, bone strength and more. One standout nutrient is vitamin C, since "a single cup of fresh pineapple provides over 100% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C for adults,' says Caroline Susie, a registered dietitian and national spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. She explains that vitamin C strengthens the immune system, promotes collagen production for healthy skin and joints and neutralizes free radicals that contribute to premature aging and cellular damage. Pineapple also happens to be one of the richest dietary sources of manganese, with one cup delivering about 75% of your daily needs. Manganese is a mineral that supports bone formation and provides energy. The fruit also contains plenty of fiber, 'which is satiating and can aid in maintaining a healthy weight,' says Cooke. Fiber also supports digestion, helps regulate blood sugar levels 'and supports a healthy gut microbiome,' adds Susie. Another perk of pineapple is that it's rich in bromelain, "an enzyme known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties,' says Susie. Indeed, bromelain helps break down proteins and food go down easier. Some research suggests it reduces swelling and supports recovery after surgery or intense exercise. And the fruit contains a modest amount of vitamin B6 to boot, which plays a role in brain development, mood regulation, energy metabolism and hormone balance. What are trace minerals? And how to know if you're getting enough of them. Is pineapple juice good for you? Pineapple juice, made by crushing or pressing the fruit, retains many of the same vitamins and minerals of the whole version of the fruit, but it does lose a lot of its fiber in the production process, explains Rael. Since fiber helps slow sugar absorption and supports gut health, its absence makes pineapple juice a less-balanced option than whole fruit. This also means that pineapple juice has a higher concentration of sugar. 'It takes more than one cup of pineapple to make a single serving of juice,' explains Rael. Pasteurized pineapple juice also tends to have fewer nutrients than its raw counterpart as heat processing can degrade sensitive compounds like vitamin C and bromelain. Some commercial varieties of pineapple juice may also include added sugars or preservatives, further diminishing nutritional value. Understood: Too many added sugars in your diet can be dangerous. This should be your daily limit. Is it OK to eat pineapple every day? Despite the many benefits associated with pineapple, it's best to enjoy it moderation. One reason for this is that the fruit contains lots of natural sugar and, while significantly better than added sugars, can still contribute to tooth decay, weight gain or blood sugar fluctuations in some individuals. 'Those with diabetes should especially take caution in the quantity of pineapple eaten due to its sugar and carbohydrate content," says Cooke. "It's best to pair it with a source of protein and fat to help improve blood sugar regulation." Overdoing it on pineapple can also lead to digestive issues. While fiber and bromelain support digestion in moderation, too much of either can cause bloating or cramping. And some people experience a tingling or burning sensation on their tongue after eating large amounts of fresh pineapple, adds Susie, which is bromelain breaking down specific proteins in the mucous membranes. People with certain conditions, such as acid reflux, IBS or sensitivity to acidic foods, may also want to limit pineapple intake 'due to the fruit's higher acid content,' says Cooke. And because pineapple can interact with medications such as blood thinners and certain antibiotics, 'it's a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider if you're on any prescription drugs before you eat too much of it,' advises Susie. So long as such considerations are kept in mind, she adds "pineapple is a delicious way to satisfy a sweet craving while still nourishing your body." This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Is pineapple good for you? The benefits (and risks) of eating it
Yahoo
03-08-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
The problems that happen when you eat too much pineapple
Whether served on a fruit platter, grilled with shrimp skewers, tossed over a salad, crushed into salsa, swirled into a smoothie or (contentiously!) topped on pizza, pineapple has become one of the world's most beloved fruits. Its vibrant appearance adds tropical flair to any plate and its sweet, tangy flavor also has a sharp, acidic bite that 'makes it a staple in both desserts and savory dishes,' says Kristina Cooke, a licensed nutritionist specializing in diabetes treatment and prevention. And unlike many fruits with short growing seasons, pineapple also has the advantage of being available year-round as a fresh fruit or in canned rings or chunks, "making it one of the most accessible tropical fruits in grocery stores,' says Shelley Rael, a registered dietitian and nutritionist based in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Here's why that's generally a good thing, and why it's still important to consume the fruit (and its juice) in moderation. Is pineapple good for you? No matter where you get your pineapple from, it's a fruit rich in essential nutrients that support immunity, digestion, bone strength and more. One standout nutrient is vitamin C, since "a single cup of fresh pineapple provides over 100% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C for adults,' says Caroline Susie, a registered dietitian and national spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. She explains that vitamin C strengthens the immune system, promotes collagen production for healthy skin and joints and neutralizes free radicals that contribute to premature aging and cellular damage. Pineapple also happens to be one of the richest dietary sources of manganese, with one cup delivering about 75% of your daily needs. Manganese is a mineral that supports bone formation and provides energy. The fruit also contains plenty of fiber, 'which is satiating and can aid in maintaining a healthy weight,' says Cooke. Fiber also supports digestion, helps regulate blood sugar levels 'and supports a healthy gut microbiome,' adds Susie. Another perk of pineapple is that it's rich in bromelain, "an enzyme known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties,' says Susie. Indeed, bromelain helps break down proteins and food go down easier. Some research suggests it reduces swelling and supports recovery after surgery or intense exercise. And the fruit contains a modest amount of vitamin B6 to boot, which plays a role in brain development, mood regulation, energy metabolism and hormone balance. What are trace minerals? And how to know if you're getting enough of them. Is pineapple juice good for you? Pineapple juice, made by crushing or pressing the fruit, retains many of the same vitamins and minerals of the whole version of the fruit, but it does lose a lot of its fiber in the production process, explains Rael. Since fiber helps slow sugar absorption and supports gut health, its absence makes pineapple juice a less-balanced option than whole fruit. This also means that pineapple juice has a higher concentration of sugar. 'It takes more than one cup of pineapple to make a single serving of juice,' explains Rael. Pasteurized pineapple juice also tends to have fewer nutrients than its raw counterpart as heat processing can degrade sensitive compounds like vitamin C and bromelain. Some commercial varieties of pineapple juice may also include added sugars or preservatives, further diminishing nutritional value. Understood: Too many added sugars in your diet can be dangerous. This should be your daily limit. Is it OK to eat pineapple every day? Despite the many benefits associated with pineapple, it's best to enjoy it moderation. One reason for this is that the fruit contains lots of natural sugar and, while significantly better than added sugars, can still contribute to tooth decay, weight gain or blood sugar fluctuations in some individuals. 'Those with diabetes should especially take caution in the quantity of pineapple eaten due to its sugar and carbohydrate content," says Cooke. "It's best to pair it with a source of protein and fat to help improve blood sugar regulation." Overdoing it on pineapple can also lead to digestive issues. While fiber and bromelain support digestion in moderation, too much of either can cause bloating or cramping. And some people experience a tingling or burning sensation on their tongue after eating large amounts of fresh pineapple, adds Susie, which is bromelain breaking down specific proteins in the mucous membranes. People with certain conditions, such as acid reflux, IBS or sensitivity to acidic foods, may also want to limit pineapple intake 'due to the fruit's higher acid content,' says Cooke. And because pineapple can interact with medications such as blood thinners and certain antibiotics, 'it's a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider if you're on any prescription drugs before you eat too much of it,' advises Susie. So long as such considerations are kept in mind, she adds "pineapple is a delicious way to satisfy a sweet craving while still nourishing your body." This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Is pineapple good for you? The benefits (and risks) of eating it
Hindustan Times
02-08-2025
- Politics
- Hindustan Times
The US said it had no choice but to deport them to a third country. Then it sent them home
* The US said it had no choice but to deport them to a third country. Then it sent them home Trump administration seeks to deport more migrants to third countries * Critics ask why migrants can't be deported home instead * Trump tactic stokes fear amid push for mass deportations By Kristina Cooke and Ted Hesson WASHINGTON, - The Trump administration says that some serious criminals need to be deported to third countries because even their home countries won't accept them. But a review of recent cases shows that at least five men threatened with such a fate were sent to their native countries within weeks. President Donald Trump aims to deport millions of immigrants in the U.S. illegally and his administration has sought to ramp up removals to third countries, including sending convicted criminals to South Sudan and Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland, two sub-Saharan African nations. Immigrants convicted of crimes typically first serve their U.S. sentences before being deported. This appeared to be the case with the eight men deported to South Sudan and five to Eswatini, although some had been released years earlier. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security said in June that third-country deportations allow them to deport people 'so uniquely barbaric that their own countries won't take them back.' Critics have countered that it's not clear the U.S. tried to return the men deported to South Sudan and Eswatini to their home countries and that the deportations were unnecessarily cruel. Reuters found that at least five men threatened with deportation to Libya in May were sent to their home countries weeks later, according to interviews with two of the men, a family member and attorneys. After a U.S. judge blocked the Trump administration from sending them to Libya, two men from Vietnam, two men from Laos and a man from Mexico were all deported to their home nations. The deportations have not previously been reported. DHS did not comment on the removals. Reuters could not determine if their home countries initially refused to take them or why the U.S. tried to send them to Libya. DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin contested that the home countries of criminals deported to third countries were willing to take them back, but did not provide details on any attempts to return the five men home before they were threatened with deportation to Libya. 'If you come to our country illegally and break our laws, you could end up in CECOT, , Guantanamo Bay, or South Sudan or another third country,' McLaughlin said in a statement, referencing and a detention center in the subtropical Florida Everglades. FAR FROM HOME DHS did not respond to a request for the number of third-country deportations since Trump took office on January 20, although there have been thousands to Mexico and hundreds to other countries. The eight men sent to South Sudan were from Cuba, Laos, Mexico, Myanmar, South Sudan and Vietnam, according to DHS. The man DHS said was from South Sudan had a deportation order to Sudan, according to a court filing. The five men sent to Eswatini were from Cuba, Jamaica, Laos, Vietnam and Yemen, according to DHS. White House spokeswoman Abigail Jackson said the men deported to South Sudan and Eswatini were 'the worst of the worst' and included people convicted in the United States of child sex abuse and murder. 'American communities are safer with these heinous illegal criminals gone,' Jackson said in a statement. The Laos government did not respond to requests for comment regarding the men threatened with deportation to Libya and those deported to South Sudan and Eswatini. Vietnam's foreign ministry spokesperson said on July 17 that the government was verifying information regarding the South Sudan deportation but did not provide additional comment to Reuters. The government of Mexico did not comment. The Trump administration acknowledged in a May 22 court filing that the man from Myanmar had valid travel documents to return to his home country but he was deported to South Sudan anyway. DHS said the man had been convicted of sexual assault involving a victim mentally and physically incapable of resisting. Eswatini's government said on Tuesday that it was still holding the five migrants sent there in isolated prison units under the deal with the Trump administration. 'A VERY RANDOM OUTCOME' The Supreme Court in June allowed the Trump administration to deport migrants to third countries without giving them a chance to show they could be harmed. But the legality of the removals is still being contested in a federal lawsuit in Boston, a case that could potentially wind its way back to the conservative-leaning high court. Critics say the removals aim to stoke fear among migrants and encourage them to 'self deport' to their home countries rather than be sent to distant countries they have no connection with. 'This is a message that you may end up with a very random outcome that you're going to like a lot less than if you elect to leave under your own steam,' said Michelle Mittelstadt, communications director for the non-partisan Migration Policy Institute. Internal U.S. immigration enforcement guidance issued in July said migrants could be deported to countries that had not provided diplomatic assurances of their safety in as little as six hours. While the administration has highlighted the deportations of convicted criminals to African countries, it has also sent asylum-seeking Afghans, Russians and others to Panama and Costa Rica. The Trump administration deported more than 200 Venezuelans accused of being gang members to El Salvador in March, where they were held in the country's CECOT prison without access to attorneys until they were released in a prisoner swap last month. More than 5,700 non-Mexican migrants have been deported to Mexico since Trump took office, according to Mexican government data, continuing a policy that began under former President Joe Biden. The fact that one Mexican man was deported to South Sudan and another threatened with deportation to Libya suggests that the Trump administration did not try to send them to their home countries, according to Trina Realmuto, executive director at the pro-immigrant National Immigration Litigation Alliance. 'Mexico historically accepts back its own citizens,' said Realmuto, one of the attorneys representing migrants in the lawsuit contesting third-country deportations. The eight men deported to South Sudan included Mexican national Jesus Munoz Gutierrez, who had served a sentence in the U.S. for second-degree murder and was directly taken into federal immigration custody afterward, according to Realmuto. Court records show Munoz stabbed and killed a roommate during a fight in 2004. When the Trump administration first initiated the deportation in late May, Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum said her government had not been informed. 'If he does want to be repatriated, then the United States would have to bring him to Mexico,' Sheinbaum said at the time. His sister, Guadalupe Gutierrez, said in an interview that she didn't understand why he was sent to South Sudan, where he is currently in custody. She said Mexico is trying to get her brother home. 'Mexico never rejected my brother,' Gutierrez said. 'USING US AS A PAWN' Immigration hardliners see the third-country removals as a way to deal with immigration offenders who can't easily be deported and could pose a threat to the U.S. public. "The Trump administration is prioritizing the safety of American communities over the comfort of these deportees,' said Jessica Vaughan, policy director at the Center for Immigration Studies, which supports lower levels of immigration. The Trump administration in July to take migrants and the Pacific Islands nation of Palau, among others. Under U.S. law, federal immigration officials can deport someone to a country other than their place of citizenship when all other efforts are 'impracticable, inadvisable or impossible.' Immigration officials must first try to send an immigrant back to their home country, and if they fail, then to a country with which they have a connection, such as where they lived or were born. For a Lao man who was almost deported to Libya in early May, hearing about the renewed third-country deportations took him back to his own close call. In an interview from Laos granted on condition of anonymity because of fears for his safety, he asked why the U.S. was 'using us as a pawn?' His attorney said the man had served a prison sentence for a felony. Reuters could not establish what he was convicted of. He recalled officials telling him to sign his deportation order to Libya, which he refused, telling them he wanted to be sent to Laos instead. They told him he would be deported to Libya regardless of whether he signed or not, he said. DHS did not comment on the allegations. The man, who came to the United States in the early 1980s as a refugee when he was four years old, said he was now trying to learn the Lao language and adapt to his new life, 'taking it day by day.' This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
USA Today
01-08-2025
- Health
- USA Today
What's the difference between Diet Coke and Coke Zero?
Most of us know how refreshing and satisfying a Coke can be. Whether it's poured over ice on a hot summer day, is accompanying a burger and fries at lunch or is sipped alongside a tub of buttery popcorn during a blockbuster movie, it's a beverage that has a way of hitting the spot. But no one drinks a can of cola thinking it's actually good for them. Among the many Coca-Cola varieties that include Classic, Diet, Zero Sugar and flavored options like Cherry Coke and Vanilla Coke, one is probably better for your health than the others. Here's what's different and similar between the most popular varieties of Coca-Cola, plus which ones are likely to cause the fewest issues for your health goals in the long run. What is Coca-Cola? Is there a difference between Coca-Cola and Coke? Coca-Cola is more than just a soft drink; it's a global brand empire. Founded in 1886 in Atlanta, the company has grown into the world's largest beverage corporation, boasting over 200 iconic brands. In addition to its flagship cola, Coca-Cola owns well-known drinks like Sprite, Fanta, Powerade, Minute Maid, and even the bottled water brand Dasani. Its most iconic product, Coca-Cola Classic (usually just called Coke), is a carbonated soft drink made primarily of carbonated water, high-fructose corn syrup (or cane sugar in some countries), caramel coloring, phosphoric acid, caffeine and unspecified 'natural flavors,' according to its nutrition label. Sometimes cherry- or vanilla-flavored syrup are also added to the formulation for Cherry Coke and Vanilla Coke varieties. Thanks to its sweetness, distinct flavor, caffeine content and fizz, Classic Coke has become one of the most consumed beverages worldwide. But its high sugar content has also made it and other sugary drinks a frequent target of health experts. 'Regular sodas are one of the leading sources of added sugars in the American diet,' says Caroline Susie, a registered dietitian and national spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Indeed, a single 20-ounce bottle of Classic Coke contains a staggering 65 grams of added sugars, which is about 130% the recommended daily limit. In response to growing concerns over sugar intake, Coca-Cola introduced Diet Coke in 1982 and Coke Zero in 2005. (The same drink was rebranded as Coca-Cola Zero Sugar in 2017, though it's still often called Coke Zero). Both options are sugar-free, using artificial sweeteners instead. But both varieties do differ in formulation: Diet Coke uses only aspartame and has its own distinct flavor, while Coke Zero combines aspartame with acesulfame potassium – and sometimes stevia – giving it a flavor profile some consumers feel is closer to Coca-Cola Classic, explains Kristina Cooke, a licensed nutritionist specializing in diabetes treatment and prevention. 'Healthiest' sugar substitute? What to know after new aspartame, erythritol studies. Is Diet Coke bad for you? No dietitian, nutritionist or physician would classify either Diet Coke or Coke Zero as healthy, but many would call them healthier alternatives to regular soda. At the same time, even as they eliminate added sugars, some of the sugar substitutes they contain come with controversies of their own. For instance, in 2023, the World Health Organization's International Agency for Research on Cancer classified aspartame as 'possibly carcinogenic to humans,' citing limited evidence linking high intake to liver cancer in some studies. Despite this, major regulatory agencies including the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) continue to deem aspartame safe when consumed in moderation. Still, the science isn't settled. And there are other considerations as well including additional research that has raised concerns that high consumption of artificial sweeteners may increase appetite, disrupt gut bacteria and even contribute to insulin resistance. Though these effects tend to be subtle and depend heavily on individual factors, they cast some doubt on the assumption that diet soda supports weight loss or is better for overall health. Meanwhile, the health concerns surrounding Classic, Cherry and Vanilla Coke's high sugar content are more clear-cut. Excess sugar intake is strongly linked to obesity, type 2 diabetes, fatty liver disease and heart disease. Regardless of the variety being diet or otherwise, Susie emphasizes that soda offers 'zero essential nutrients' and often displaces healthier beverage options like water, milk or unsweetened tea. Noted: Americans drink a staggering amount of Diet Coke, other sodas. What does it do to our stomachs? What is the healthiest Coke? If you're looking to choose between all these less-than-ideal options, the 'healthiest' Coke is probably Coke Zero Sugar, but only by a small margin. That's largely because Classic Coke (and its flavored Cherry and Vanilla varieties) are not only loaded with added sugars but also has a significant number of empty calories. A 20-ounce bottle of Classic Coke contains about 240 calories, energy that's quickly burned without the benefit of fiber or other nutrients and sometimes leading to glucose spikes, sugar crashes and weight gain. Both Diet Coke and Coke Zero Sugar sidestep these problems by being both calorie- and sugar-free. 'That alone makes them better choices,' Cooke says. And since both contain the same amount of aspartame, the risks associated with artificial sweeteners are similar either way. Where Coke Zero has a slight edge though is in its lower caffeine content: 34 milligrams per 12-ounce can compared to 46 milligrams of caffeine in Diet Coke. While moderate amounts of caffeine are generally considered safe, excessive intake may contribute to anxiety, disrupted sleep and elevated heart rate and blood pressure. Despite this edge, either Diet Coke or Coke Zero is almost certainly a smarter pick than the classic or flavored varieties. 'For those aiming to reduce added sugar intake, especially for weight management or diabetes, diet soda can be a reasonable alternative to regular soda,' Susie says. But quantity may ultimately matter more than whichever variety you choose. 'Rather than focusing on which of these beverage options someone chooses, I help people focus on how often they drink soda and how much they consume as part of their overall eating pattern,' says Shelley Rael, a registered dietitian and nutritionist based in Albuquerque, New Mexico. 'A Coke or a Diet Coke here and there isn't a dealbreaker for health; it's daily or excessive intake that is the bigger concern."
Yahoo
29-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
The 4 'key minerals' that make cottage cheese good for you
Once written off as a bland diet food, cottage cheese has become a versatile dairy staple that's surged in popularity thanks to its creamy texture, high protein content and ability to pair well with both sweet and savory dishes. You'll find it piled on toast with fruit and honey at brunch spots, blended into smoothies at health cafes, scooped alongside tomatoes and crackers at summer barbecues and used as a healthier substitute for cream cheese, heavy cream, ricotta and sour cream. "People are incorporating cottage cheese into almost every recipe you can think of," says Kristen Smith, a registered dietitian nutritionist and spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. But as trendy as it has become, is cottage cheese actually good for you? Here's what to know. What is cottage cheese? Cottage cheese is a fresh, unripened cheese known for its mild and tangy flavor and distinctive curds. It's made by curdling milk with an acid or enzyme, then "taking the solid parts of the milk (called curds) after they've been separated from the liquid part known as whey," explains Smith. Once this separation occurs, the curds are "drained, rinsed and seasoned with salt" before often being combined with a "creamy dressing" to create the signature texture we associate with cottage cheese, says Kristina Cooke, a California-based licensed nutritionist and registered dietitian. Its signature lumpiness can vary depending on how the curds are cut and processed. Some varieties feature small curds, while others offer large ones. And sometimes the mixture is whipped together, making a smoother product. No matter which variety you prefer, Cooke says that freshness is what sets cottage cheese apart from other cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella or brie. Aged cheeses undergo fermentation and drying processes that intensify flavor and extend shelf life, while cottage cheese has a higher moisture content and must be refrigerated to prevent spoilage. While this gives it a shorter shelf life, cottage cheese has the advantage of retaining more water-soluble nutrients and offering a lighter, more delicate flavor. Cheese has plenty of protein. But it's not 100% good for you. Is cottage cheese good for you? Cottage cheese has a lot to offer in terms of health benefits. "Cottage cheese is packed with protein, which helps your body build and fix tissue, keeps you feeling full and supports muscle growth," says Smith. Indeed, a 1/2-cup serving offers about 12 to 15 grams of protein – and with a tradeoff of less than 100 calories to boot. Its high protein content, along with being low in calories and carbs, "make cottage cheese an excellent option for people trying to lose weight, build muscle or manage conditions such as type 2 diabetes," says Shelley Rael, a registered dietitian and nutritionist based in Albuquerque, New Mexico. This is especially true when it's used as a nutritious substitute for less healthy ingredients, such as replacing mayonnaise in tuna salad, sour cream in dips or creamy dressings atop salads. Cottage cheese is also high in calcium and phosphorus, "which are key minerals for healthy bones, energy and DNA synthesis," says Cooke. And it's a good source of selenium – a powerful antioxidant linked to reduced inflammation and thyroid function; and vitamin B12 – a crucial nutrient for brain health and red blood cell production. "Some types of cottage cheese (those made with live, active cultures) can also give you a boost of probiotics – the good bacteria that help keep your gut healthy," adds Smith. Calcium is a vital part of your diet. Are you getting enough? Can you eat cottage cheese every day? While cottage cheese is a healthy food, it isn't ideal for everyone – or for every meal. One reason is that it contains fat and can be high in sodium. "Some cottage cheese brands can be moderate to high in saturated fat and sodium, which may pose a negative impact on heart health," says Cooke. Indeed, some commercial varieties contain over 400 milligrams of sodium per 1/2-cup serving – nearly 20% of the recommended daily intake. While everyone should monitor their sodium intake, people with high blood pressure or kidney disease need to be especially mindful. And its fat content "can raise your 'bad' LDL cholesterol and increase the chance of heart problems," says Smith. And as a dairy product, cottage cheese contains lactose. "This is a type of sugar that can be difficult for some people to digest," says Smith. Though it contains less lactose than milk, people with lactose intolerance may still experience bloating, cramping or digestive discomfort after eating the cheese. People with dairy allergies or certain autoimmune conditions may also want to steer clear of cottage cheese, notes Rael, as dairy proteins can trigger inflammation and other reactions in sensitive individuals. In the end, "cottage cheese is a great way to add protein to sweet or savory dishes without also adding excess calories or fat," says Cooke. "But if you have elevated cholesterol or blood pressure, consider low-sodium or non-fat options." This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Is cottage cheese good for you? And how much protein?
