Cheese is a good source of calcium, which helps build strong bones and teeth, and also prevents osteoporosis. Cheese provides 25% of the calcium in the food supply.

Cheese contains a high concentration of essential nutrients: calcium, phosphorus, zinc, vitamin A, riboflavin, vitamin B12 and high-quality protein. Certain cheeses, including Cheddar, Swiss, Blue, Monterey Jack and process American, have been demonstrated to reduce the risk of dental caries.

Individuals who are lactose-intolerant can safely consume aged cheeses, which contain little or no lactose.

Both regular and lowfat cheese products are available in today’s market. Research has shown that a diet that includes three servings per day of dairy foods (such as lowfat and fat-free milk and yogurt, high and lowfat cheeses) as well as eight to 10 servings per day of fruits and vegetables reduces blood pressure and other risk factors for heart disease, including lowering HDL-cholesterol and blood homocysteine levels.

New research demonstrates that an energy-controlled diet rich in dairy products, including cheese in moderation, is associated with lower body weight as well as reduced risk of developing insulin resistance syndrome.