Mozzarella cheese is a semi-soft cheese that originated in Italy. Originally the cheese was made from the milk of water buffalos. Today mozzarella is one of the world’s best cheeses and is made from cow’s milk. It’s mostly white in color, however, some are golden brown in color. You can now find low-carb mozzarella sticks, these cant act as a perfect keto appetizer or keto bomb. It is also preferred for cooking as it has a low melting point as compared to other cheeses.
Most people miss dairy while on the ketogenic diet, However people with lactose intolerance should stay away from dairy products such as cheese. The good news is that most brands of mozzarella range in net carbs from zero carbs to 2 grams of carbs. Remember the goal in keto is to carbohydrate intake to around 20-30 grams of daily total carbs.
Mozzarella cheese is keto-friendly as they have a high-fat content and is low in carbohydrates. Cheese is a great addition to most dishes, making it easy to incorporate into your keto recipes. Mozzarella cheese is also high in probiotics which help improve gut health and digestion. This cheese can be enjoyed as a side dish with salads such as the Caprese salad. They can also be used to make keto cheese sticks.
Consuming this cheese in a small amount is encouraged as they are still high in saturated fats and calories.
Is fresh mozzarella low carb?
Unlike other cheeses which are aged before consumption, Mozzarella is best enjoyed fresh. Fresh mozzarella is allowed on a low-carb diet, as its high in fats, moderate in protein, and low in carbohydrates.
However, mozzarella can also be aged, in fact, there are two types of mozzarella aged and fresh cheese
How Many Carbs are in Mozzarella Cheese?
The carb content in mozzarella cheese will range across different brands. Generally speaking, most cheeses are low in carbs, and Mozzarella isn’t any different. This cheese is low in carbs while adding protein and flavor to your keto meals
A whole cup of standard mozzarella cheese contains 3.5grams of carbs. There are 8 grams of net carbs in breaded mozzarella cheese stick while a small mozzarella ball roughly 1 inch in size contains about 0.4g of net carbs.
Protein in Mozzarella
Mozzarella is a great source of protein with 8 grams of protein in a single 1-ounce slice.
Sugar in Mozzarella
Mozzarella cheese contains o.3g of sugar in a single 1-ounce slice, This is very little sugar and won’t ruin your keto diet.
Nutrition Facts
Serving size Per 1-ounce slice (28g) of Mozzarella cheese.
Total Fat 4.8 grams
Saturated fat 3 grams
Polyunsaturated fat 0.1 grams
Monounsaturated fat 1.4 grams
Cholesterol 15.1 milligrams
Sodium 4.5 milligrams
Potassium 26.6 milligrams
Total Carbohydrate 0.9 grams
Dietary fiber 0 grams
Sugar 0.3 grams
Protein 8 grams
Mozzarella Benefits
Rich in Vitamin A, E, and D
Mozzarella is rich in vitamins A, vitamin E, and vitamin D which are fat-soluble vitamins utilized in the absorption of calcium and protection of body cells.
Rich in Biotin (Vitamin B7)
Mozzarella cheese is rich in Biotin commonly known as Vitamin B7. This vitamin plays an important role in the development of healthy nails and in preventing hair loss. Studies have proven that biotin can also lower blood glucose levels in diabetics. Since this mineral is water-soluble and passed out in urine, you can only get a day’s worth from eating cheese.
Rich in Calcium
Mozzarella contains high amounts of calcium about 180miligrams in a single 1-ounce slice. Calcium plays a major role in healthy strong bones and teeth. It has also been linked to weight loss, reducing risks of cancer, and protecting the heart’s muscles.
A Good Source of Protein
Mozzarella cheese contains moderate protein which is used by the body to build muscles. Protein also improves satiety making you feel full longer which leads to you eating less.
Contains Potassium
Mozzarella contains potassium. This mineral performs important functions in the body including lowering blood pressure and stabilizing abysmal heart rhythms. Potassium has also been linked to the prevention of osteoporosis, stroke, and kidney stones.
Rich in Riboflavin
Mozzarella is rich in Riboflavin commonly referred to as vitamin B2. This mineral plays many vital roles in the body. It is required by the body to break down food for energy. It also helps the body in oxidizing food. Vitamin B2 has multiple other health benefits like helping the body fight migraine and anemia.
Contains Niacin
Mozzarella contains Niacin commonly known as Vitamin B3. This vitamin plays an important role in the body’s metabolism of burning fat for energy. Vitamin B3 is needed by every part of the body and has many other major health benefits such as lowering cholesterol and helping fight onset diabetes and arthritis.
Contains Phosphorus
The famous mozzarella cheese contains phosphorus another vital mineral. Phosphorus is needed for healthy digestion and proper kidney function. It also helps fight brain fog and fatigue.
Contains Zinc
Zinc is abundant in Mozzarella, this mineral increases the white blood cells count and facilitate a healthy prostate. Other studies have also linked zinc with weight loss
Other kinds of cheese that are low in carbs include parmesan cheese, cottage cheese, goat cheese, and blue cheese. They all contain a high-fat content required by a high fat diet such as keto. Low grams of carb per serving also make cheese ok for other low-carb diets such as paleo and Atkins. Some of the cheeses however contain a higher carb count as compared to mozzarella
