String cheese is a type of low-moisture mozzarella cheese that can be pulled to form strings. String cheese is mild and creamy with a texture similar to that of pizza cheese. Cheese, and other milk products, are excellent sources of protein and are typically rich in riboflavin, phosphorous, zinc, calcium and Vitamins A, D and B12.
Riboflavin
Riboflavin, also known as vitamin B2, is a conenzyme; it is used to catalyze the biochemical reactions behind the metabolic processes that make energy available to our cells. Riboflavin deficiency is characterized by inflammation of the membranes in the mouth, skin, eyes and gastrointestinal tract.
Phosphorus
Phosphorus is a mineral found in all tissues of the body but most abundantly in the bones and teeth. It serves many different functions, from providing structure to DNA to buffering the pH of bodily fluids. Phosphorus is also a critical component of energy metabolism. Phosphorus is found in virtually all foods, but cheese and milk contribute about one-fourth of dietary phosphorus intake in the United States. Phosphorus deficiency is rare, usually only occurring with the use of certain medications that bind to the mineral. Symptoms of deficiency include muscle weakness and bone pain.
Zinc
Zinc is a trace element found in all cells of the body. It is used by proteins and enzymes that participate in gene expression, growth and development, immune system function, vitamin A metabolism and many other processes. Zinc deficiency is linked to several health problems, including impaired immune function, diarrhea, deficits in cognitive and motor activity, thyroid dysfunction and vitamin A deficiency. The best sources of dietary zinc are protein-rich foods, including milk and cheese.
Calcium and Vitamin D
Calcium and vitamin D are essential for bone growth, development and maintenance. Vitamin D is required for the absorption of calcium, so it is important to ensure adequate intake of both for healthy bones and proper metabolic function. Calcium is also involved in hormone secretion, muscle contraction and the transmission of impulses throughout the nervous system. Meeting the recommended daily value of calcium is thought to contribute to the maintenance of healthy body weight and protect against the development of hypertension. Milk products, such as cheese, serve as the most abundant source of dietary calcium. Calcium and vitamin D deficiency are linked to rickets and osteoporosis.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin used by the body to promote vision and support the growth and differentiation of cells. It is also important for reproduction and fetal development. Animal products such as meat, milk and cheese are the richest sources of dietary vitamin A. Deficiency in vitamin A is associated with several types of visual impairment.
Vitamin B12
Animal meats or animal-derived foods such as milks and cheeses serve as an abundant source of vitamin B12. A water-soluble vitamin, B12 serves to maintain and regenerate old, damaged cells as well as assist in energy metabolism. Symptoms of B12 deficiency include: fatigue, anemia, constipation, loss of appetite and paralysis.
References
- Eat Wisconsin Cheese: Cheesecyclopedia
- "Understanding Nutrition (11th Edition)"; Ellie Whitney and Shoron Rody Rolfes; 2007
Member Comments