5 Healthy Cheese Choices

From cheese-stuffed sandwiches to the samples on toothpicks in the grocery store, cheese seems to be everywhere. While it is a good source of calcium, its high calorie (and often high sodium) content means it should be enjoyed in moderation. This is not as hard as it may seem when you consider how flavorful cheese can be - try the following when the cheese plate comes your way:

1. Choose a small piece of a cheese you really enjoy and savor it.
2. Fill up on low-calorie vegetables and fruits, and add a piece of cheese on the side.
3. Try not to eat more than one to two ounces every few days.
4. Opt for high-quality, organic versions.
5. If you're pregnant, avoid soft cheeses (such as feta, goat, blue and brie) as they may harbor Listeria, a bacterium that can harm a growing baby. Instead, choose hard cheeses like Parmesan, Gruyere and hard Swiss cheese when you're eating for two.