A sports dietitian explains which protein-rich cheeses can support fullness.

Are you trying to blast belly fat? Clearly, your diet is crucial. If you like cheese, you are in luck. According to Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian and co-author of the Flat Belly Cookbook for Dummies, cheese can be incorporated into your weight loss diet. “No single food causes belly fat loss. However, higher-protein cheeses that are easy to portion can support fullness and muscle maintenance, both of which are important for overall fat loss,” she says. Here are the 7 best cheeses you can eat while losing belly fat.

Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is one of the highest-protein cheeses, which helps support muscle growth and keep you full. “Maintaining muscle is important for metabolism, especially when you’re trying to lose abdominal fat. Low-fat or full-fat can work depending on portions and preferences,” she says.6254a4d1642c605c54bf1cab17d50f1e

Greek-Style Feta

Greek-style feta is also a good choice. “Feta has a strong flavor, so a little goes a long way,” Collingwood says. “That makes it easier to control portions while still adding satisfaction to meals. Great crumbled over salads or roasted vegetables.”

Part-Skim Mozzarella

“Mozzarella is relatively low in calories and provides protein and calcium, nutrients that support body composition when included in a balanced diet. String cheese portions make this especially easy to manage,” she says.

Parmesan

Parmesan is another cheese you can eat while losing weight. “Hard cheeses like Parmesan are flavorful and protein-dense, meaning you can use small amounts and still feel satisfied. A tablespoon or two adds big flavor without many calories,” Collingwood says.

Swiss Cheese

Swiss cheese is a solid option. “Swiss cheese offers protein with less sodium than many other cheeses, which can be helpful for people watching their bloating or water retention. Pairs well with whole-grain bread or fruit,” says Collingwood.

Ricotta (Part-Skim)

Collingwood is a fan of ricotta, which “provides protein and calcium and works well in both sweet and savory dishes, making it easier to stick with a calorie-controlled plan,” she says. “Try it with berries or herbs and vegetables.”

Goat Cheese

Goat cheese is her last cheese recommendation for losing belly fat. “Goat cheese is rich and tangy, which helps with portion control, and some people find it easier to digest than cow’s milk cheeses. A little adds creaminess to salads and bowls,” Collingwood states.

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Dietitians share simple daily snacks that support fat loss, muscle, and metabolism after sixty.

Snacking often gets a bed reputation when it comes to losing weight. Some people equate snacking with adding extra calories to your daily count. However, there is another way of looking at it. Snacking can also amp up your protein intake, while satiating cravings. As you age, selecting snacks to fuel your body can be tricky. We asked our go-to nutritionist, Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian and co-author of the Flat Belly Cookbook for Dummies for recommendations. Whether you like sweet or savory snacks, she has options that will keep your fueled up in between meals. Here are 4 daily snacks that shrink belly pooch without exercise after 60.

Greek Yogurt with Berries

Greek Yogurt with Berries is the first snack on Collingwood’s list. “Protein becomes especially important as we age to help preserve muscle, and Greek yogurt delivers a solid protein boost in a small, easy-to-eat snack. Adding berries adds fiber, which helps keep hunger at bay longer. This combo supports muscle health, digestion, and steady energy,” she says.

Harvest Snaps with Hummus or Cottage Cheese

Harvest Snaps with Hummus or Cottage Cheese offers some salt and crunch but also protein. “Harvest Snaps Lightly Salted are made from real veggies, so they naturally provide 4g of fiber and 5g of satiating, whole food-sourced protein. Pairing them with hummus or cottage cheese adds even more protein.  The crunch satisfies cravings, while protein and fiber work together to promote fullness,” Collingwood says.

Apple Slices with Peanut or Almond Butter

Apple Slices with Peanut or Almond Butter is a delicious snack you can make at home. “Fiber from fruit plus protein and fat from nut butter is a classic combination that works especially well after 50, when blood sugar stability and satiety really matter,” Collingwood explains. “This snack is portable, satisfying, and easy to adjust for appetite.”6254a4d1642c605c54bf1cab17d50f1e

Smoothie with Protein and Fiber

You can never go wrong with a smoothie packed with protein and fiber to fuel you up for the day. “A small smoothie with protein powder, berries, and chia or flax offers both protein and fiber in a convenient form. You can customize the type of protein you prefer and drink it at your desk or on the go,” says Collingwood.

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