What Kind of Cheese Has Low Potassium?

According to the National Kidney Foundation, some cheeses contain significantly less potassium than others, making them a suitable option for those managing kidney health. So, what kind of cheese has low potassium? The lowest options include soft goat cheese, parmesan, feta, and Swiss, with specific amounts varying by brand and serving size.

Quick Summary

This guide provides an overview of low-potassium cheeses, detailing specific examples like goat cheese, Swiss, and parmesan, along with their potassium content per serving. It also offers practical tips for including cheese in a restricted diet, comparing different types, and suggesting suitable recipes for those monitoring their potassium intake.

Key Points

• Goat Cheese is a Top Choice: Soft goat cheese, or chèvre, is one of the lowest potassium cheeses, offering just 7-8 mg per ounce.

• Parmesan is Low in Potassium: Shredded parmesan cheese contains very little potassium per serving and adds a lot of flavor, making a small amount effective.

• Swiss and Feta are Good Options: Swiss and feta cheeses both contain low to moderate amounts of potassium, around 18-23 mg per ounce, but feta is high in sodium.

• Portion Control is Critical: Even low-potassium cheeses should be consumed in moderation, especially considering other nutrients like sodium and phosphorus.

• Cream Cheese is a Viable Soft Cheese: Regular cream cheese is another low-potassium choice, though it's higher than goat cheese, with around 40 mg per ounce.

• Consult a Dietitian: For specific dietary needs, especially for conditions like Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), always consult with a healthcare professional or renal dietitian.

Low-Potassium Cheese Options for Health-Conscious Eaters

For individuals on a low-potassium diet, particularly those with kidney disease, selecting the right type of cheese is crucial for managing health without sacrificing flavor. While many dairy products can be high in potassium, several cheeses stand out as excellent low-potassium choices. These options allow you to incorporate the creamy texture and rich taste of cheese into your meals while staying within dietary guidelines.

Hard Cheeses with Low Potassium

• Parmesan: Often used in small quantities for flavor, shredded parmesan is one of the best low-potassium cheeses available, with just 5 to 10 mg per two-tablespoon serving. Its strong taste means a little goes a long way, making it an ideal choice for topping pasta, salads, or soups.
• Swiss Cheese: Known for its nutty flavor and distinctive holes, Swiss cheese is another great option, providing around 22-23 mg of potassium per one-ounce serving. It's a versatile choice that works well on sandwiches, in omelets, or as a snack.
• Fontina: This semi-soft to hard cheese offers a rich, buttery flavor and is relatively low in potassium, containing about 18 mg per ounce. Fontina melts beautifully, making it a great addition to grilled cheese sandwiches or baked dishes.

Soft Cheeses with Low Potassium

• Soft Goat Cheese (Chèvre): Considered one of the lowest in potassium, soft goat cheese typically has just 7-8 mg per ounce, depending on the source. Its tangy flavor and creamy texture make it a great addition to salads, crackers, or as a spread.
• Feta: This salty, crumbly Greek cheese has a strong flavor profile that allows you to use a small amount for a big impact. One ounce of feta contains only 18-19 mg of potassium. Feta works well in salads, wraps, or baked into savory dishes.
• Cream Cheese: With approximately 37-40 mg of potassium per one-ounce (or two-tablespoon) serving, regular full-fat cream cheese is another suitable low-potassium option. It's a classic for a reason, perfect for bagels, dips, or as a base for sauces.

Comparing Popular Cheeses for Potassium Content

Choosing the right cheese involves considering not only potassium but also sodium and phosphorus. Here is a comparison of some popular options per a standard 1-ounce (30 g) serving:

Cheese Type	Potassium (mg)	Sodium (mg)	Phosphorus (mg)
Soft Goat Cheese	8	138	77
Feta	19	275	101
Swiss	23	21	170
Mozzarella	23	213	124
Cheddar	23	194	143
Cream Cheese	40	108	32
Ricotta	69 (per 1/4 cup)	55 (per 1/4 cup)	104 (per 1/4 cup)

The Importance of Mindful Portion Sizes

Even with low-potassium cheeses, moderation is key. Dietary needs, especially for those with conditions like Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), can vary significantly from person to person. A healthcare provider or renal dietitian should always be consulted for personalized advice. While many of the lowest potassium options also have lower phosphorus and sodium, some, like feta, are high in sodium and should be consumed in limited quantities. Learning to appreciate the strong flavors of these cheeses in smaller portions can make it easier to stay on track.

Cooking with Low-Potassium Cheeses

• Savory Goat Cheese Tartlets: Use soft goat cheese with some herbs and a low-potassium crust for an elegant appetizer.
• Swiss and Mushroom Omelet: A classic combination, using Swiss cheese adds a delicious, nutty flavor to eggs.
• Parmesan Crusted Chicken or Fish: A sprinkle of shredded parmesan provides a crunchy, flavorful crust without significantly increasing potassium.
• Stuffed Bell Peppers with Feta: Since bell peppers are also low in potassium, stuffing them with a mixture of low-potassium rice and feta makes for a delicious and compliant meal.
• Cream Cheese and Cucumber Bites: A simple and fresh snack using cream cheese spread on a slice of cucumber and topped with a sprinkle of dill.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

For those needing to manage their potassium intake, there are several delicious and accessible low-potassium cheese options. By choosing varieties like soft goat cheese, parmesan, and Swiss, you can enjoy the satisfying flavor and texture of cheese while adhering to dietary restrictions. Remember to pay close attention to serving sizes and individual nutritional needs. With careful planning and mindful consumption, cheese can remain a flavorful component of a healthy, low-potassium diet. For additional resources and specific dietary planning, consider consulting the National Kidney Foundation's guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cheese has the absolute lowest potassium?

Soft goat cheese (chèvre) is typically the lowest in potassium, containing as little as 7-8 mg per ounce, making it an excellent choice for a very restricted diet.

Can I eat cheese on a renal diet?

Yes, but with careful consideration. Many cheeses can be high in phosphorus and sodium. Low-potassium options like goat cheese, Swiss, and parmesan can be included in small, controlled portions as part of a renal diet, with a doctor or dietitian's approval.

Is mozzarella cheese low in potassium?

Yes, part-skim mozzarella cheese is a low-potassium option, with about 22-27 mg per ounce. It is a versatile choice for many recipes.

How much cheese is considered a low-potassium serving?

A standard serving size is typically one ounce (or 30 grams) for most hard and soft cheeses. For shredded parmesan, a 1-2 tablespoon serving is common.

What is a good low-potassium cheese substitute for cheddar?

While cheddar can be high in potassium, low-sodium Swiss cheese is a great substitute that offers a nutty flavor profile and lower potassium content.

Is cottage cheese low in potassium?

No, regular cottage cheese is not considered a low-potassium cheese. It contains a higher amount compared to many other varieties, especially if no-salt-added options are not used, and should be avoided or limited on a low-potassium diet.

Are there any high-potassium cheeses to avoid?

Yes, while many cheeses are fine in moderation, processed cheese slices and some high-moisture varieties may contain more potassium and should be checked carefully against dietary needs.