Cheese, Brick – A Low Glycemic Dairy Option

Brick cheese is a versatile dairy product that originated in Wisconsin. With its mild flavor that becomes stronger with age, brick cheese can be an excellent addition to your low-glycemic diet. Let’s explore its nutritional profile and how it fits into a glycemic-conscious eating plan.

Glycemic Information

Brick cheese has a Glycemic Index (GI) of 27, which places it firmly in the low glycemic category. Foods with a GI below 55 are considered low glycemic options that cause a slower, more gradual rise in blood glucose levels.

Even more impressive is its Glycemic Load (GL) of just 0.75. Glycemic load takes into account both the quality (GI) and quantity of carbohydrates, making it an even more practical measure for blood sugar impact. A GL under 10 is considered low, making brick cheese an excellent choice for those monitoring blood glucose.

Nutritional Profile per 100g Serving

• Calories: 371
• Protein: 23.2g
• Fat: 29.7g
• Carbohydrates: 2.79g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 0.51g
• Net Carbs: 2.79g

Why Brick Cheese Works for Low-Glycemic Diets

Brick cheese is an excellent food choice for those following a low-glycemic diet for several reasons:

• Minimal carbohydrate content: With just 2.79g of carbohydrates per 100g serving, brick cheese contains very few carbs that could affect blood sugar.
• High protein content: The 23.2g of protein per serving helps keep you feeling full longer and can help stabilize blood sugar levels.
• No fiber but still low-GI: Despite having no dietary fiber (which typically helps lower GI), brick cheese naturally has a low glycemic impact.

How to Include Brick Cheese in Your Diet

Brick cheese can be incorporated into your meals in various ways while maintaining its low glycemic benefits:

• Add to salads for extra protein without significant carbohydrates
• Enjoy with low-GI vegetables as a satisfying snack
• Use as a topping for low-carb dishes
• Include in omelets or frittatas for a protein-rich breakfast

Who Should Consider Brick Cheese?

This cheese variety can be particularly beneficial for:

• Individuals with diabetes or insulin resistance
• Those following ketogenic or low-carb diets
• People trying to manage their blood sugar levels
• Anyone looking to add more protein to their diet with minimal glycemic impact

Conclusion

With its low glycemic index, minimal glycemic load, and impressive protein content, brick cheese can be a valuable addition to a low-glycemic diet. Its versatility in cooking and rich nutritional profile make it an excellent choice for those managing blood sugar levels while still enjoying delicious food options.

Remember to consume brick cheese in moderation as part of a balanced diet, as it is relatively high in calories and fat. When paired with other low-glycemic foods like vegetables and whole grains, brick cheese can be part of a sustainable and satisfying eating plan.