Cheese can be a satisfying -- and healthy -- addition to any meal.

Although cheese is a concentrated source of calories, it should not be thought of as a high-fat no-no. Cheese is an excellent source of protein, calcium, phosphorus, vitamin B12, and other important vitamins and minerals. People who need to monitor fat intake can get more cheese flavor with smaller amounts of intense-flavored cheeses, such as Gruyere.

People sensitive to lactose may prefer hard, aged cheese, such as Parmagiano-Reggiano. It is easier to eat because most of the lactose has been broken down during ripening. Goat cheese, naturally lower in lactose, is another tasty choice.

Up and Coming Cheeses
These interesting cheeses are making inroads into American supermarkets and specialty stores. They are well worth looking for, or ask you local cheese purveyor to order them.