Experts advise choosing natural, fresh cheeses in moderation for those with diabetes, emphasising the importance of reading labels and managing portion sizes to balance enjoyment with health considerations.
Cheese can fit into a diabetes-friendly diet, but the details matter. According to Elias Suvalsky, a diabetes specialist who creates content for Diabesmart, most cheeses do not raise blood glucose sharply because they are low in carbohydrate and are made mostly of fat and protein. That means the issue is usually not a direct spike in sugar, but the broader nutritional profile of the cheese and the portion eaten.
Suvalsky advises people with diabetes to favour fresh cheeses over aged ones, and to look for lower-fat options such as cottage cheese, panela, requesón, mozzarella, feta, goat’s cheese and Burgos cheese. He also notes that cheese should not be treated as a simple protein food, since many varieties contain more fat than protein. That matters because saturated fat can add to cardiovascular risk, which is already higher in people with diabetes.
The distinction between natural and highly processed cheese is also important. Natural cheeses are generally lower in carbohydrate, but products with flavourings, colourings, preservatives and other additives can be a different matter. Some cheese-like products are made with more vegetable oils than milk, and ingredient lists may also include added sugars or extra fats. Diabetes Québec and other diabetes guidance sources similarly recommend watching portion sizes and choosing cheeses that are lower in fat and sodium.
Sodium is the other major concern. Suvalsky says aged and heavily processed cheeses tend to be saltier than fresh varieties, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has long warned that diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and chronic kidney disease often overlap. That is why cheese can still be part of a balanced menu, especially when paired with vegetables, whole grains and other nutrient-dense foods. The practical message is straightforward: choose natural cheese, keep servings moderate and read the label carefully before buying.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
