Paneer, also known as Indian cottage cheese, is a versatile and protein-rich dairy product that plays a key role in many traditional and modern diets. Made by curdling milk with a natural acid like lemon juice or vinegar, paneer is packed with high-quality protein, calcium, phosphorus, and essential B vitamins. Beyond taste, this versatile food ingredient offers a lot of health benefits. As per the National Library of Medicine, paneer is a rich source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. It also provides significant amounts of calcium and phosphorus, which are crucial for maintaining strong bones and teeth. Additionally, paneer contains fat-soluble vitamins like A and D, contributing to its high nutritive value. Take a look at 6 benefits of consuming this dairy product daily.
It is one of the best vegetarian sources of high-quality protein. 100 grams of fresh paneer contains around 18–20 grams of protein, making it an excellent choice for muscle building, tissue repair, and overall body maintenance. The protein in paneer is complete, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids that your body can’t produce on its own.
Paneer is a powerhouse of calcium and phosphorus, two essential minerals that play a vital role in maintaining strong and healthy bones. It is said that regular consumption of paneer helps improve bone density, supports the structure of teeth, and reduces the risk of conditions like osteoporosis as you age. Also, paneer provides vitamin D, which enhances calcium absorption in the body. It’s especially beneficial for children, adolescents, and older adults, whose bone health needs are higher.
Due to its high protein and healthy fat content, paneer keeps you full for longer, reducing unnecessary cravings and overeating. Also, paneer has a low glycemic index, which helps regulate blood sugar levels and supports fat metabolism. The healthy fats in paneer also provide sustained energy, making it a smart snack or meal component.
Rich protein content and essential amino acids help boost metabolism. Paneer also contains B vitamins, especially vitamin B12 and riboflavin, which play a crucial role in converting food into energy and maintaining a healthy metabolic rate. It is said that adding paneer in daily meals can keep energy levels steady and support efficient calorie burning.
It contains casein protein, which digests slowly and steadily, keeping your system balanced without overloading it. Paneer also provides a good amount of healthy fats, which help in the smooth movement of food through the digestive tract. Also, it contains small amounts of probiotic-friendly cultures that support gut health.
It has low carbohydrate content and high protein and healthy fat profile, which helps managing blood sugar levels. These nutrients help slow down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, preventing sudden spikes in blood glucose after meals. Also, its low glycemic index (GI) makes it a safe and satisfying addition to diabetic-friendly diets.
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