Cheese Could Have Brain-Boosting Benefits
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A recent study suggests that incorporating high-fat cheese into your diet might be beneficial for brain health and could potentially lower the risk of developing dementia. The research, which was published in the journal Neurology, indicates that individuals who include high-fat cheese in their diets may be associated with a reduced risk of dementia, with a 13% decrease in risk among participants who consumed high-fat cheese.
According to the study, high-fat dairy products such as cheese and cream were found to have a positive impact on brain health, whereas low-fat alternatives did not show a significant association. High-fat products in this context referred to those with at least 2.5% fat content for milk, 20% for cheese, and 30% for cream. Varieties of cheese that fall into this category include soft cheeses like camembert and brie, hard cheeses like cheddar, semi-soft cheeses like Gruyère and gouda, as well as blue cheeses like stilton.
The study analysed data from over 27,000 participants, revealing that those who consumed high-fat cheese had a 13% lower risk of dementia, while those who consumed high-fat cream had a 16% decreased risk. Additionally, individuals who included high-fat cheeses in their diets were found to have a lower prevalence of conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and stroke, and were less likely to use lipid-lowering medication.
Emily Sonestedt, a nutrition scientist at Lund University and one of the study’s authors, highlighted that consuming cheese, even high-fat varieties, as part of a balanced diet did not appear to have detrimental effects on brain health. She emphasised that moderation is key and that cheese should be consumed in reasonable amounts alongside other healthy lifestyle practices such as staying physically active, maintaining a healthy weight, and controlling blood pressure and blood sugar levels.
It is important to note that the study focused on a Swedish population, where cheese is typically consumed on its own rather than in combination with other foods as commonly seen in American diets. While cheese may offer potential brain-boosting benefits, experts caution that foods high in fat could have adverse effects on cholesterol levels and heart health if consumed excessively, underscoring the importance of a well-rounded and moderate approach to dietary choices.
In conclusion, the findings of this study provide encouraging insights into the potential benefits of high-fat cheese for brain health and its possible link to a reduced risk of dementia. While further research may be needed to confirm these associations, incorporating cheese as part of a balanced diet alongside other healthy practices could be a positive step towards maintaining brain health. So, cheese lovers, rejoice – that slice of cheddar or wedge of brie might just be doing your brain some good!