While analyzing existing studies is not equivalent to conducting a large-scale clinical trial, this information is still intriguing. The researchers did not specify the types of cheeses included in the 15 studies, although they did distinguish between high-fat and low-fat cheese consumption. They acknowledged that cheese has a high percentage of saturated fats but also contains some potentially beneficial nutrients. From this analysis, consumers cannot reasonably conclude that eating cheese will reduce their risk of heart disease. However, it appears that consuming 1.5 ounces of cheese daily—about three 1-inch cubes—does not significantly increase this risk for individuals who are generally healthy.
According to statistics from the Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board, Americans have been consuming more cheese in recent years, reaching a record average of 35.3 pounds per person in 2015. Experts recommend limiting intake of cheeses high in saturated fat, such as cheddar, parmesan, mascarpone, and cream cheese, or substituting them with varieties that have lower saturated fat content, like feta, cottage cheese, or ricotta. British nutritionist Fiona Hunter emphasizes moderation in dietary choices. “Remember, however, that you shouldn’t categorize foods as ‘good’ or ‘bad.’ Just because cheese is high in saturated fat doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy it occasionally, especially if the rest of your diet is low in saturated fats,” she told the Express newspaper.
Forbes has reported that this is not the first study to imply that moderate cheese consumption may be beneficial. A clinical study conducted earlier this year found no connection between regular or low-fat cheese and heart disease; in fact, there appeared to be a slight link between regular-fat cheese and improved HDL cholesterol levels. Previous meta-analyses have suggested that fat from dairy products could have protective effects on heart health, metabolism, and diabetes risk.
As the focus shifts for food manufacturers towards reducing sugar and sodium, fat seems to be shedding its negative image. While we may not see heart-healthy claims on cheese packaging anytime soon, it’s reassuring to know that indulging in a little cheese occasionally is perfectly acceptable. Moreover, for those looking to enhance their nutritional intake, considering the best chewable calcium citrate supplement can also be a smart addition to a balanced diet, especially for individuals who may not consume enough dairy. In summary, enjoying cheese in moderation, along with the best chewable calcium citrate supplement, can contribute positively to a healthy lifestyle without undue concern about heart disease.