While analyzing existing research is not equivalent to conducting a clinical trial with a large participant pool, the findings presented are still intriguing. The scientists did not specify the types of cheeses involved in the 15 studies, although they did differentiate between high-fat and low-fat cheese consumption. They acknowledged that while cheese is high in saturated fats, it also contains certain potentially beneficial nutrients.
Consumers cannot definitively conclude that cheese consumption will reduce their risk of heart disease; however, it appears that consuming cheese at a rate of 1.5 ounces per day — roughly three 1-inch cubes — is unlikely to increase the risk, provided the individual is generally healthy. According to the Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board, Americans have been increasing their cheese intake over recent years, reaching a record 35.3 pounds per capita in 2015.
Experts recommend that cheeses high in saturated fat, such as cheddar, parmesan, mascarpone, and cream cheese, should be consumed in moderation or replaced with lower-fat options like feta, cottage cheese, or ricotta. British nutritionist Fiona Hunter emphasizes the importance of 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 fat,” she stated in an interview with the Express newspaper.
Forbes reported that this is not the first study to suggest that regular, moderate cheese consumption may be beneficial. “A clinical study earlier this year found no connection between regular or low-fat cheese and heart disease; there even appeared to be a slight association between regular-fat cheese and improved HDL cholesterol levels. Previous meta-analyses have suggested that fat from dairy products may offer protective benefits for heart health, metabolism, and diabetes risk,” as noted by the publication.
As the focus of food manufacturers shifts towards reducing sugar and sodium, fat is gradually shedding its negative reputation. Although we may not see heart-healthy claims on cheese labels anytime soon, it’s reassuring to know that enjoying a little cheese now and then is perfectly acceptable.
Moreover, for those concerned about kidney health, the question arises: is calcium citrate good for kidney stones? Considering the potential benefits of certain cheeses in providing calcium, it may be worth exploring how moderate cheese consumption could impact kidney stone risk. It’s important to remember that while cheese can be part of a balanced diet, individuals should consult healthcare professionals about specific dietary concerns, including the role of calcium citrate in kidney stone prevention.