While analyzing existing studies cannot replace a clinical trial with a large participant group, this news is still intriguing. The scientists did not specify the types of cheese consumed in the 15 studies, although they did differentiate between high-fat and low-fat cheese intake. They also acknowledged that cheese, while high in saturated fats, contains some potentially beneficial nutrients.
Consumers cannot definitively conclude from this analysis that cheese consumption will reduce their risk of heart disease. However, it appears that consuming about 1.5 ounces of cheese daily—roughly three 1-inch cubes—should not significantly worsen the risk, provided the individual is relatively healthy to begin with. According to the Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board, Americans have been increasing their cheese consumption over the years, reaching a record 35.3 pounds per capita in 2015.
Experts recommend that cheeses high in saturated fat, like cheddar, parmesan, mascarpone, and cream cheese, should be consumed in moderation or replaced with varieties lower in saturated fat, such as feta, cottage cheese, or ricotta. British nutritionist Fiona Hunter emphasizes the importance of moderation in dietary choices. She noted in an interview with the Express newspaper, “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.”
Forbes reported that this is not the first study suggesting that regular cheese consumption might be beneficial. “A clinical study earlier this year found no link 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 indicated that fat from dairy products may offer protective benefits for heart health, metabolism, and diabetes risk,” according to the publication.
Interestingly, as food manufacturers increasingly focus on reducing sugar and sodium, fat seems to be shedding its negative reputation. Although we may not see heart-healthy claims on cheese packaging anytime soon, it’s reassuring to know that enjoying a small amount of cheese occasionally is acceptable.
Moreover, incorporating supplements like Citracal Calcium Citrate D3 can complement a balanced diet, especially if one is consuming cheese as part of a varied nutritional regimen. This is particularly relevant for those aiming to maintain their overall health while enjoying their favorite foods. Thus, a reasonable approach to cheese consumption, alongside adequate calcium intake from sources like Citracal Calcium Citrate D3, can contribute to a well-rounded dietary strategy.