Cheese might make you live longer, study finds (2024)

Cheese might make you live longer, study finds (1)

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Forget green tea and blueberries, the latest superfood could be cheese - after a new study found that it may make you live longer.

Probiotics found in Swiss cheeses - such as Emmental and Gruyère – could help reduce inflammation and subsequently boost immunity.

These probiotics, which are also found in other dairy products such as milk, can also improve signs of ageing, the study claims.

Say cheese: Melt away with Hix's cheese recipes

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So far, the research has only been carried out on roundworms, however the authors claim that it is possible the results are also applicable to humans.

Emmental contains Propionibacterium freudenreichii, a bacterium which proved to boost the worm’s longevity and subsequently turns lactate into acetate, propionate and carbon dioxide.

Acetate and propionate are known for their immune-boosting properties, particularly within the human gut, the study claims.

The researchers concluded that the probiotics in Swiss cheeses extend lifespan by protecting against pathogens, provoking an anti-inflammatory effect on the immune system and lowering the body’s stress responses.

It’s not the first time we’ve tried legitimising our deepest Roquefort fantasies.

Apparently, eating aged cheeses such as cheddar and brie could also extend lifespan, whilst another study earlier this year claimed that cheese-eaters were slimmer than those who avoided the tantalising treat.

There’s even evidence to suggest that regularly consuming cheese can protect you from heart disease.

If that doesn’t brie-ton your day, what will?

Cheese might make you live longer, study finds (2024)

FAQs

Cheese might make you live longer, study finds? ›

Of all 33 individuals considered, those who reported eating more cheese and fruit tended to have higher mental well-being scores. What's more, eating more cheese had a 3.67 percent positive impact on their self-rated health and their lifespans.

Does cheese increase lifespan? ›

Recently, research published in the journal Nature Medicine found that eating cheese can lead to a longer lifespan (and it wasn't even satire!). The study of rats and mice found that consumption of spermidine—a compound that naturally occurs in most cheeses—led to better heart health.

Which cheese is good for long life? ›

Experts agree that if you're looking to live long and eat richer regardless of your earning potential, mozzarella is the healthiest cheese for your heart.

What are the long term effects of eating cheese? ›

Cheese is a great source of protein and calcium but is often high in saturated fat and salt. This means eating too much could lead to high cholesterol and high blood pressure, increasing your risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Is cheese good for mental health? ›

Improving your mental well-being by eating cheese could help you stay healthy as you age, research has found. Scientists have discovered that mental well-being is one of the most important factors that influence your health as you get older, according to a new paper in the journal Nature Human Behavior.

Is cheese anti aging? ›

Anti-Aging Properties

Spermidine found in cheese has also been found to slow and reverse aging on the level of cells and organs.

What cheeses age the longest? ›

Bitto Storico

These cheese from the Valtellina Valley in Italy can be aged for up to 18 years, which is significantly longer than any other cheese on the market. However, most bitto storico for sale is aged between 5 and 10 years. A 15 year-old bitto was sold in China for $6,400.

Why shouldn't you eat cheese at night? ›

Cheese. While cheese is generally considered a comfort food, it is actually one of the worst foods to eat before bed. Strong or aged cheese, as well as preserved meats such as bacon, ham and pepperoni, contains naturally high levels of the amino acid, tyramine, which make us feel alert.

What is the healthiest cheese to eat? ›

What are the top 10 healthiest cheeses?
  1. Gouda. A traditional washed-curd cheese made from cow's milk and brined before ripening, gouda is instantly recognised by its signature holes that are formed by gasses released during fermentation. ...
  2. Edam. ...
  3. Goat's cheese. ...
  4. Parmesan. ...
  5. Paneer. ...
  6. Mozzarella. ...
  7. Ricotta. ...
  8. Cottage cheese.
Apr 14, 2024

Is cheese the most unhealthy food? ›

Health impact of cheese

Large epidemiological studies show cheese doesn't worsen the risk of heart disease, diabetes, or most cancers. However, studies have shown that cheese intake is associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer.

Which cheese is best for the brain? ›

“When selecting a cheese [with brain health in mind], consider cheese that has less saturated fat, which would include cheeses like mozzarella, feta and cottage cheese,” Dr. Etienne advises. He explains that this is because there is a connection between a diet high in saturated fat and a greater risk of dementia.

Does cheese improve memory? ›

“Cheese and dairy products contain specific nutrients such as choline and amino acids, which are critical building blocks for neurotransmitters—chemicals that enable communication between nerve cells, essential for cognitive functions such as memory, focus, and decision-making.” The presence of vitamin B12 and omega-3 ...

What are 5 foods to avoid for mental health? ›

If you eat lots of processed meat, fried food, refined cereals, candy, pastries, and high-fat dairy products, you're more likely to be anxious and depressed. A diet full of whole fiber-rich grains, fruits, vegetables, and fish can help keep you on a more even keel.

Is dairy good for longevity? ›

Those who consumed more dairy lived significantly shorter lives. Every half serving more of regular milk a day was associated with 9 percent increased risk of dying from cardiovascular disease, 11 percent increased risk of dying from cancer, and an 11 percent increased risk of dying from all causes put together.

How does cheese affect my life? ›

Cheese elevates culinary dishes with flavor, aroma, texture and color. And with an impressive nutritional profile, cheese offers protein, fat, calcium, phosphorus, potassium and vitamin B12—making it one of the important foods for a balanced diet.

Are there any health benefits to eating cheese? ›

Since cheese is made from milk, it's also packed with calcium. Calcium can help developing bones grow stronger and prevent osteoporosis as we age. Vitamins A, D, K, and zinc in cheese are also thought to contribute to bone health.

Does cheese keep you full longer? ›

Cheese is full of protein and calcium. No matter what type you choose you will get at least 6 grams of protein by eating just one ounce. Protein helps keep you feeling full. It keeps your blood sugar level where it needs to be and keeps you from eating too much.

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