More Reasons to Love Cheese

How to get the healthy benefits of a dairy favorite

From the LifeMinute.TV Team

January 20, 2022

Everything in moderation is a principle to live by, especially when it comes to cheese. Many people may think cheese is unhealthy, but there are benefits to eating a few servings daily. In honor of National Cheese Lover's Day on January 20th, here are some healthy reasons to chow down on your favorite piece of cheese.

May Cut Your Risk of Heart Disease
A study focusing on why people who have high saturated fat consumption but low incidence of cardiovascular disease, known as the French paradox, found eating nearly 2 ounces of cheese daily was associated with an 18% lower risk of heart disease. The study also showed eating as little as 1/2 ounce of cheese a day could cut stroke risk by 13%. An explanation for this phenomenon may be due to minerals like calcium, potassium, and magnesium and vitamins like riboflavin and B12 found in cheese.

Can Lower Your Risk of Type 2 Diabetes
A meta-analysis published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found eating 1 3/4 ounces of cheese a day may lower your risk of developing type 2 diabetes by 8%. Cheese can also help maintain healthy glucose levels. That's because most cheeses contain little or no carbohydrates, rating very low on the glycemic index scale. Meaning, cheese shouldn't cause a significant spike in blood sugar.

Builds Strong Bones
To maintain bone health, get your recommended daily calcium. For adults aged 19 to 50, the recommended daily amount is 1,000 mg. One ounce of cheddar cheese has about 202 mg of calcium, so it can help you reach your daily dose.

Protects Teeth
A study by dental professionals showed that eating cheese may protect teeth against cavities. In the study, higher pH levels were found in the mouth of participants eating dairy. A higher pH level protects teeth from acid erosion which can wear away enamel.

Aids Weight Loss
Though cheese is high in fat, it is also high in protein. Consuming protein can increase muscle growth and boost metabolism. Some of the best types of cheese for weight loss include mozzarella, feta, ricotta, and cottage cheese.