Well, not anymore!
If you’re a lover of cheese like I am, then I have some great news for you. Daily consumption of cheese (40 grams or 1.41 ounces) may cut your risk of heart disease and stroke, according to research findings. If that doesn’t have you asking your friend to pass the cheddar, then I don’t know what will.
The study examined 15 studies that looked at the effects of cheese on cardiovascular disease.
Cheese has often been frowned upon, as it can raise cholesterol levels, which contribute to heart-related problems. But the latest findings suggest that cheese has quite the opposite effect on cardiovascular disease.
Cheese intake was monitored in over 200,000 participants for over 10 years. The majority of the participants did not have heart disease at the start of the study.
The researchers found that those who regularly consumed cheese had up to an 18 percent lower risk of developing cardiovascular disease and were 10 percent more likely to suffer a stroke. These effects were strongest among those who consumed 40 grams, or 1.41 ounces, of cheese a day.
If you’re a cheese lover, then you may be rejoicing and heading out to buy all your favorites, but this was an observational study that does come with some limitations. The study did not prove that cheese consumption leads to a healthier heart, but it uncovered an association.
Cheese is still high in saturated fat, too, so you still need some caution and limitations when it comes to cheese consumption. Enjoy cheese in moderation and try to stick to the 40 grams mark. Eating more cheese won’t make your heart any healthier.
The American Heart Association recommends that only five to six percent of your calories should come from saturated fat, and choosing low-fat dairy products can help you stay within these recommendations.
Related: 8 unhealthy foods that are surprisingly good for you