Cheese is one of the most popular gastronomic products in our country, which boasts enormous diversity adn several specific geographical areas wiht internationally renowned designations of origin. It also appears in most of the recommendations for a healthy diet.
However, as is often the case, the key to making the most of the benefits that cheese can bring to our health is moderation. Cheese has interesting nutritional propertiesbut it can also contribute to consuming excesses of harmful components such as saturated fats.
Contradictory effects
As explained in an article published in the media The Harvard Journal (by Harvard University in the United States) Harvard Chan School nutritionist Walter C. Willett, in a certain sense cheese it’s in the middle of the spectrum in terms of benefits for our health.
On the one hand it is true that this is the case a high nutritional valueincluding a high concentration of calcium (although, the expert warns, recommendations for calcium consumption tend to be excessive), proteins, phosphorus and vitamins A and B12. Conversely, however, the School also stands out TH Chan of Harvardcontains a high amount of saturated fat and cholesterol (as happens with other dairy products) and also, in many cases, sodium.
Actually,the precise impact of cheese on health continues to be debated. Such as,the media cites,there are studies that suggest that fats present in cheese it may have a less harmful affect compared to those present in other foods of animal origin such as red meat,perhaps also thanks to the bacteria involved in the processing of cheese. This theory, though, is not yet supported by a large body of evidence and might potentially be limited to some cheeses made with probiotic elements.
The keys to including cheese in our diet
Be that as it may, in general there is consensus on two issues: on the one hand that consuming cheese can be healthy when it is moderate and which (especially in lower fat versions) represents a preferable alternative to other sources of animal protein such as red meat. in this latter sense, the American institute highlights that it has been shown that replacing a certain amount of red meat with low-fat cheese every day is associated with a modest reduction in the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as stroke or heart attack.
Conversely, experts point out that we must also consider the rest of the foods that accompany the intake of cheese when analyzing its impact on our health. It’s not the same to eat a lot of cheese on pizza or burgers, alone or with fruit and nuts. Taking this into account, we remember that cheese can be part of a healthy diet, but preferably in moderate quantities and as a substitute for less healthy foods.
we must not forget that dairy production has a meaningful ecological cost in terms of spending on natural resources, surface and water needs and greenhouse gas emissions, which represents just one more reason to contain its consumption.
References
Walter C. Willett. is cheese bad for you? The harvard Journal (2024). Consulted online at on November 19, 2024.
harvard TH Chan School of Public Health – The source of nutrition. Cheese. Consulted online at on November 19, 2024.
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How can you incorporate cheese into a balanced eating plan?
interview Between Time.news Editor and Cheese Expert
Editor: Welcome to Time.news! Today, we’re diving into a delicious topic that many people cherish: cheese. we have with us Dr. Clara Brousseau, a nutritionist and cheese expert, to discuss the health benefits and moderation of this beloved food. Clara, thank you for joining us!
Dr. Brousseau: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to share insights about cheese.
Editor: Cheese is certainly a staple in many diets around the world. Can you tell us a bit about its various forms and why it is so beloved?
Dr. brousseau: Absolutely! Cheese comes in an incredible variety—from creamy bries to sharp cheddars, and everything in between.Many regions have their own unique cheeses that have international recognition for their quality, like Parmigiano-Reggiano from Italy and Roquefort from France.This diversity allows us to enjoy different flavors and textures, making cheese not only versatile in cooking but also a delightful treat.
Editor: that sounds tempting! We frequently enough hear that cheese can be part of a healthy diet. What are some of its nutritional benefits?
Dr. Brousseau: Cheese is packed with nutrients. It’s a great source of calcium, which is essential for bone health, and it also provides good amounts of protein, vitamins such as A and B12, and beneficial fats. Moreover, certain cheeses have probiotics that can support gut health.
editor: With all those benefits,it sounds like cheese is a superfood! But I’ve also read that moderation is key. Could you elaborate on that?
Dr. Brousseau: Yes, moderation is crucial. While cheese has splendid nutritional properties, it can also be high in saturated fats and sodium. Overconsumption may lead to health issues like cardiovascular disease or high blood pressure. It’s significant to enjoy cheese as part of a balanced diet, ensuring we’re getting a variety of nutrients from different sources.
Editor: That’s a good point. Do you have any tips for incorporating cheese into a healthy eating plan without going overboard?
Dr. Brousseau: Certainly! Start by choosing cheeses that are lower in fat, like mozzarella or feta, and use them sparingly as toppings or flavor enhancers. Pair cheese with healthy foods like fruits,nuts,and whole grain crackers to add nutritional value and satisfaction. Also, consider portion control—cheese is rich, so a little can go a long way.
Editor: Those are great suggestions. Clara, with the increasing popularity of plant-based diets, what’s your take on vegan cheeses?
Dr. Brousseau: Vegan cheeses can be a great choice for those avoiding dairy, and some are made with nutritious ingredients like nuts and seeds. Though, their nutritional profiles vary widely, and many can be overly processed. So, if someone is considering vegan cheese, I recommend checking the ingredient list and opting for those that are less processed and still resemble the beneficial components of dairy cheese.
Editor: Thank you, Clara! This has been a captivating discussion about cheese, its benefits, and the importance of moderation. It seems like we can all enjoy this delicious food while keeping our health in check.
Dr. Brousseau: Thank you for having me! Remember,it’s all about balance—cheese can be a delicious and nutritious part of our diet when enjoyed in the right amounts.
editor: well said! That wraps up today’s interview. Thank you to our readers for tuning in, and next time you enjoy cheese, remember to savor it in moderation.