While an analysis of existing studies is not equivalent to conducting a clinical trial with a large participant pool, the findings are still intriguing. The scientists did not specify the types of cheeses consumed across the 15 different studies, though they did differentiate between high-fat and low-fat cheese intake. They acknowledged that while cheese is high in saturated fats, it also contains some potentially beneficial nutrients. Consumers cannot reasonably deduce from this analysis that cheese consumption will reduce their risk of heart disease; however, it appears that eating cheese at a rate of 1.5 ounces daily—approximately three 1-inch cubes—should not significantly increase 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, reaching a record 35.3 pounds per capita in 2015.
Experts recommend that cheeses high in saturated fat—such as cheddar, parmesan, mascarpone, and cream cheese—should be consumed in moderation or replaced with lower-fat options like feta, cottage cheese, or ricotta. British nutritionist Fiona Hunter emphasizes the importance of moderation in dietary choices. “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,” she stated in an interview with the Express newspaper.
Forbes highlighted that this is not the first study suggesting that regular cheese consumption may be beneficial. A clinical study earlier this year found no link between regular or low-fat cheese and heart disease; in fact, there seemed to be a slight association between regular-fat cheese and improved HDL cholesterol levels. Previous meta-analyses have indicated that fat from dairy products might have a protective effect on heart health, metabolism, and diabetes risk.
As the negative perception of fat declines—while reducing sugar and sodium gains more attention from food manufacturers—it’s reassuring to know that a small amount of cheese can be considered an acceptable treat from time to time. Furthermore, for those seeking to maintain balanced nutrition, incorporating a women’s multivitamin with calcium citrate can complement a diet that includes cheese, helping to ensure adequate nutrient intake. In conclusion, while moderation is key, cheese can certainly fit into a healthy lifestyle, especially when paired with a comprehensive approach to nutrition that includes supplements like a women’s multivitamin with calcium citrate.