Cheese. One of the few food items that are universally beloved by people that also have equal health benefits. From calcium to Vitamin B12, cheese can be considered an epitome of nutrition, given its availability of several nutrients to the human body. Cheese is a whole food, meaning, the food has been subjected to little to no processing and it is close to its original form.
In addition to all the pros and nutritional value, cheese is a tasty food liked by most people around the world. The dairy product has almost become a staple in many households. But does one experience the harmful effects of cheese after consuming it everyday? Read along to find out about cheese benefits and disadvantages.
Positive effects of eating cheese everyday
Its nutritional value
Protein, calcium, and other necessary vitamins and minerals can be found in cheese. Its value contributes to a person’s balanced diet effectively. The nutritional value of cheese can vary based on the type of cheese. Hard cheeses like cheddar and parmesan tend to be higher in fat and protein. Soft cheeses like feta and brie tend to be lower in fat and higher in calcium.
Strengthens bones and teeth
Calcium, which is necessary for healthy bones and teeth, is present in cheese in good amounts. Consuming a serving of cheese everyday can help to meet your calcium needs and reduce the risk of osteoporosis or other bone-related conditions.
Aids in muscle repair and growth
The protein content present in cheese aids in muscle repair and its growth. Consuming cheese every day can help to meet your daily protein needs and support muscle recovery after exercise.
Reduces inflammation and risk of heart disease
The healthy fats present in cheese, such as omega-3 fatty acids, help to reduce inflammation and lower the risk of heart disease. One can consume cheese in moderate amounts to reduce the risk of health conditions related to inflammation and heart.
Negative effects of eating cheese everyday
Despite the pros of having cheese, overeating the dairy product can also lead to some cons.
Risk of getting high cholesterol
Cheese has high amounts of saturated fat, contributing to high cholesterol levels and increasing the risk of heart disease. It is one of the harmful effects of cheese if one consumes it in excess.
Increase in weight
The high-calorie content of cheese can lead to various conditions, including weight gain. This becomes a possibility if a person does not have a controlled diet. It is one of the side effects of eating cheese everyday as it can increase one’s calorie intake more than your body requires, leading to weight gain.
Beware if you are lactose intolerant
Cheese is one of the very few dairy products lactose intolerant people can consume but it is important to take note of the lactose level in the product before consuming it. Lactose is a sugar found in milk, and if you’re lactose intolerant, you may experience symptoms like bloating, gas, and diarrhea after eating cheese. Make sure to check the age of the cheese before consuming it. Older cheeses naturally have less lactose content, according to the Journal of Translational Medicine.
High sodium intake
Some cheese varieties have high sodium content, so consuming it on a regular basis can increase blood pressure in some cases. The sodium content in cheese can vary depending on the type of cheese and the way it is produced.
Hard cheeses, such as cheddar and parmesan, tend to have a higher sodium content when compared to soft cheeses like feta. Processed cheese products also tend to have more sodium than natural cheeses. So, it is important to check the nutrition labels when purchasing cheese to determine the sodium content before consuming.
Hope the blog on cheese benefits and disadvantages was helpful and informative. This would help you focus on your cheese consumption levels.
