A new scientific study suggests that eating high-fat cheeses such as cheddar, brie, or gouda may be linked to a lower risk of developing dementia later in life, challenging the long held belief that full-fat dairy products are always harmful.
The research, published in the journal Neurology, analyzed data from 27,670 Swedish adults over a 25 year period. The findings showed that people who consumed at least 50 grams of high-fat cheese per day had a 13% lower risk of dementia compared with those who consumed less. In addition, the risk of vascular dementia was reduced by 29%, while individuals who consumed high-fat cream also showed a 16% lower risk.
It is important to note that the study does not prove a cause and effect relationship, but rather an association between certain dairy products and potential cognitive benefits. Notably, other dairy foods such as yogurt or low-fat cheeses did not show the same effect.
Does this mean you should start eating cheese every day to protect your brain?
The answer is not necessarily. While the results are promising, researchers stress that this is an observational link, not a guarantee, and that further studies are needed to confirm these findings.
