In a world obsessed with health and fitness, keto diets and slow carb plans, one of the last things you might expect to hear is that cheese is good for you. Over the years, cheese has gotten a bad rap from people looking to lose weight and reduce body fat, and although we secretly love its creamy goodness, any indulgence of cheese is now done in secret, as we don’t necessarily want others to know that we can’t get enough.
What if you were to learn that cheese is now hailed as a superfood, particularly for anti-aging? Read on to see how you can bring your closet obsession to light once more, and eat it with pride.
Health benefit #1: It improves gut health
Your gut health and the health of your microbiome play a vital role in your total health and wellness. The health of your gut regulates the strength and vitality of your immune system; eating a serving or two of creamy mozzarella helps to balance gut flora, helping to safeguard your health.
Health benefit #2: It helps to improve bone health
Calcium-rich gouda and blue are great additions for your diet in that they improve bone density. This is of particular importance as we age, when bones begin to lose density and become brittle, leaving us more susceptible to injury. Sprinkle a bit on a salad, or slice up some gouda and eat it with a delicious roasted pear for a decadent dessert.
Health benefit #3: It can help reduce body fat!
How can something that is so fat-concentrated help you to lose body fat? Feta is rich in conjugated linoleic acid, which is a compound that naturally helps to speed up the metabolism and burn fat more effectively. If you are a Greek food fan, you’re golden; sprinkle it on salads, lamb patties or a delicious roasted tomato for fat-burning success.
Health benefit #4: It is high in protein
Cheeses like cottage cheese are very high in protein, which can help you to feel full and aid in weight loss. A simple serving of this creamy goodness contains 25 grams of protein, and it is relatively low in fat, so consuming it on a regular basis will help you achieve your weight loss goals.
Health benefit #5: It has anti-aging benefits!
Our dreams have come true! Consuming or applying a little Cheshire to your skin will result in fewer wrinkles and a healthy, youthful glow. Essential fatty acids present in this delicious cheese also help to plump up skin and improve your complexion.
Health benefit #6: It supplies the body with essential amino acids
Protein-rich ricotta supplies all of the essential amino acids that the body needs as vital protein building blocks. This power-packed creamy delight helps to promote muscle growth and lower blood pressure, in addition to adding depth of flavor and goodness to all types of Italian dishes.
Health benefit #7: It increases vitamin K levels in the body
Chomping down on some cheddar gives you access to heart-healthy vitamin K, known for its ability to reduce ACE inhibitor activity in the brain and keep blood pressure low and blood vessels clear of calcium buildup. Cuddle up with some cheese and crackers, throw a slice on some apple pie or add a cheeseburger to your plate for anti-aging goodness and powerful flavors.
No more excuses!
As if we needed another excuse to approach the Brie and crackers at the next social gathering; cheese is heavily laden with a compound called spermidine, which contributes to a longer lifespan. Perhaps all of those Italians are right—a decadent diet rich in delicious cheese is good for the soul and the body. Bon appetit!