High-fat cheese reduces the risk of dementia: findings from a 25-year study.

According to ТСН: Swedish researchers have found an interesting link between regular consumption of high-fat cheese and a reduced risk of developing dementia. The results of the long-term study showed that people who consumed at least 50 grams of cheese with a fat content over 20% daily faced cognitive impairments less frequently in old age.

The study lasted about 25 years and covered 27,670 adult residents of Sweden. During this period, dementia was diagnosed in 3,208 participants. The analysis showed that among those who regularly consumed high-fat cheeses such as Brie, Gouda, Cheddar, Parmesan, Gruyere, or Mozzarella, dementia developed in approximately 10% of cases. In comparison, among those who ate less than 15 grams of cheese a day, this figure was almost 13%.

Study conclusions

Scientists, taking into account age, sex, education level, and overall diet, concluded that high consumption of high-fat cheese reduces the risk of dementia by 13%. At the same time, a similar effect was not observed for low-fat cheeses, milk, yogurt, kefir, and cream. Regarding butter, the data turned out to be ambiguous—its excessive consumption may even increase the risk of Alzheimer's disease.

The researchers note that the results contradict established beliefs about the harm of high-fat dairy products to brain health, although the mechanisms of this connection still require further investigation.

Study limitations

Experts warn against drawing hasty conclusions. One of the main issues is that the dietary habits of participants were recorded only at the beginning of the study, while over a quarter of a century their diet and lifestyle may have changed significantly. Specialists emphasize that relying solely on one product as a preventive measure against dementia is unwise, as overall lifestyle and balanced nutrition play a crucial role.

It should be noted that cardiologist Sana Sadoksai mentioned that one morning ritual can increase the risk of a heart attack.

These results may change the perception of high-fat dairy consumption, but experts urge caution in interpreting the data. It is essential to consider that health depends on many factors, and cheese alone cannot be considered a panacea. The study encourages further examination of the impact of nutrition on cognitive health, but balance in diet remains a key element.