How Good Is Blue Cheese For You: A Nutritionist’s Honest Assessment
What To Know
- Blue cheese is a good source of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), a fatty acid linked to improved heart health.
- Its high calcium content, probiotics, and potential anti-inflammatory properties make it a valuable addition to a balanced diet.
- The mold in blue cheese is a different species than the mold used to make penicillin.
Blue cheese, with its distinctive veins of blue-green mold, has long been a beloved culinary delicacy. But beyond its unique flavor, recent research has shed light on the potential health benefits of this pungent cheese. This article will delve into the nutritional value of blue cheese and explore how it can contribute to your overall well-being.
Nutritional Profile
Per 100 grams, blue cheese contains:
- Calories: 353
- Fat: 29 grams
- Protein: 21 grams
- Carbohydrates: 2 grams
- Calcium: 520 mg (52% of the Daily Value)
- Phosphorus: 380 mg (38% of the Daily Value)
- Vitamin B2: 0.17 mg (10% of the Daily Value)
- Vitamin B12: 1.5 mcg (25% of the Daily Value)
Heart Health
Blue cheese is a good source of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), a fatty acid linked to improved heart health. CLA has been shown to reduce inflammation, lower cholesterol levels, and improve insulin sensitivity.
Bone Health
The high calcium content in blue cheese makes it an excellent choice for promoting bone health. Calcium is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth and can help prevent osteoporosis.
Immune Function
Blue cheese contains probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that support a healthy immune system. Probiotics help regulate the gut microbiome, which is essential for maintaining overall health and well-being.
Blood Pressure Regulation
Some studies suggest that blue cheese may contain compounds that can help lower blood pressure. These compounds may inhibit the production of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), an enzyme that constricts blood vessels.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
The mold that gives blue cheese its distinctive color contains compounds with anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds may help reduce inflammation throughout the body, which can be beneficial for conditions like arthritis and asthma.
Other Potential Benefits
In addition to the above benefits, blue cheese may also:
- Improve cognitive function
- Support skin health
- Boost metabolism
- Promote sleep
Considerations
While blue cheese offers potential health benefits, it’s important to consume it in moderation due to its high fat and calorie content. Additionally, people with weakened immune systems or pregnant women should avoid blue cheese due to the risk of contamination with harmful bacteria.
Takeaways: The Blue Wonder
Blue cheese, with its complex flavor and surprising health benefits, is a culinary delight that can contribute to your overall well-being. Its high calcium content, probiotics, and potential anti-inflammatory properties make it a valuable addition to a balanced diet. Enjoy blue cheese in moderation and savor its unique flavor while reaping its potential health rewards.
What People Want to Know
Q: Is blue cheese safe to eat?
A: Yes, blue cheese is safe to eat for most people. However, it should be avoided by people with weakened immune systems or pregnant women.
Q: How much blue cheese should I eat?
A: Blue cheese should be consumed in moderation due to its high fat and calorie content. A serving of 1-2 ounces per week is generally considered safe.
Q: Can blue cheese help me lose weight?
A: No, blue cheese is not a good choice for weight loss due to its high calorie content.
Q: Does blue cheese contain lactose?
A: Yes, blue cheese contains lactose. However, it is a low-lactose cheese compared to other types of cheese.
Q: Can I eat blue cheese if I am allergic to penicillin?
A: Yes, you can eat blue cheese if you are allergic to penicillin. The mold in blue cheese is a different species than the mold used to make penicillin.