London: Finally, some good news for all cheese lovers! A new Irish study has revealed that people who consume more high fat dairy products may have lower body mass index and also reduced cholesterol levels. So, if this latest research is to be believed, you don’t really have to eliminate cheese from your weight loss diet. The study was published in the journal Nutrition and Diabetes.
Cheese is, in fact, rich in protein which can help in keeping you full for longer and prevent unwanted cravings. But its calorie content is has always been questionable. However, an analysis of individual dairy foods done by researchers from the University College Dublin in Ireland showed that cheese consumption was not associated with increased body fat or with LDL cholesterol.
Experts examined the impact of dairy foods such as milk, cheese, yogurt, cream and butter on markers of body fat and health in about 1,500 people aged between 18 and 90 years. Interestingly, they found that higher dairy intake was associated with lower body mass index, lower percentage of body fat, lower waist size and even lower blood pressure.
On the other hand, people who consumed low-fat milk and yogurt were found to eat more carbohydrates through the day and thus, have higher levels of LDL or the bad cholesterol. “We have to consider not just the nutrients themselves but also the matrix in which we are eating them in and what the overall dietary pattern is, so not just about the food then, but the pattern of other foods we eat with them as well,” said Dr. Emma Feeney of University College Dublin.
A lot of other studies indicate that eating cheese is alright if you are trying to lose weight as long as you are mindful about the portions. Also, check the labels for the sodium content. Opt for Feta, Fresh Ricotta or a small sprinkle of Parmesan – these can be healthier alternatives to the packaged sauces or dressings you use for sandwiches and salads.
