What's Happening?
A Swedish study has found that higher consumption of full-fat cheese and cream is linked to a lower risk of developing dementia. The research tracked 27,670 individuals over 25 years, revealing that those consuming more than 50 grams of full-fat cheese daily
had a 13%-17% lower risk of Alzheimer's, particularly among those without genetic risk factors. Similarly, higher intake of full-fat cream was associated with a 16%-24% reduced risk of dementia. However, the study emphasizes that these findings should be interpreted cautiously, as they may reflect healthier overall dietary patterns rather than the effects of dairy alone. The research suggests that balanced diets and lifestyle factors play a more significant role in cognitive health than individual food items.
Why It's Important?
This study challenges traditional dietary advice that promotes low-fat dairy to reduce cardiovascular risk, which shares risk factors with dementia. The findings could influence dietary guidelines and public health recommendations, encouraging a focus on overall dietary patterns rather than specific food items. The research highlights the importance of considering lifestyle context in dietary studies, as higher cheese intake was associated with healthier lifestyles, including lower rates of heart disease and diabetes. This underscores the need for comprehensive dietary approaches to support cognitive health and prevent dementia.
