Could Eating Cheese Lead to a Longer Life?

Cheese may no longer be a guilty pleasure. New information is dispelling the myth that foods high in milk fat are responsible for obesity and high cholesterol levels. What was once considered a solely “bad” fat may contain compounds that can protect against obesity, cardiovascular disease and diabetes. In fact, it looks like making foods like cheese a regular part of your diet could even help you live a longer life.

Fat Phobia Fad

We’ve been conditioned to believe that FAT is an enemy, especially when it comes from animal protein or milk. Past research has shown diets high in saturated fats could lead to high LDL (or “bad”) cholesterol levels. However, studies are showing milk fat is far more complicated than we realized, with “good” and “bad” components that can counteract one another. In fact, newer research is showing that certain compounds in dairy products like cheese could protect against liver cancer and certain age-related ailments, including high cholesterol.

A Closer Look at Polyamines

Polyamines are nutrients the body uses to maintain metabolic, cardiovascular and kidney health. Spermidine, a polyamine found in butter and cheese, has been studied recently for its apparent life-extending properties. One study showed mice supplemented with spermidine in adulthood saw their lifespans extended by about 10%. Mice given spermidine supplements as pups lived even longer-- up to 25% longer. This means the earlier the supplementation begins, the better it works.

Another study showed spermidine could improve metabolic and cardiac health, while also reducing possible precursors to insulin resistance and diabetes. Spermidine is also a “calorie restriction memetic,” which means it can trigger weight loss and reduce bad cholesterol. Other compounds in cheese and butter, such as the fatty acid butyrate, may offer similar health benefits.

Balancing the Fats

This all may be cause for celebration, but it doesn’t mean you should throw all conventional wisdom out the window just yet. Too much of any fat can leave you with more calories than even a boosted metabolism knows to do with, so be mindful of your consumption regardless of the source. Also, make sure to reserve most of your fat consumption for the essential fatty acids (“good” fats found in fish and many vegetable oils) your body needs for healthy functioning.

Go ahead, enjoy some cheese and cook with a little butter when the recipe calls for it-- your body could use the spermidine. Remember, balance is the key. A healthy variety in your fats may just lead to a healthier you.

Here’s to Your Health and Wellness