A comprehensive long-term study from Sweden has revealed a potential association between the consumption of full-fat cheese and cream and a reduced risk of developing dementia among middle-aged and older adults. The study, which tracked 27,670 participants over 25 years, found that those without a genetic predisposition to Alzheimer’s disease who consumed more than 50 grams of full-fat cheese daily exhibited a 13%–17% lower risk of dementia. Similarly, individuals consuming more than 20 grams of full-fat cream daily demonstrated a 16%–24% lower risk. However, no significant links were identified for low-fat or high-fat milk.
These findings challenge traditional dietary guidance that has advocated for low-fat dairy options to protect heart health. Researchers note that cardiovascular disease and dementia share several risk factors, including obesity and high blood pressure. While some prior studies have linked cheese consumption to lower heart disease risk, results concerning brain health have been inconsistent.
Mixed results among different populations raise questions about the reliability of these findings. For instance, while some Asian studies indicate benefits of dairy for cognitive health, many European studies do not report similar outcomes. Additionally, the Swedish researchers took precautions to ensure that early dementia symptoms did not skew results by excluding participants who had already developed dementia or who showed early signs during the initial years of the study.
Ultimately, while full-fat cheese does contain nutrients beneficial to brain health, the evidence does not support excessive consumption as a protective measure against dementia or heart disease. Researchers emphasize the importance of a balanced diet and overall lifestyle, suggesting that dietary patterns, rather than individual foods, are key to cognitive health.