A new scientific study has revealed interesting results regarding the effect of cheese on the brain. In a study involving nearly 8,000 people, it was found that those who ate cheese at least once a week had a 24 percent lower risk of dementia.
According to Milli.Az, the researchers followed the participants for 3 years. As a result, signs of dementia were observed in only 3.39 percent of those who ate cheese, compared to 4.45 percent among those who did not eat cheese.
Scientists also took into account other dietary habits such as fruits, vegetables, meat, and fish. Even when all these factors were evaluated, it was confirmed that cheese reduced the risk of memory loss by 21 percent.
The results of the study were published in the journal "Nutrients." Experts state that these results are consistent with previous studies and suggest that dairy products may play a supportive role in preventing dementia.
The most commonly consumed type of cheese among the participants was processed cheese.
These types of cheeses—usually sliced and packaged or spread in a cream form—are made from milk and emulsifiers.
According to scientists, the protective effect of cheese is associated with its rich nutritional content.
Cheese contains:
Proteins,
Essential amino acids,
Vitamin K2,
Antioxidants,
Peptides, and
Probiotics.
These substances protect neurons from damage and support the "care of nerve cells" process in the brain.
Especially vitamin K2 protects vascular health and helps regulate calcium balance in the blood.
Previous studies have shown that high cholesterol and cardiovascular diseases can increase the risk of dementia.
In a study conducted in 2015, it was proven that vitamin K2 reduces calcium levels in the blood, which can lower the risk of heart disease.
At the same time, antioxidants, peptides, and probiotics are also associated with a reduced risk of dementia.
However, scientists note that broader studies are needed for definitive results.
Dementia is currently recorded as the leading cause of death in the United Kingdom.
At present, more than 944,000 people in the country live with this disease, characterized by memory loss and cognitive decline. In the United States, this number reaches approximately 7 million people.
Although dementia cannot be completely cured, treatment in the early stages can ease symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.
According to the Alzheimer's Society, dementia imposes an annual economic burden of 42 billion pounds sterling on the UK. Due to the aging population, this figure is expected to reach 90 billion pounds sterling by 2039.
According to Alzheimer's Research UK, 69,178 people died from dementia in 2022 alone, making the disease the country’s number one cause of death.
