Swedish Experts Reveal the Role of Full-Fat Cheese in Reducing the Risk of Dementia

The results of a study conducted by a team of researchers in Sweden have revealed a positive association between the consumption of full-fat dairy products—particularly cheese and cream—and improved brain health through a reduced risk of developing dementia.

According to the website Medical Express, the researchers based their conclusions on the analysis of extensive data involving 27,670 individuals in Sweden, with an average age of around 58 years, who were closely followed for a period of 25 years.

During the study period, 3,208 participants were diagnosed with dementia. The assessment relied on weekly dietary records as well as surveys on consumption habits and food preparation methods.

Statistical comparisons showed that individuals who consumed 50 grams or more per day of full-fat cheese containing over 20% fat had a dementia rate of 10%, compared with 13% among those who consumed less than 15 grams per day.

After adjusting for influencing factors such as age, sex, and education level, the study concluded that high cheese consumption reduces the overall risk of dementia by 13%.

Regarding specific types of cognitive disorders, the study found a notable 29% reduction in the risk of vascular dementia among high cheese consumers. A lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease was also observed, provided that individuals did not carry the genetic variant “APOE e4,” which is genetically associated with the disease.

As for full-fat cream, with a fat content ranging between 30% and 40%, the results showed that consuming 20 grams or more per day contributes to a 16% reduction in the risk of dementia, compared with individuals who do not include it in their diet.