Gouda cheese: 6 health benefits

There’s something magical about cheese that makes it impossible to say no to. In addition to adding flavour and a whole new dimension to your cuisine, it also offers health benefits. Yes, you heard that right! One such type of cheese is Gouda cheese, which is known for its unique taste and health benefits. It originated in the Netherlands and is made from whole cow milk, aged from 1 to 20 months. The texture and flavour of this type of cheese depend on its age. The older the cheese, the harder and crumblier it becomes, which has a sweet, nutty flavour. Conversely, younger Gouda cheese has a smooth texture and a milky flavour. Here are the health benefits of gouda cheese and how you can incorporate it into your diet.

What are the health benefits of gouda cheese?

Here are some of the notable benefits of adding gouda cheese to your diet, as explained by the Nutritionist Dr Priyanka Rohtagi.

1. Good for bone health

To keep bones healthy, calcium is a necessary mineral. Gouda cheese helps build and strengthen bones since it contains a lot of calcium. According to a study published in the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Disease journal, a lack of calcium and vitamin D causes a decline in bone health in lactose-intolerant people. Plus, eating low-fat dairy products can assist in supplying calcium and vitamin D, which can build bones and stave off osteoporosis. In addition to offering adequate calcium, this type of cheese promotes dental health.

2. Promotes heart health

Gouda cheese has a lot of saturated fat, but it also has a variety of other nutrients, such as protein, calcium, and vitamin D, that may promote heart health. Though there is some evidence that full-fat dairy foods, such as gouda cheese, may not be as hazardous for your heart, more research is required to confirm this. For instance, according to a study published in Frontier’s journal, consuming dairy fat has been linked to a decreased risk of cardiovascular disease. However, scientists also agree that further study is necessary to fully comprehend the heart-healthy benefits of full-fat dairy products.

3. Helps manage weight

It is often included in low-carb diets. This full-fat dairy product aids in weight management by keeping you full and deterring you from eating more. Plus, protein digests slowly, keeping you fuller for longer and enabling you to eat fewer calories, which makes it essential for weight loss.

4. Rich in antioxidants

According to a study published in the Journal of Food Science and Technology, gouda cheese has antioxidant properties. The fortified gouda cheese has improved oxidation stability, antioxidant activity, and sensory qualities thanks to the addition of mango kernel fat.

5. Helps in digestion

Most people who are lactose intolerant stay away from dairy products out of concern for potential stomach issues. However, due to its low carbohydrate content, It contains very little lactose. As a result, such individuals may find it easier to digest.

6. Fits most popular diets

Gouda could be a suitable addition to your diet if you’re tracking carbs to keep your blood sugar levels stable because of diabetes. Additionally, most gouda cheese variants are gluten-free unless specifically labelled otherwise, making them a great option for people who must avoid gluten-containing foods.

Who should avoid gouda cheese?

Those with high cholesterol, hypertension, lactose intolerance, or excess weight may need to restrict gouda and monitor portion sizes. Old gouda can be high in tyramine and unsuitable for those taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), which are a type of antidepressants.

Also Read: Here are 4 things that happen when you eat too much cheese

Is it okay to eat gouda cheese every day?

“While this cheese is very nutritious, it is high in calories, sodium, and saturated fat. It’s better to limit gouda to 2-3 times per week for the healthiest diet. Pair it with plant foods for fibre, antioxidants, and unsaturated fats to balance its richness,” says the expert.