Got cheese on the brain? A new study reveals daily consumption of cheddar and feta enhances memory in seniors and hey, we ain’t getting any younger!

A new study out of Tokyo published in the “Nutrients” journal found that of 1,516 participants aged 65 and above, those who consumed cheddar or feta daily had better memory and cognitive function compared to those who did not. The study also highlighted that those who consumed cheese regularly had more diverse and adventurous palates than those who didn’t.

While further research is needed to understand the study’s complexities (we’re putting our hands up now), the Tokyo study is not the first to confirm these delicious side effects. 

A 2022 study from Iowa State University found that consuming more cheese and wine may also help protect against age-related cognitive decline, as part of a larger study in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease. 

Though we’re still not sure exactly how it works, we do know that the type of cheese consumed matters. Particularly when certain highly processed cheeses may actually negatively affect cognition. 

Related story: Say cheese! Why you should be adding raw milk cheese to your cheeseboard

While feta and cheddar contain high levels of B12 and choline, known for their positive effects on cognitive function, in 2012 researchers at the University of Minnesota’s Center for Drug Design found that diacetyl, a chemical that gives processed cheeses their creamy, buttery, addictive flavour, can cross the blood-brain barrier and is implicated with amploid-b peptide toxicity associated with Alzheimer’s disease.

The cheese giveth, the cheese taketh away.

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