Does cheese raise blood pressure? Cardiologists have a clear answer
New dietary recommendations continue to advise consuming three servings of dairy products daily, including cheese. Nutritionist Abi Sharp emphasizes that cheese is a good source of calcium, potassium, and bioactive peptides, particularly present in fermented dairy products. Calcium plays an important role in maintaining bone health. However, despite these benefits, the question of how cheese affects heart health, especially regarding blood pressure, often arises.
TL;DR
- Most cheeses do not significantly impact blood pressure.
- Highly processed cheeses are high in sodium and can raise blood pressure.
- Sodium increases blood pressure by causing the body to retain water, increasing blood volume.
- Lower-sodium cheese options include Swiss, fresh mozzarella, and ricotta.
- Higher-sodium cheeses like feta and parmesan should be consumed less frequently.
- Consider cheese a flavor enhancer rather than a main food, using small amounts of intensely flavored varieties.