Blue cheese is a popular type of cheese that is loved by people all around the world. It has a strong, pungent smell and sour taste. Blue cheese originated in Roquefort, France, and includes varieties like gorgonzola, stilton, and cambozola. During the ripening process of the cheese, small holes are made on the surface, allowing Penicillium Roqueforti bacteria to grow and produce the characteristic blue veins. Blue cheese is an excellent source of calcium and other minerals that are beneficial to your health. Let’s explore all the health benefits of blue cheese and whether it causes any side effects.

Why is it called blue cheese?

Blue cheese is a type of cheese that gets its name from the blue-coloured veins of mold that grow within it. The mold responsible for this is called Penicillium roqueforti, which develops during the fermentation process when spores mix with milk. This results in a blue-green vein-like structure that gives the cheese its distinct appearance.

What is special about blue cheese?

The process of formation of blue cheese starts after mixing with Mold spores and milk which leads to fermentation.

After the fermentation process, cheese forms into a solid shape, and cheese makers pierce it using stainless steel needles to create pathways for air to flow. These pathways are where the blue, or blue-green coloured veins of Mold will later develop.

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Is blue cheese safe for consumption?

Blue cheese is non-toxic and safe for human consumption, unlike other varieties of Mold cheese. Blue cheese has its health benefits but should be consumed in moderation due to its high fat, sodium, and calorie content.

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Cheese is a nutrient-dense food. According to the study published by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), 1 ounce (oz) or 28.35 grams of blue cheese contains the following:

• 100 calories
• 6 grams (g) of protein
• 8 g fat
• 0.6 g carbohydrates
• 0 g fibre
• 0.14 g sugar
• 150 milligrams (mg) of calcium
• 0.08 mg iron
• 6 mg magnesium
• 110 mg phosphorus
• 72 mg potassium
• 326 mg sodium

What are the health benefits of blue cheese?

Here are all the benefits of incorporating blue cheese for health as explained by nutritionist Prachi Jain.

1. Promotes heart health

By including blue cheese in your diet, you may be able to reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease. A study published in Scientific World Journal indicates that individuals who regularly eat blue cheese are at a lower risk of developing cardiovascular problems compared to those who do not. In addition to preventing blood clotting in veins or arteries and arterial inflammation, blue cheese also lowers cholesterol levels.

2. Fights arthritis

As we become older, we encounter a variety of health problems, with arthritis being one of them. Anti-inflammatory qualities found in blue cheese aid in lowering joint inflammation and easing arthritis pain. Including blue cheese in your food plan can both prevent and assist manage arthritis.

3. Improves memory

Blue cheese’s nutrients aid in improving memory and preventing memory loss. Eating blue cheese improves the way brain cells operate.

4. Good source of phosphorus

Phosphorus can be found in abundance in blue cheese. This mineral is essential for strong teeth and bones. Phosphorus deficiency can cause bone-related issues such as rickets. Phosphorus is essential for the body’s numerous crucial processes in addition to maintaining strong bones and teeth.

5. Contains anti-inflammatory properties

Most people nowadays suffer from inflammation, which is a serious issue that can become fatal if left untreated. There are anti-inflammatory qualities to blue cheese. As a result, it aids in the body’s battle against numerous inflammatory issues. Thus, cut off inflammation from your diet by incorporating blue cheese into it immediately!

Also Read: Make these healthy diet swaps to beat inflammation

6. Rich in milk protein

People who are lactose intolerant and cannot consume milk can obtain the necessary protein by eating blue cheese, which includes milk protein.

7. Dental health

It is rich in calcium which promotes bone health, dental health specially tooth enamel, muscle contraction, and nerve impulse transmission.

Are there any side effects of eating blue cheese?

• Blue cheese is high in fat, especially saturated fats so it can increase the risk of high cholesterol level if not consumed in moderation.
• It is high in sodium levels. High intake of sodium can lead to the risk of many health concerns like high blood pressure, renal concerns, water retention, oedema.
• Lactose Intolerance due to the presence of lactose (Natural milk sugar) can be a bad idea for people with lactose intolerance. You should avoid it as it can lead to nausea, vomiting, stomachache, and diarrhea.
• People who are allergic to penicillin or any mold may be at risk.
• Spoiled blue cheese contains mycotoxins that can result in food poisoning which further leads to nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, etc.

Blue cheese has numerous health benefits. It supports tooth, bone, and heart health. It may boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, and ease the discomfort of arthritis. This type of cheese can also be beneficial to your cognitive abilities.

Nevertheless, consuming too much could result in lactose intolerance or allergies. If you have experience any negative side effects after consuming blue cheese, see a doctor immediately to avoid complications.