Avoid starting your day with cheese for breakfast - here's the explanation!
Start your day off right with a nutritious breakfast! But, did you know that consuming processed cheese first thing in the morning could potentially pose some health risks? Here's a closer look at why you might want to reconsider that morning cheese toast or breakfast sandwich.
Processed cheese, such as cheese spreads or slices, is a common breakfast choice, often featured in quick meals like sandwiches or cheese on toast. However, its high preservative content can lead to potential health issues like blood pressure imbalance, water retention, and low calcium intake compared to natural cheese varieties.
The high saturated fat content in processed cheese raises LDL ("bad") cholesterol, increasing risks of heart disease, stroke, and clogged arteries over time. Moreover, its calorie density can contribute to weight gain.
Blue cheese, such as Gorgonzola, Stilton, or Roquefort, is best avoided in the morning due to its sour flavor and potential to cause acid reflux. Its rich mold content and high sodium can also disrupt the gut microbiome or exacerbate blood pressure issues, which can be less ideal when the body's metabolic systems are just starting to be active after overnight fasting.
Aged cheeses, like parmesan or manchego, should also be avoided for breakfast due to their high salt content and potential to cause headaches or imbalance in blood pressure.
While these cheeses can still be consumed later in the day, it's best to avoid them for breakfast to support a better eating rhythm and internal biological clocks. Research suggests that consuming these cheeses later in the day aligns better with the body's metabolic rhythms and food processing capabilities, potentially reducing negative impacts on blood pressure, heart health, and gut function.
So, instead of reaching for that morning cheese, opt for a balanced breakfast that includes whole grains, lean proteins, and fresh fruits or vegetables. And remember, avoiding processed cheese for breakfast doesn't mean giving up on it entirely – just save it for later in the day!
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[1] Healthline. (2020). The Truth About Processed Cheese. [online] Available at: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/processed-cheese
[2] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Blue Cheese: Nutrition Facts and Health Benefits. [online] Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/foods/blue-cheese/nutrition-charts/cheese/dtc-204349
[3] Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. (2020). Saturated Fats: Why They're Bad for Your Heart. [online] Available at: https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/healthy-eating-plate/fats/saturated-fats/
[4] European Journal of Nutrition. (2018). Meal timing and metabolic health: impact of circadian rhythm and eating patterns. [online] Available at: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs00394-018-1640-6
[5] American Heart Association. (2021). Cheese: Nutrition Facts and Health Benefits. [online] Available at: https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/nutrition-basics/cheese-nutrition-facts-and-health-benefits
Food choices for breakfast can significantly impact health and wellness. Consuming processed cheese, such as cheese spreads or slices, might increase risks of heart disease, stroke, and clogged arteries due to its high saturated fat content and calorie density. Instead, aim for a balanced breakfast that includes whole grains, lean proteins, and fresh fruits or vegetables to start your day right.
