Cheddar cheese lowers cholesterol more than butter in women

New research from University College Dublin (UCD) shows that cheddar cheese may be better than butter for women's heart health. The study found that women who ate cheese had significantly lower cholesterol levels compared to when they consumed butter. In contrast, the study noted that there was no significant difference in cholesterol levels for men after eating either food. This highlights a difference in how men and women respond to dairy products, according to the researchers. Co-author Dr. Martina Rooney emphasized the potential benefits of this research for creating personalized nutrition plans for women at risk of heart disease. She stated that women seem to benefit more from cheese than from fats found in other dairy products. The study suggests that women are more affected by what researchers call the "dairy matrix effect." This refers to how the protein, fat, and other nutrients in cheese work together in the body. Participants in the study consumed either 120 grams of Irish cheddar cheese or a mixture designed to mimic cheese. The results indicated that cheese improved heart health in middle-aged adults at risk for metabolic diseases. However, the researchers stressed the need for more studies to further explore the differences between the sexes. Heart disease is a significant health concern for women in Ireland, yet awareness about it is low. The study also addressed the ongoing debate over the health benefits of dairy. Many people limit their dairy intake despite its rich sources of essential nutrients like protein and calcium. The findings are published in the journal Atherosclerosis.