Evidence supporting the use of: Cheese
For the health condition: Calcium Deficiency
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 5
Cheese is scientifically validated as a dietary source to support and treat calcium deficiency. Numerous studies and nutritional guidelines recognize cheese as a rich source of bioavailable calcium, which is essential for bone health, nerve transmission, muscle contraction, and other physiological processes. The calcium content in cheese varies by type, but many varieties, such as hard cheeses (e.g., cheddar, parmesan), provide significant amounts per serving—often 200-300 mg per ounce.
The bioavailability of calcium from cheese is high, partly due to its relatively low content of oxalate and phytate—compounds found in some other foods that can inhibit calcium absorption. Additionally, cheese contains other nutrients beneficial to bone health, such as protein and phosphorus. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) and numerous dietetic associations recommend dairy products, including cheese, as a key dietary source of calcium, especially in populations at risk for deficiency, such as children, postmenopausal women, and the elderly.
Clinical evidence from dietary intervention studies shows that increased consumption of dairy products improves calcium status and decreases markers of bone turnover. Cheese can thus play an important role in both preventing and treating calcium deficiency when incorporated into a balanced diet. However, it should be consumed in moderation due to its sodium and saturated fat content.
Other health conditions supported by Cheese
Appetite (deficient)Calcium Deficiency
Fat Cravings
Osteoporosis