Explore the Health Benefits of Blue

When you think of eating healthy, it’s not surprising that Blue cheese may not be the first food to come to mind.  But what many do not realize is that Blue cheese does boast some pretty fantastic health advantages as well!  This June Dairy Month, as we pay homage to the beautiful benefits of dairy, we take a deep dive into how Blue cheese can be good for your health as part of a balanced diet.

Blue for your Bones

Perhaps the most recognized perk when people think of dairy is that it is high in calcium, a mineral known for strengthening bone health.  And Blue cheese is no exception – just 1 oz of Blue cheese contains 150mg of Calcium, which accounts for 10% of the recommended daily value.  According to WebMD, calcium consumption also can contribute to heathier bone density, which may lower the risk of osteoporosis.

Blue for your Gut

Penicillium Roqueforti, the magic ingredient that gives Blue cheese its characteristic veining, has been shown to have “probiotic properties” that help balance the gut microbe, research from the International Journal of Nutrition shows.  A fascinating study shows a population of people who consumed a diet heavy in Blue cheese during the Iron Age had an entirely different gut microbe when compared to those living in modern western civilization! 

Blue for your Body

Antioxidants, compounds that protect us from cell-damaging free radicals, are found in rich abundance within Blue cheese.  These antioxidants counteract the oxidative stress within the body, and can help prevent or delay chronic disease according to research.  And it turns out Blue cheese can combat inflammation as well.  The Scientific World Journal published a study showing that mice who consumed Roquefort twice daily experienced “anti-inflammatory and pro-regenerative effects.”  The study further hypothesized that Blue cheese “may contribute to the low prevalence of cardiovascular mortality in France where consumption of fungal fermented cheeses is the highest in the world.”

So this June Dairy Month, remember that Blue cheese is not just delicious, but can also be considered nutritious, too!