Patrick Oconnell
Blue cheese is a popular variety of cheese with a strong flavour that is slightly sweet, salty, and sharp. It is produced using a type of mould called Penicillium roqueforti, which is mixed with milk to begin the fermentation process. One of the most well-known types of blue cheese is English Stilton. This article will explore the question: is Stilton cheese healthy?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Nutritional profile | High in fat, protein, calcium, vitamin K2, vitamin A, and calories |
| Health benefits | Improved bone health, dental health, heart health, reduced risk of colorectal cancer, improved gut health, reduced risk of obesity |
| Taste | Rich and creamy |
| Texture | Firm |
| Colour | White |
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What You'll Learn
Stilton cheese is rich in vitamin K2
Stilton cheese, also known as English Stilton, is a variety of blue cheese. It is commonly referred to as the "King of Cheese". Blue cheese is a nutrient-dense food, and Stilton is no exception. In particular, Stilton cheese is rich in vitamin K2.
Vitamin K2 is a little-known vitamin with potentially significant health benefits. Firstly, vitamin K2 is important for skeletal health. It increases the deposition of calcium to our bones, helping to improve bone density and prevent osteoporosis. Calcium also plays a role in cardiac health and muscular contraction. Secondly, vitamin K2 reduces the risk of vascular damage by inhibiting arterial calcification. This may decrease age-related arterial stiffness and reverse changes in the heart, thereby reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
In addition to its high vitamin K2 content, Stilton cheese also contains high amounts of retinol, or preformed vitamin A. Vitamin A is essential for vision and immune health. Stilton is also an excellent source of calcium, providing 357 mg of calcium per 100 grams. This is important for bone and dental health, as well as cardiac health and muscular contraction.
Like other blue cheeses, Stilton is a fermented cheese. Fermented dairy may have a positive impact on health, and some studies have shown an association between higher fermented dairy intake and positive health impacts. For example, blue cheese can help promote gut health, which is beneficial for overall well-being. However, it is important to consume Stilton cheese in moderation due to its high fat, calorie, and sodium content.
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It contains a high amount of retinol
Stilton cheese, often referred to as the "king of cheese", is a famous English cheese with a rich history of over three hundred years. It has a rich and creamy taste and a distinctive blue veining. This veining is the result of piercing the cheese with stainless steel needles to create pathways for air to flow during the production process, allowing the development of the blue mould.
One of the key nutrients in Stilton cheese is retinol, also known as preformed vitamin A. Per 100 grams, Stilton provides 1250 IU (or 375 mcg RAE) of vitamin A, which is equivalent to 42% of the reference daily intake (RDI) for the vitamin. Vitamin A is essential for vision and immune health.
The presence of retinol in Stilton cheese contributes to its overall nutritional profile and potential health benefits. In addition to its high retinol content, Stilton cheese is also a good source of calcium and protein. It provides approximately 25 grams of protein per 100 grams. The calcium content in Stilton cheese supports bone health and helps reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
While Stilton cheese offers these nutritional benefits, it is important to consume it in moderation due to its high-fat content. Overall, Stilton cheese is a tasty and nutritious option, but it should be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.
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Stilton is a good source of calcium
Stilton cheese, also known as English Stilton, is a variety of blue cheese. It is commonly referred to as the "king of cheese". Blue cheese is a nutrient-dense food, rich in vitamins and minerals.
One of the key nutrients in blue cheese is calcium. An ounce (28 grams) of blue cheese contains around 150 milligrams of calcium. This is a relatively high amount compared to other types of cheese. Stilton is no exception, as it is an excellent source of calcium, providing 357 milligrams of calcium per 100 grams.
Calcium plays an important role in maintaining bone and dental health. It helps to strengthen bones and teeth, improve bone density, and prevent osteoporosis. The calcium content in blue cheese may also contribute to anti-obesity mechanisms by reducing visceral fat around the abdomen and improving gut health.
In addition to its high calcium content, Stilton cheese also contains other beneficial nutrients such as vitamin K2, vitamin A, and protein. Vitamin K2 is associated with skeletal health and reduced risk of vascular damage. Vitamin A is important for vision and immune health. Stilton offers a significant amount of protein, providing approximately 25 grams of protein per 100 grams.
While Stilton and other blue cheeses have potential health benefits, it is important to consume them in moderation due to their high-fat, calorie, and sodium content.
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It offers high amounts of protein
Stilton cheese, also known as English Stilton, is a variety of blue cheese. It is made from cow's milk and is known for its rich and creamy taste. In addition to its flavour, Stilton cheese is also a good source of nutrients.
One of the key nutrients found in Stilton cheese is protein. According to sources, Stilton provides approximately 25 grams of protein per 100 grams. This makes it a good source of protein for those who consume it. However, it is important to note that Stilton cheese is also high in calories, and there are other cheese options that are more protein-dense, such as ricotta.
The presence of protein in Stilton cheese is beneficial for muscle development. Protein is an essential macronutrient that helps build and repair muscle tissue. It is made up of amino acids, which are the building blocks of muscle. Consuming adequate amounts of protein is crucial for maintaining and improving muscle mass and strength.
In addition to its high protein content, Stilton cheese also offers other potential health benefits. For example, it is a good source of calcium, which is important for bone and dental health. The calcium content in Stilton cheese can help improve bone density and prevent osteoporosis. Furthermore, the consumption of calcium-rich foods has been linked to a reduced risk of obesity by lowering visceral fat storage around the abdomen and improving intestinal health.
Stilton cheese is also a source of vitamin K2, specifically the MK-4 variant. This vitamin is associated with potential health benefits, including improved skeletal health and a reduced risk of vascular damage by inhibiting arterial calcification. Additionally, the fermentation process involved in making Stilton cheese may have positive impacts on health. Some research suggests that the consumption of fermented dairy products can have beneficial effects on overall health and gut microbiome diversity.
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Stilton is a fermented cheese
Stilton is a type of blue cheese, which is a fermented cheese. Blue cheese is made by mixing Penicillium roqueforti mould cultures with milk to begin the fermentation process. Blue cheese is also characterised by blue veins or marbling, which are caused by the Penicillium roqueforti mould.
To make Stilton, pasteurised milk is poured into large milk vats, and a bacterial starter culture is added to kickstart the fermentation process. Blue mould (Penicillium roqueforti) and rennet are then added to thicken and clot the milk. The cheesemaker then cuts the cheese into cubes, and the curd is left to drain for 24 hours. The cheese is then milled into small curds, and salt is mixed into them. The salted curds are then transferred into cylindrical Stilton moulds. Unlike other types of cheese, Stilton is not pressed, so it stays light and airy inside. After fermenting in the moulds for 4-5 days, the cheeses are removed and rubbed to smooth and seal all the edges, which stops the cheese from moulding too early. The cheeses are then returned to their moulds and left to ferment for five weeks.
Research demonstrates that fermented dairy may have a positive impact on our health. For example, fermented dairy products contain lactic acid bacteria, fatty acids, and peptides that may help boost cognitive function and protect against age-related memory decline and dementia. In addition, blue cheese is rich in calcium, which is essential for healthy teeth and bones. It is also a good source of protein, vitamin A, and calcium. However, people should consume blue cheese in moderation due to its high levels of saturated fat, calories, and sodium.
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Frequently asked questions
Stilton cheese is a variety of blue cheese, which is known to be rich in nutrients and provides a variety of health benefits. Blue cheese is a great source of calcium, protein, vitamin K2, and retinol. It also contains a compound known as spermidine that may delay ageing and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Stilton cheese is an excellent source of calcium, which is essential for healthy bones and teeth. It also contains vitamin K2, which is associated with improved skeletal health and reduced risk of vascular damage. The high calcium content in Stilton cheese may also help with weight management by reducing body weight from fat and lowering the risk of obesity.
While the exact amount may vary depending on individual needs, it is generally recommended to consume around 30 grams of blue cheese, which provides approximately 150 mg of calcium. However, it is important to remember that Stilton cheese is high in calories, fat, and sodium, so it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
While Stilton cheese offers several health benefits, it is important to consume it in moderation due to its high-fat, calorie, and sodium content. Additionally, some people may have allergies or intolerances to dairy products, so it is always important to consider individual dietary restrictions and preferences.
