Andy Montoya
The Grain Brain diet, introduced by Dr. David Perlmutter in his 2013 book, Grain Brain: The Surprising Truth About Wheat, Carbs, and Sugar – Your Brain's Silent Killers, suggests that modern diets, particularly those high in carbohydrates and sugar, are detrimental to brain health and can lead to an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease and dementia. Perlmutter recommends a high-fat, low-carb diet, which includes the restriction of certain foods such as blue cheese. While the book does not explicitly mention why blue cheese is excluded, it is likely due to its high saturated fat content, which has been linked to negative effects on both the heart and brain.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Diet type | Grain Brain diet |
| Food type | Blue cheese |
| Reason for restriction | High saturated fat content |
| Recommended alternative | Full-fat, plain unsweetened yoghurt |
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What You'll Learn
Blue cheese is a dairy product with gluten
Blue cheese is a type of dairy product that is typically made from cow, sheep, or goat milk. It has a distinct pungent and salty flavour and is often crumbled over salads or grain bowls. Blue cheese also has a relatively low lactose content compared to other dairy products, making it a suitable option for individuals with lactose intolerance.
While blue cheese is naturally gluten-free, there has been a long-standing controversy regarding the presence of gluten in this dairy product. This controversy stems from the traditional practice of growing mould spores for blue cheese on gluten-containing bread. As a result, concerns have been raised about the potential for gluten contamination in blue cheese, especially for individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
However, recent studies have provided conflicting evidence regarding the presence of gluten in blue cheese. Some sources suggest that modern cheese-making techniques have reduced the likelihood of gluten contamination, as bread is no longer commonly used as a mould-growing medium. Additionally, several companies, including Rosenborg, BelGioso, Dutch Farms, Litehouse, Organic Valley, and Rogue Creamery, produce blue cheese that is not fermented in gluten-based spores.
Furthermore, a 2009 study by the Canadian Celiac Association found no traces of gluten in blue cheese samples, even when the cheese was made with spores grown on a gluten-containing medium. This study utilized highly sensitive tests, suggesting that blue cheese may be safe for individuals with gluten sensitivities. Nevertheless, some individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease have reported adverse reactions to consuming blue cheese, indicating that there may be individual variations in tolerance levels.
In conclusion, while blue cheese is a dairy product that is typically gluten-free, there has been ongoing debate and uncertainty surrounding the potential presence of gluten due to traditional cheese-making practices. However, recent studies and gluten-free product offerings suggest that blue cheese may be safe for consumption by individuals with gluten sensitivities. Individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease are advised to carefully observe their body's response to blue cheese and consult labels and resources, such as the "Living List of Gluten-Free Blue Cheese Products," to make informed choices.
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The Grain Brain diet discourages gluten consumption
The Grain Brain diet, introduced in a book by Dr. David Perlmutter, a neurologist and president of the Perlmutter Health Center in Naples, Florida, discourages gluten consumption. The diet is based on the idea that human genes have evolved to accommodate a high-fat, low-carb diet, contrary to the modern diet, which Perlmutter claims has devastating effects on the brain. He attributes the increasing rates of Alzheimer's, dementia, chronic headaches, depression, and epilepsy to modern eating habits.
The Grain Brain diet specifically highlights the negative impact of gluten on brain health. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley, and is therefore present in many grain-based products such as bread, pasta, and baked goods. While some people with coeliac disease or gluten sensitivity must strictly avoid gluten due to its adverse health effects, the Grain Brain diet takes a more radical approach by discouraging gluten consumption for everyone.
The diet advises against consuming gluten-containing grains, as they are considered highly processed and can cause spikes in blood sugar levels, leading to potential brain fog and an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease. Perlmutter particularly emphasises the hidden sources of carbohydrates and sugar in seemingly healthy foods, such as a whole-grain bagel and orange juice. He suggests that such high-carb breakfasts can cause a crash in blood sugar, leading to cravings and impaired brain function later in the day.
Instead of gluten-containing grains, the Grain Brain diet recommends non-gluten whole grains such as oats, amaranth, buckwheat, quinoa, sorghum, rice, teff, and millet. These non-gluten grains are considered to have a lesser impact on blood sugar levels and are believed to be more in line with the historical human diet.
In addition to avoiding gluten, the Grain Brain diet also discourages the consumption of other processed foods, sugary drinks, and artificial sweeteners. It encourages a high-fat diet, including full-fat dairy products, and emphasises the importance of vegetables, healthy fats, and probiotic-rich foods for optimal brain health.
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The diet recommends full-fat dairy products
The Grain Brain diet, introduced by Dr. David Perlmutter in his 2013 book, "Grain Brain: The Surprising Truth About Wheat, Carbs, and Sugar – Your Brain's Silent Killers", recommends a high-fat, low-carb diet. This is based on the idea that human genes have evolved to accommodate such a diet, and that modern diets high in carbohydrates and sugar have major negative effects on brain health. The diet suggests that people should avoid gluten, refined carbohydrates, and sugar, as these can increase the risk of Alzheimer's disease and dementia.
When it comes to dairy products, the Grain Brain diet recommends full-fat options. This includes full-fat cheeses, plain unsweetened yogurt, and whole milk and cream. The diet suggests that these can be consumed liberally, as long as they are organic or grass-fed. For example, butter is allowed on the diet, but it is recommended to limit it to less than one teaspoon per day if it comes from conventionally raised animals.
The recommendation to consume full-fat dairy products is in line with the diet's overall emphasis on healthy fats. The diet includes other healthy fats such as olives, extra-virgin olive oil, avocados, and nuts. However, it is important to note that the diet specifically advises against blue cheese, which is listed under meat and dairy products with gluten. While the book does not explicitly state why blue cheese is not recommended, it may be due to its association with gluten or its processing methods.
The inclusion of full-fat dairy products in the Grain Brain diet is in contrast to other brain-healthy diets such as the MIND diet, which limits cheese, butter, and other full-fat dairy products due to their high saturated fat content. The MIND diet is a research-based eating program aimed at improving memory and cognitive function and has been shown to reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease. It recommends limiting saturated fat to no more than 8% of the diet and encourages the consumption of brain-protective foods such as vegetables, whole grains, beans, leafy greens, and nuts.
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Blue cheese is not a fresh or cultured cheese
Blue cheese is a type of cheese that is known for its unique flavour and texture, which are a result of the mould that develops during the ageing process. The mould in blue cheese is typically Penicillium, specifically Penicillium Roqueforti, which is essential in the ripening process.
While blue cheese is a popular and flavourful variety of cheese, it is not considered a fresh or cultured cheese. Fresh cheeses are typically soft, unaged cheeses with a short shelf life, such as ricotta, mozzarella, chevre, Brie, cottage cheese, and cream cheese. Cultured cheeses, on the other hand, are made using specific bacteria or mould cultures that help develop flavour and texture. Examples of cultured cheeses include Cheddar, Colby, Monterey Jack, Feta, and Camembert.
Blue cheese is distinct from fresh and cultured cheeses due to its ageing process and the type of mould involved. Blue cheese is typically made from cow, sheep, or goat's milk, and then pierced with blue (copper) rods or wires to allow oxygen in, facilitating the growth of the Penicillium mould. This process of piercing and mould development is unique to blue cheese and sets it apart from other types of cheese.
The ageing process for blue cheese can vary depending on the specific variety, resulting in different intensities of flavour and texture. Some people may find the taste and smell of blue cheese too strong, as the mould and ageing process contribute to its distinct characteristics. However, blue cheese is valued by many for its complex and pungent flavour, making it a popular choice for salads, crackers, or simply enjoyed on its own.
In terms of its compatibility with the Grain Brain diet, blue cheese is not specifically mentioned as a recommended food. The Grain Brain diet, developed by David Perlmutter MD, focuses on brain health and recommends full-fat dairy products, plain unsweetened yoghurt, and aged and cultured cheeses. While blue cheese is not explicitly prohibited, it falls outside the categories of recommended cheeses, which may include fresh, cultured, and aged varieties. Therefore, it is reasonable to assume that blue cheese is not a part of the Grain Brain diet, aligning with the recommendation to avoid processed cheese.
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Blue cheese is highly processed
Blue cheese is considered highly processed because it is not 100% cheese. It is usually around 50% cheese, with the other half consisting of non-cheese ingredients such as salt, food dyes, preservatives, extra dairy, emulsifiers, or other artificial ingredients. These ingredients are added to melted, pasteurized cheese, which is then converted into a sliced solid, a jarred sauce, a spread, or a spray.
Processed cheese is not as pure as natural cheese, which is made from fresh, high-quality milk, salt, enzymes, and natural colors. Natural cheese is also known as the purest form of processed milk and does not contain any chemicals or preservatives to keep it fresh. On the other hand, processed cheese has a longer shelf life due to its high salt and preservative content, which can be harmful to the body.
The high salt content in processed cheese contributes to high blood pressure and hypertension. Additionally, the cheese's high-calorie content can lead to obesity. The presence of artificial ingredients and preservatives in processed cheese also makes it less heart-friendly, as it contributes to bad cholesterol and increases the risk of various heart diseases.
When following the Grain Brain diet, it is important to avoid blue cheese and other processed cheeses due to their high level of processing and the negative health impacts associated with them. The diet emphasizes the consumption of full-fat, plain, and preferably organic dairy products, which are considered healthier options.
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Frequently asked questions
Blue cheese is not allowed on the Grain Brain diet because it is a dairy product containing gluten.
The Grain Brain diet is a low-carb, high-fat diet based on the idea that human genes have evolved to accommodate a high-fat, low-carb diet. The diet was created by Dr. David Perlmutter, a neurologist and president of the Perlmutter Health Center in Naples, Florida.
Other foods that are not allowed on the Grain Brain diet include all carbs, including whole grains, refined carbohydrates, and sugar.
The Grain Brain diet is said to reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease and dementia.
