CHEESE – A SYMBOL OF HEDONISM THAT MAY ALSO SUPPORT HEART HEALTH

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is common—especially among older adults—and certain foods may help lower it.

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Hypertension can lead to serious health complications such as heart attacks and strokes. What makes it particularly concerning is that it often presents no clear symptoms, leaving many unaware they even have it. Key risk factors for developing high blood pressure include being overweight and following a poor diet.

Experts particularly warn against one food group that should be limited to reduce the risk of hypertension: ultra-processed foods. If you're looking to lower your blood pressure, it's important to focus on a balanced, low-sodium diet.

Among the foods considered beneficial, cheese stands out. Made through fermentation, cheese supports gut health and the microbiome. It’s also a rich source of important nutrients, including calcium, fats, protein, and vitamins. Choosing the right type of cheese can aid in blood pressure regulation, according to Eating Well.

Recent research has shown that increased calcium intake can slightly lower both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Scientists concluded this suggests a potential role for calcium in preventing hypertension, and even small reductions in blood pressure can have significant health benefits for cardiovascular health.

Types of cheese recommended by nutritionists for supporting blood pressure control include Swiss cheese, mozzarella, goat cheese, and ricotta. Dietitian Lauren Trahan notes that Swiss cheese has the lowest sodium content—just 54 milligrams per 28-gram serving. It is less processed and naturally contains less salt, while being high in calcium.

Additionally, fresh mozzarella contains about 85 milligrams of sodium per 28-gram serving, which is low compared to many other cheeses. Goat cheese is another suitable option, with around 118 milligrams of sodium and 85 milligrams of calcium per serving.

Ricotta is also a gentle option in both taste and salt content. Half a cup of ricotta contains approximately 135 milligrams of sodium and 289 milligrams of calcium, making it a heart-friendly addition to meals, reports Klix.