Cheesy Science

Turns out you need a good old pinch of cheese before you die... it's good for the soul, brain and well (nearly) everything else....

If you’re familiar with The Indytute girls, you’ll know we LOVE our cheese. We can’t get enough of it and there’s a reason Cheese and Wine experiences are our best sellers.

But why? There’s actual science to back up why it makes us feel good but we also simply love the taste, the crackers, the bread and the accompaniments. A cheese board is also super social. Cheese contains plenty of protein and fuels vital reactions in the body. Cheese consists of HBV or high biological value proteins, meaning it contains all essential amino acids for the body. These proteins supply us with an abundant amount of energy as well as blood sugar control which massively improves our productivity. Cheese also contains an amino acid called Tyrosine, which is associated with the conservation of energy in the body, as well as improving alertness, attention and focus. Exactly what we all need on a gloomy day, that just seems to drag on.

Hard cheeses such as parmesan have a high level of protein, as do many Blue Cheeses. You don’t have to ask me twice to get my daily dose of Manchego.

 There’s a reason for the cheese selection in a continental breakfast! Cheese can also produce a mild euphoric reaction (a visit to my lovely local deli is enough for me….) because it contains casein which breaks down into casomorphins when digested. These bind to the same brain receptors as opioids, releasing dopamine, the ‘feel good’ neurotransmitter.

Finally, doing something we really enjoy (yes…. this includes baking and devouring a whole camembert) releases serotonin. Serotonin helps stabilize our mood and sense of well-being. So to boil it down (not literally..), the more you like cheese, the more effect it will have on your happy hormones.

Do remember to not overdo it. A balanced diet is key, although I see no issue with a generous grating of cheese over many staple midweek suppers in my house; bolognese ✅ , burritos ✅ , tomato soup ✅ , salad (make it Greek) ✅….. It’s also the best way to get picky eaters to dig in!