People love cheese for its rich flavors, versatility, and comforting qualities. It’s a favorite in countless dishes and a staple in many cultures worldwide.
Whether it’s the sharp tang of cheddar, the creamy smoothness of brie, or the crumbly delight of feta, cheese brings joy to the table.
Now, there’s even more reason for cheese lovers to celebrate — some traditional cheeses in South America apparently contain healthy probiotic bacteria. These beneficial microbes support gut health, making such cheeses not only a tasty indulgence but also a boost for your well-being. For cheese enthusiasts, this news is sure to spark excitement.
Here is some of what Newsweek reported on the discovery:
Cheese could be healthier in the future now that microbiologists in Brazil have discovered three novel strains of probiotic bacteria in samples of traditional cheeses.
Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when eaten in food, may remain in the gut. People who have lots of—and lots of different types of—probiotic bacteria and yeasts in their gut are thought to have healthy microbiomes, i.e., microbial communities.
A healthy gut microbiome is associated with good mental health, a robust immune system, regular bowel movements and a lowered risk of many diseases and chronic conditions.
Many so-called health foods are probiotic, including kombucha, miso, sauerkraut, kefir, Greek yogurt and other fermented or pickled foods.
Scientists at the Food Technology Institute of the São Paulo Department of Agriculture and Supply have found three strains of bacteria in traditional Brazilian cheeses, including Prato and Minas.