Full-Fat Cheese and Cream Consumption Linked to Lower Dementia Risk

A long-term study suggests that people who regularly consume full-fat cheese and cream may have a lower risk of developing dementia later in life, challenging long-standing recommendations to limit dietary fat. Published on December 17, 2025, in Neurology, the study followed 27,670 adults in Sweden for about 25 years.

Researchers found that participants who ate at least 50 grams of high-fat cheese daily had a 13% lower risk of dementia compared with those who consumed minimal amounts. High-fat cheese, defined as containing more than 20% fat, included varieties such as cheddar, Brie, and Gouda. Similarly, individuals who consumed 20 grams or more of high-fat cream per day showed a 16% reduced dementia risk.

No association was observed for low-fat dairy products, milk, butter, or fermented milk. While the findings highlight a potential link between certain full-fat dairy foods and brain health, researchers stress that the results show an association, not a cause-and-effect relationship, and further studies are needed.

21-12-2025