Cheese-making has a history spanning over 8,000 years, practiced by cultures worldwide.

Over time, various animals have been prized for their milk, including camels, goats, and yaks.

In modern times, cow’s milk has become the dominant source of dairy, with production increasing by 50% in the past 40 years. Although liquid milk consumption has declined, cheese's popularity has grown, with the average person consuming about 34 pounds of cheese annually as of 2012.

1. Cheese Can Help Prevent Osteoporosis

We’ve all heard the advice to drink milk for strong bones, but did you know that our bones continue to grow and reach their peak density by age 30? After that, the aging process can begin to weaken bones. Having a higher bones density earlier on can reduce the effects of aging on bones health.

Low bones mass can lead to osteoporosis, a disease that causes fragile bones, affecting over 10 million Americans, with women being 80% of those impacted. Osteoporosis is the leading cause of fractures, especially in the wrist, hip, and spine. This condition is often linked to a lack of calcium, which causes bones to weaken.

2. Cheese Can Improve Your Dental Health

A study conducted by dental professionals discovered that eating cheese may help prevent dental cavities. The study tested four groups that consumed milk, sugar-free yogurt, paraffin, and cheese. They measured the pH levels in their mouths before and after consumption. When the pH drops below 5.5, teeth become vulnerable to acid erosion. While milk, paraffin, and sugar-free yogurt showed no significant change, the cheese group had an increase in pH levels.

This effect could be due to increased saliva production from chewing, which helps protect teeth, or because cheese components may stick to teeth, creating a protective barrier. Since teeth are made of similar substances to bones, cheese not only supports bones health but also benefits your dental health.

3. Cheese Can Help You Gain Weight Healthily

For some, gaining weight is a goal, whether for health reasons, athletic purposes, or for children who need to increase their weight. However, gaining weight the right way is important, as poor food choices can harm health. Cheese, rich in protein, fats, and essential vitamins and minerals, is an excellent option for healthy weight gain.

4. Cheese is the Top Dietary Source of Calcium

Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body and is essential for regulating various functions, including muscle contraction, nerve transmission, and hormone secretion. While only 1% of the calcium in your body is used for these functions, the remaining 99% is stored in your bones.

5. Cheese is a Great Source of Protein

Protein plays a vital role in the body, supporting immune function, muscle growth, tissue repair, and maintaining fluid balance. Without enough protein, you may experience fluid retention or muscle shrinkage.

6. Cheese is Packed with Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12, also known as Cobalamin, is one of the most complex vitamins. It plays a crucial role in the production of red blood cells, protein, and DNA, and is vital for mental health. A deficiency in B12, which can lead to Vitamin B12 anemia, results in symptoms like fatigue, muscle weakness, and, in severe cases, neurological damage.

7. Cheese Can Help Lower Blood Pressure

Research has shown that including dairy in the diet may help reduce blood pressure, likely due to the increased calcium intake. A study compared two groups: one eating only fruits and vegetables and the other adding low-fats dairy products. The group consuming dairy showed a decrease in overall blood pressure.