LONDON: A comprehensive genetic analysis has revealed a correlation between better mental well-being and extended healthier lives. While the study by Chinese researchers examined millions of European genetic profiles, it highlighted various lifestyle factors influencing this link, such as dietary choices including cheese consumption. This finding, though attention-grabbing, is part of broader research indicating that mental well-being—measured by factors like life satisfaction and mood—may contribute significantly to healthy ageing.
Unlike previous observational studies, this research used Mendelian randomization, a method that allows researchers to explore potential causal relationships without conducting extensive clinical trials. Across multiple European population datasets, encompassing millions of individuals, the study found evidence suggesting that improved mental well-being could foster longevity and health, independent of socioeconomic status.
Examining data from 33 individuals in these datasets, the researchers investigated intermediary factors driving the connection between mental well-being and healthy ageing. They identified lifestyle choices, such as smoking, and behaviors like medication use, as influencing factors. Surprisingly, they found that individuals reporting higher cheese consumption tended to exhibit better mental well-being scores. Cheese consumption also showed a positive impact on self-rated health and lifespan.
For perspective, smoking negatively impacted health ageing factors by 4.56%, while eating fruit positively affected them by 1.96%. Conversely, excessive TV watching had the greatest negative impact at 7.39%. The study underscores the complex interplay between mental and physical health, acknowledging that it is impossible to account for every influencing factor.
Further research is necessary to understand why cheese consumption appears to have such a pronounced effect on healthy ageing compared to other dietary factors. Despite concerns about high-fat foods, studies suggest that moderate dairy fat intake, including from certain cheeses, may reduce cholesterol and cardiovascular risk. While whole-fat dairy products like ice cream may affect mental health negatively, some cheeses may offer unique benefits within a balanced diet.
Studies from Japan and elsewhere suggest that cheese consumption could enhance cognitive function and stimulate dopamine pathways in the brain, potentially promoting feelings of pleasure. Ultimately, while cheese’s precise mechanisms remain to be fully understood, initial findings suggest it could contribute positively to both mental and physical well-being. Therefore, incorporating moderate amounts of cheese into a balanced diet might be a worthwhile consideration for those aiming to enhance longevity and health.
