How Raw Cheese Helps Protect Against the Harmful Effects of PUFAs
The modern diet is full of polyunsaturated fatty acids, PUFAs. In fact, we have seen a drastic rise in plant-based PUFA sources relative to our ancestors with swapping butter for margarine, dairy fats for plant-based dairy alternatives, and a big increase in PUFA rich nuts and seeds.
But it’s important to remember that when we consume foods rich in Omega 6s, our bodies can break them down into potentially harmful oxidation byproducts, such as MDA and HNE, which are associated with increased risk of obesity and metabolic disorders.
However, having more beneficial bacteria in our gut—like Lactobacillus—can help metabolize these PUFAs into more protective compounds, reducing their potential for harm.
This is where raw cheese can help out…
Raw cheese is naturally rich in Lactobacillus, containing significantly higher amounts relative to pasteurized cheese. 1
The heat treatment used in pasteurization destroys these valuable lactic acid bacteria, stripping away much of the probiotic benefit. Raw cheese, on the other hand, retains these bacteria, offering a natural, unprocessed source of probiotics.
In a 2020 pilot study, participants who consumed raw dairy for 12 weeks experienced a significant increase in beneficial Lactobacillus species in their gut microbiome. 2
Lactobacillus not only helps promote a healthy gut environment, but we also know how it helps protect us against PUFAs!
These probiotics, including Lactobacillus, don’t just live in the cheese—they actually transfer to your gut microbiome 3
, where they support digestive health and maintain microbiome balance. Unlike probiotic pills, raw cheese delivers a broader spectrum of bacteria, thanks to natural fermentation and microbial interactions. The bacteria in cheese are also better protected from stomach acid, allowing them to survive the digestive process and reach your gut in greater numbers.
So, if you’re looking to help restore a healthy fatty acid balance, protect your cells from oxidative damage, and support your metabolism, start with raw, grass-fed cheese. 🧀✨
