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St Agur is a blue cheese from the Auvergne region of France. It is a creamy, soft cheese with blue veins and a tangy taste. St Agur cheese is made from pasteurised cow’s milk and is matured for about two months. It is a popular cheese, often used in salads, soups and sauces, and also enjoyed on its own with crackers or bread.
While St Agur cheese is undoubtedly delicious, many people wonder if it is good for their health. In this article, we will take a closer look at the nutritional profile of St Agur cheese and explore the potential health benefits and risks associated with its consumption. By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of whether St Agur cheese is a healthy addition to your diet.
Nutritional profile of St Agur cheese
The nutritional profile of St Agur cheese is an important factor to consider when assessing whether it is good for your health. One ounce (28 grams) of St Agur cheese contains approximately
- 100 calories
- 8 grams of fat
- 5 grams of saturated fat
- 6 grams of protein
- 8% of the recommended daily allowance of calcium
St Agur cheese is also a good source of vitamin A, vitamin B12 and phosphorus. However, it is relatively high in sodium, with one ounce containing about 270 milligrams.
Health benefits of St Agur cheese
Although St Agur cheese should be consumed in moderation, it does offer some potential health benefits. Here are a few:
- Good source of calcium: St Agur cheese is a good source of calcium, which is important for bone health. Getting enough calcium in your diet can help prevent osteoporosis and other bone-related conditions.
- Probiotic properties: Like other fermented foods, St Agur cheese contains probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that can help support gut health. Probiotics have been linked to improved digestion, a stronger immune system and even better mental health.
- High in protein: St Agur cheese is relatively high in protein, which is important for building and repairing tissues in the body. Protein can also help you feel full and satisfied after a meal, which can help with weight management.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Some studies have suggested that the blue mould in St Agur cheese may have anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation has been linked to a number of health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes and arthritis.
While the potential health benefits of St Agur cheese are promising, it’s important to note that more research is needed to fully understand the impact of this cheese on health. In the meantime, it’s best to enjoy St Agur cheese in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Potential risks associated with the consumption of St Agur cheese
While St Agur cheese offers some potential health benefits, there are also potential risks associated with eating this cheese. Here are some to bear in mind:
- High in saturated fat: St Agur cheese is relatively high in saturated fat, which can increase your risk of heart disease and other health problems if consumed in excess. It’s important to limit your intake of saturated fat and choose healthier sources of fat such as nuts, seeds and avocados.
- High in sodium: St Agur cheese is also relatively high in sodium, which can increase your risk of high blood pressure and other health problems. If you’re watching your sodium intake, it’s important to limit your consumption of St Agur cheese and other high-sodium foods.
- Lactose intolerance: St Agur cheese is made from cow’s milk and may not be suitable for people with lactose intolerance. If you are lactose intolerant, you may experience digestive symptoms such as bloating, gas and diarrhoea after eating St Agur cheese.
- Allergies: Some people may be allergic to the mould used to make St Agur cheese. If you experience symptoms such as hives, swelling or difficulty breathing after eating St Agur cheese, you should seek medical attention immediately.
How to include St Agur cheese in a healthy diet
If you enjoy the taste of St Agur cheese, but want to incorporate it into a healthy diet, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Enjoy in moderation: While St Agur cheese can be a delicious addition to your meals, it’s important to eat it in moderation. Stick to small portions and limit your intake to a few times a week.
- Combine with healthy foods: St Agur cheese can be combined with a variety of healthy foods to create a balanced meal. Try adding a small amount of St Agur cheese to a salad of leafy greens, vegetables and a lean protein, or enjoy a small piece with a serving of fresh fruit.
- Choose whole grains: When enjoying St Agur cheese with crackers or bread, choose whole grain options instead of refined carbohydrates. Whole grain crackers and breads are higher in fibre and nutrients than their refined counterparts.
- Include in recipes: St Agur cheese can be a delicious addition to a variety of recipes, from soups and sauces to pasta dishes and omelettes. When cooking with St Agur cheese, be mindful of portion sizes and combine with other healthy ingredients.
By incorporating St Agur cheese into a healthy diet in moderation and combining it with other nutritious foods, you can enjoy the delicious taste of this cheese and still support your health.
Conclusion
So is St Agur cheese good for you? The answer is not a simple yes or no. While St Agur cheese offers some potential health benefits, there are also potential risks associated with its consumption. The key is to enjoy St Agur cheese in moderation and to combine it with other nutritious foods to create a balanced diet.
If you enjoy the taste of St Agur cheese, there’s no need to cut it out of your diet completely. Instead, focus on eating it in moderation and balancing it with plenty of fruit, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains. If you have any concerns about your health or the impact of St Agur cheese on your diet, it’s always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional or registered dietitian.
In summary, St Agur cheese can be a delicious addition to a healthy diet, but it should be consumed in moderation and combined with other nutritious foods to support overall health and well-being.
FAQs
What are the potential health benefits of St Agur cheese?
St Agur cheese is a good source of calcium, protein, and probiotics. It may also have anti-inflammatory properties.
What are the potential risks of consuming St Agur cheese?
St Agur cheese is high in saturated fat and sodium, and may not be suitable for people with lactose intolerance or allergies to the mold used to make the cheese.
How can St Agur cheese be incorporated into a healthy diet?
St Agur cheese can be enjoyed in moderation and paired with other nutritious foods, such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. It can also be used in a variety of recipes, from soups and sauces to pasta dishes and omelets.
Is St Agur cheese a good source of calcium?
Yes, St Agur cheese is a good source of calcium, which is important for bone health. One ounce of St Agur cheese provides about 8% of the daily recommended intake of calcium.
Is St Agur cheese high in sodium?
Yes, St Agur cheese is relatively high in sodium, with one ounce containing about 270 milligrams. It’s important to limit your intake of high-sodium foods, including St Agur cheese, to support overall health.