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A common party snack may help stop the dreaded feeling of a hangover
Cheese could be the secret weapon against hangovers this festive season, according to scientists. A natural component often found in several common cheeses may help prevent a day of throbbing headaches and nausea, allowing others to continue their celebrations.
A cheese board is a staple at many Christmas gatherings, often served as an appetiser, a sweet dessert alternative, or simply as a snack during a Christmas TV marathon. Researchers have discovered that certain cheeses offer a benefit that many celebrating Christmas would appreciate.
A study suggests that specific probiotics present in cheese could help reduce the after-effects of alcohol consumption. While most people put their hangovers down to the alcohol itself, it’s actually the accumulation of acetaldehyde, a natural byproduct produced by the liver, that causes typical hangover symptoms such as headaches and sickness.
In theory, cheese could be the solution to softening, or even preventing a hangover entirely. This is because some cheeses contain probiotics like Lactiplantibacillus plantarum and Bifidobacterium, reports the Daily Record.
These complexly named bacteria have been shown to aid in breaking down acetaldehyde, resulting in lower levels of acetaldehyde in the system and milder hangover symptoms. While cheese can be part of a balanced diet for most people, it may not be suitable for everyone.
Most cheeses have a low lactose content and may be suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance. However, if you’re lactose intolerant, it’s advisable to consult your doctor or pharmacist before making any dietary changes.
Those with high blood pressure should opt for cheeses that are low in sodium. Some cheeses are high in phosphorus, making them potentially hazardous for people with certain kidney conditions to consume in large quantities.
The British Heart Foundation claims: “Some cheeses are a healthier choice than others. Soft, fresh cheeses like quark, cottage cheese and ricotta tend to be lower in saturated fat and salt. While reduced-fat cheeses are not completely fat-free, they do contain less saturated fat than full-fat versions.”
Which cheese is the richest in these probiotics?
When assembling a cheese board as a pre-hangover remedy, it’s logical to maximise your intake of these probiotics. Fortunately for dairy lovers, there are several common types of cheese that are rich in either Lactiplantibacillus plantarum or Bifidobacterium.
When shopping, look for cheeses specifically labelled as containing “live cultures” or “probiotics”. Some excellent choices to stock up on, or keep in the fridge this Christmas include:
- Feta cheese (traditional/artisanal): Strains of L. plantarum have been isolated from the brine of Greek feta cheese and found to be prevalent in some varieties.
- Cheddar cheese (aged/probiotic varieties): While not typically a dominant natural component, commercial probiotic cheddar cheeses are specifically produced with L. plantarum as an adjunct culture, which survives well during the ripening process and results in high populations of the bacteria
- Aged Gouda: This cheese is also known to support the survival of Bifidobacterium strains.
Apart from potential hangover benefits, cheese offers other proven advantages, including providing protein, calcium, vitamins (such as B12 and A), and various minerals. It supports bone and teeth health, promotes muscle growth, and can aid heart and gut health.
