From cheddar to camembert, some of our favourite varieties of cheese harbour a surprising secret to better digestion.

Damon Syson

October 26, 2026

We are a nation of cheese lovers, but it may come as a surprise to discover that this household staple is also a secret superfood.

A recent study has revealed that the microbes in different cheeses could also offer a surprising boost for gut health. Scientists from the University of Reading tracked the microbial and biochemical changes that took place as three cheeses matured. Their findings suggest that some of the bacteria responsible for developing each cheese’s unique flavour profile may also be beneficial, “potentially producing compounds linked to reduced inflammation, cholesterol regulation and appetite control”.

Not all cheeses are created equal, gut health-wise.…