A small piece of bread to finish the cheese, then a small piece of cheese to finish the bread… and without really realizing it, the slice of Comté or the piece of goat cheese disappears once again. As an aperitif, at the end of a meal or even as an improvised snack, cheese often has that little taste of coming back for more that gives the impression of never being able to stop. But can you really become addicted to cheese?
Why cheese makes us want to come back
According to dietitian-nutritionist Alexandra Murcier, several biological and behavioral mechanisms explain this attraction.
“Cheese is a very palatable food, that is to say very pleasant in the mouth. It contains fat, salt and a melting texture which strongly stimulates taste and the reward circuit in the brain”, she explains.
Concretely, when we consume cheese, the brain releases dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure. This pleasant sensation then encourages you to repeat the experience… even without real hunger.
Another particularity: milk proteins, called caseins, are transformed during digestion into casomorphins. “These molecules have a chemical structure close to opioids and can bind to certain brain receptors, with a soothing effect and a feeling of well-being”specifies Alexandra Murcier.
Be careful, however: the impact remains very weak and incommensurate with that of addictive substances. Cheese does not cause chemical dependence comparable to that of drugs or tobacco.
Such a psychological and social phenomenon
Beyond biology, cheese is part of strong cultural habits. Platter shared with friends, convivial moment at the end of the meal, association with wine or an aperitif…
“Our brains are often conditioned to associate cheese with pleasure. In some people, this can lead to frequent cravings or compulsive eating behavior, for example eating cheese to manage stress or emotions.”underlines the specialist.
In this case, it is not an addiction in the medical sense, but rather an eating compulsion, reinforced by habit and environment.
Addiction or simple gluttony: the essential difference
Alexandra Murcier insists on the importance of words.
“Talking about cheese addiction bothers me a little, because this term corresponds to diseases linked to alcohol, tobacco or drugs. Cheese does not cause physical dependence and does not have the same consequences.”
In a real addiction, we observe in particular:
- A significant loss of control;
- A growing need to consume;
- Withdrawal symptoms;
- A major impact on health or social life.
Nothing compares to cheese, although some people may experience very strong or repeated cravings.
How to enjoy cheese without going overboard
Good news: no need to deprive yourself completely. The objective is rather to find a balanced relationship with this pleasure food.
Alexandra Murcier recommends several simple strategies:
- Consume it regularly but reasonably
“Frequent and moderate consumption of a food reduces impulsivity. Restricting yourself completely can, on the contrary, accentuate desires.“ - Choose a cheese you really like
It is better to enjoy a small portion of quality than to multiply the quantities of less popular products.
- Eat mindfully
Looking, smelling, appreciating the texture and aromas helps increase satisfaction and limit excesses. - Respect portions
An average consumption of approximately
40 g per day is enough to benefit from the nutritional benefits of cheese (protein, calcium) without excess salt or fat. - Identify emotional triggers
If cheese becomes a response to stress or boredom, it may be helpful to find other emotion management strategies.
The key therefore remains balance: enjoying yourself, without automatism or excess, to keep intact the joy of sharing a nice slice of brie… or a piece of Comté cheese.