Charcuterie board #dEATS:
Goodbye Lunchables, hello charcuterie boards! If you haven’t noticed, charcuterie boards (shahr-kyut-uh-ree) a.k.a. “fancy meat and cheese boards” have become a social media phenomenon yielding nearly one million search results on Instagram. Where does the word charcuterie come from? According to Center of the Plate, the French word charcuterie is derived from the words “chair “flesh” and cuit “cooked.” In the 15th century, this word was used to describe cooked, cured or smoked meats such as bacon, ham, sausage, etc.
Charcuterie boards require no cooking skills (phew) and are a great way to channel your inner creativity. Plus, your masterpiece of meat and cheese is guaranteed to impress your friends and family. The key to a great charcuterie board? VARIETY! Be sure to include an assortment of cheeses, meats, fruits, vegetables, and crackers, while also using a variety of shapes and sizes. And remember, there is no defined structure to a charcuterie board, so choose your favorite meats and cheeses, pour some wine and indulge!
We know cheese and wine are good for the taste buds, but are they also good for brain health? Keep reading to learn more about a recent study that shows how wine and cheese can improve brain function and help to prevent cognitive decline.
New study shows wine and cheese may help prevent cognitive decline
A new research study from Iowa State University suggests that wine and cheese may have a direct impact on preventing cognitive decline. Data collected from 1,787 people aging from 46-77 analyzed Fluid Intelligence Tests (FIT) and food and alcohol consumption assessments. Iowa State University stated, “Cheese, by far, was shown to be the most protective food against age-related cognitive problems, even late into life. The daily consumption of alcohol, particularly red wine, was related to improvements in cognitive function.”
Researcher Brandon Klindesinst believes it’s possible that wine and cheese may also protect people from Alzheimer’s disease. Klinedinst stated, “Depending on the genetic factors you carry, some individuals seem to be more protected from the effects of Alzheimer’s, while other seem to be at greater risk. That said, I believe the right food choices can prevent the disease and cognitive decline altogether. Perhaps the silver bullet we’re looking for is upgrading how we eat. Knowing what that entails contributes to a better understanding of Alzheimer’s and putting this disease in a reverse trajectory.”
-Gabriella Costantini