17/06/2026
š§Jarlsberg is a Norwegian cheese that is particularly rich in types of vitamin K2 which are produced by the bacteria used during fermentation.
š¦“Vitamin K2 helps activate osteocalcin, a protein involved in bone formation. Once activated, osteocalcin can bind calcium and help incorporate it into bone tissue.
š©š»āš¬A 2022 randomised clinical trial found that daily consumption of 57g of Jarlsberg significantly increased osteocalcin and bone turnover markers in healthy women. The effects were not seen in those eating Camembert, which has similar fat and protein content but no vitamin K2.Ā
š©š»āš¬The researchers also identified a compound called DHNA produced during Jarlsbergās fermentation process which may contribute to these effects beyond vitamin K2 alone.
āļøHoweverā¦.
The research is small, relatively short term and more studies are needed before firm conclusions can be drawn.Ā
šš»āāļøBut my take is that the mechanism is plausible, the findings are interesting and Jarlsberg is also a good source of calcium and has protein.
šAs Iād be buying cheese anyway, Jarlsberg is a sensible choice as part of a varied, bone friendly diet.
š§Itās not a magic bullet but it might just be the most interesting cheese in the supermarket.
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