Introduction
Cheese is a popular dairy product that is enjoyed by many around the world. However, for those who are lactose intolerant, consuming cheese can be challenging. Lactose intolerance is a condition where the body cannot fully digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and milk products. This article will discuss what cheeses are high in lactose and what alternatives are available for those who are lactose intolerant.
Cheeses High in Lactose
Cheeses that are high in lactose include fresh cheeses such as ricotta, cottage cheese, and cream cheese. These cheeses contain more lactose than aged cheeses. Soft cheeses like brie and camembert also contain higher amounts of lactose than hard cheeses like cheddar and parmesan.
Ricotta Cheese
Ricotta cheese is made from the whey leftover from making other cheese. It has a creamy texture and is often used in Italian dishes like lasagna and cannoli. However, it is high in lactose, making it difficult for those who are lactose intolerant to digest.
Cottage Cheese
Cottage cheese is a fresh cheese that is made by curdling milk. It has a mild flavor and is often used in salads and as a topping for baked potatoes. However, it is high in lactose, making it difficult for those who are lactose intolerant to consume.
Cream Cheese
Cream cheese is a soft cheese that is often used as a spread on bagels and toast. It is made from a mixture of milk and cream and is high in lactose. Those who are lactose intolerant should avoid consuming cream cheese.
Brie and Camembert Cheese
Brie and camembert cheese are soft cheeses that are popular in France. They have a creamy texture and a mild flavor. However, they are high in lactose and should be avoided by those who are lactose intolerant.
Alternatives to High Lactose Cheeses
For those who are lactose intolerant, there are alternatives to high lactose cheeses. Aged cheeses like cheddar and parmesan contain lower amounts of lactose and can be consumed in moderation. Plant-based cheeses made from nuts and seeds are also available as alternatives to dairy-based cheese.
Aged Cheeses
Aged cheeses like cheddar and parmesan contain lower amounts of lactose than fresh cheeses. This is because during the aging process, the lactose in the cheese is broken down into lactic acid. Aged cheeses can be consumed in moderation by those who are lactose intolerant.
Plant-based Cheeses
Plant-based cheeses made from nuts and seeds are becoming increasingly popular as alternatives to dairy-based cheese. These cheeses are often made from cashews, almonds, or soybeans and are low in lactose. They are a great option for those who are lactose intolerant.
Conclusion
In conclusion, those who are lactose intolerant should avoid consuming fresh and soft cheeses like ricotta, cottage cheese, cream cheese, brie, and camembert. Instead, they should opt for aged cheeses like cheddar and parmesan or plant-based cheeses made from nuts and seeds. By choosing the right cheese, those who are lactose intolerant can still enjoy the delicious taste of cheese without the discomfort of lactose intolerance.