Is Lactose-Free Cheese Healthier? The Science and Benefits Explained

Food items such as cheese for example is a product that consumers love and enjoy compulsively, but consumers with lactose intolerance cannot indulge as much in it as they wish. With the fast rise in globalization though, the consumption of lactose-free dairy products is also becoming more frequent in the market. But how are these cheeses different; what do make them safe for those who suffer from lactose intolerance?  This article studies the science of lactose-free cheese, provides evidence on its usefulness, and answers some of the most asked questions including which Cheese is lactose free? And Lactose Intolerance and Cheese: what are the implications of these two concepts, when both are applied??

What Is Lactose Intolerance?

Lactose intolerance is thus all about the inability of an individuals’ system to break down lactose – a sugar that is found in milk. Lactose intolerance is a result of insufficient amounts of the lactase enzyme when lactose is being broken down into galactose as well as glucose. If lactase is missing or insufficient in the body, lactose that is not digested is out-right ferments in the intestines resulting in such problems as gas, bloating or pain in the abdomen.

What Cheese Is Lactose Free?

Lactose Free: True Cheeses

Most cheesemakers will tell you that during the cheesemaking process, very many types of cheese do not contain lactose, or naturally have a lot of lactose. Bacteria in cheese usually consume the lactose content as cheese matures, rendering any lactose as good as non-existent. Here are some of the lists of cheese’s that can be taken by those with lactose intolerance:

Hard Aged Cheeses

• Cheddar: A well-aged cheese since it goes through a fermentation process which is able to overcome a majority of lactose.
• Parmesan: This cheese is fermented for more than 12-36 months, meaning there are traces of lactose as well.
• Swiss Cheese: This cheese basically has very low lactose because it requires more time to ferment.

Soft Ripened Cheeses

• Brie and Camembert: These cheeses, however, are moderate in lactose because a significant portion of lactose present in milk is fermented.

Other Options

• Goat and Sheep Milk Cheeses: Of all the cheeses, these are said to have minimum lactose compared to cow’s milk cheese and are therefore a better option for those seeking lesser lactose.

Specially Made Lactose-Free Cheeses

This growth in food technology has seen the coming of cheeses that are especially prepared for people with the lactose intolerance ailment. Such types of cheese are prepared with milk which has lactase, an enzyme which is used to break down lactose.

How to tell that a given cheese is lactose free

The best way to figure out if a cheese contains lactose is to look for certain phrases on the packaging such as:

• Lactose Free or Lactose Intolerant
• Lactose content in this is zero for every portion size.
• If the cheese has been aged for over 6 months because cheeses aged over 6 months have low lactose content.

Benefits of Lactose-Free Cheeses

1. Easier Digestion

Since cheese is low in lactose, people who are lactose intolerant will not have any side effects such as stomach upsets after taking cheese. Thus, the lactose free cheese is approved and recommended for those who love cheese but cannot tolerate lactose rich foods for gut problems.

2. Nutritional Density

Lactose-free cheeses have an equally rich nutritional profile as they contain the same nutrients including:

Calcium: Good for the bones and the prevention of diseases such as osteoporosis.

Protein: Useful for regeneration and growth of new tissue-muscle.

Vitamins: For instance vitamin A and vitamin B12 that is a factor in maintaining eyes, skins and generation for energy.

3. Healthy Gut / Probiotics Benefits

They also contain lactose which is unavailable in many naturally aged cheeses that may contain probiotics. These germs are pro-good and are beneficial in the improvement of digestion and the Immunity systems.

4. Versatility in Diets

Lactose-free cheeses are not just for those with intolerance—they’re also suitable for individuals following specific diets like FODMAP, which limits lactose intake.

Cheeses for Lactose Intolerance: Cheese Catering

• Cooking: For mac and cheese, consider using lactose-free cheddar and for fondue, Swiss.
• Cheese, in sandwiches: Consumed grated older Parmigiano cheese with fresh fruits or lactose intolerance crackers.
• Baking: Lactose free mozzarella can be used on pizzas or in a casserole.
• Cheese Boards: For an appealing appetizer, choose dried fruits, nuts and wine with lactose – free cheese for rs inviting spread.

About Lactose-Free Cheesemaking

Low lactose cheeses are created using a very effective and simple process. In the case of naturally lactose-free varieties, aging and fermentation allows lactose to be broken down by lactic string bacteria into lactic acid. This not only avoids lactose but it also adds value to the cheese because of the extra flavouring matter.

In the specially produced lactose free cheeses, lactase enzyme is incorporated into the milk prior to the actual process of cheese making. The cheese is ideal for even those who suffer from a serious intolerance to lactose because this enzyme hydrolyzes lactose beforehand into glucose and galactose.

Why Is Lactose-Free Cheese Your Best Option?

Taste Without Compromise: Lactose-free cheeses retain all the taste profiles of normal cheeses such as the feeling of the cheeses, the creaminess and the sharpness.

Inclusive for Everyone: They help those who are affected with lactose intolerance to incorporate cheese into their diet programs.

Health Benefits: Lactose-free cheeses are wholesome products containing nutrients and digestion-enhancing probiotics, making lactose-free cheeses a functional food

Conclusion

It has made many people who love taking cheese but have issues with taking lactose to enjoy their dairy products as they desire. The options are as varied as can be; starting with the naturally matured types of cheese to the specifically cultured lactose-intolerant cheeses. These cheeses are not only healthy, they also taste the same, and would make a healthy addition to any meal. Well, why not try out the positively delicious lactose free cheeses and start having some pleasure in eating again?

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