An NHS doctor has shed light on the types of cheese that are suitable for those with lactose intolerance.
Dr Karan Rajan, an NHS surgeon and lecturer, recently explored the cheeses that can be “eaten with impunity”.
Lactose intolerance is a condition where individuals cannot fully digest the sugar (lactose) in certain foods, primarily dairy products, reports the Daily Record.
However, some processed foods like cereals, baked goods such as bread, crackers, cakes, biscuits, and pastries, sauces and salad dressings, and diet and protein shakes may also contain lactose.
Symptoms of lactose intolerance can start a few minutes or a few hours after consuming food or drink containing lactose.
These symptoms can include stomach pain or discomfort, bloating, flatulence, diarrhoea or constipation, and nausea or vomiting.
In a TikTok video, Dr Rajan listed the cheeses and explained: “Parmesan, virtually lactose free. This is because the milk is curdled by adding enzymes like rennet, this combined with bacteria initiates a fermentation process which reduces the amount of lactose present.
“Pecorino, generally the drier, harder cheeses have the majority of the liquid part of the milk, the whey, removed. And whey contains the majority of lactose.
“As the whey is separated, the lactose content in the cheese reduces significantly, as opposed to the softer, moister cheeses like feta or mozzarella which have a higher lactose content.”
Dr Rajan highlighted stilton as a favourable choice due to its lactic acid bacteria, which transform lactose into lactic acid, subsequently lowering the lactose content and enriching its distinctive taste.
He shared: “In addition, fermenting bacteria present in stilton and Swiss cheese produce anti-inflammatory short chain fatty acids like butyrate, which protect the gut lining and contribute to the smell of stinky, cheesy feet.”
Moreover, mature cheddar was suggested as a potential option for those with sensitivities.
Its extensive ageing process changes the protein structure, affecting how the body responds to it.
“Camembert. The presence of high amounts of fat in cheeses like camembert can slow down the absorption and digestion of any remnant lactose in the cheese,” stated the doctor.
“This means it’s more likely to be better tolerated by individuals with lactose intolerance.”
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