Randy Chandler
Goat cheese is a popular alternative to cow's cheese, especially in Southern California, where it has become a staple among cheese lovers. It is also recommended by some practitioners as a treatment for heavy phlegm, eczema, and other medical conditions. However, there is little scientific data to support these claims. While some people believe that dairy products can cause mucus buildup and increased phlegm, others argue that there is little evidence to support this claim. This article will explore the topic of whether goat cheese causes phlegm and provide information on the potential benefits and drawbacks of consuming goat cheese.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Goat cheese causing phlegm | There is little scientific evidence to support the claim that goat cheese causes phlegm. However, some people claim that goat cheese helps with heavy phlegm. |
| Goat cheese and allergies | Goat cheese is virtually lactose-free, making it a suitable option for those with lactose intolerance. |
| Goat cheese and taste | The taste of goat cheese varies greatly depending on the genetics, handling, and diet of the goats. Some people dislike the taste of goat cheese due to its strong, musky flavor, while others find it delicious and slightly sweet or salty. |
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What You'll Learn
Goat cheese is recommended by some practitioners to treat heavy phlegm
While some people believe that dairy products cause mucus buildup, there is little evidence to support this claim. A July 2018 study in the BMJ found no link between milk and mucus secretion. Instead, the thick, creamy texture of dairy products can create the illusion of increased phlegm.
However, it is true that people with allergies to dairy are more likely to experience asthma with excess phlegm. This is due to the proteins in milk that cause allergic reactions, although medical experts have questioned this idea. Some people are sensitive to protein fragments called casomorphins, which are derived from milk digestion in the gut. Beta-casomorphin-7 (BCM7) is associated with increased histamine production, which can lead to asthma and increased phlegm.
Goat cheese, specifically fresh varieties, is lower in fat than cow's milk cheese. Goat's milk has smaller protein molecules and thinner fat molecules, making it easier to digest than cow's milk. It is also free of BCM7, which is known to cause harm. For these reasons, some practitioners recommend goat cheese as a treatment for heavy phlegm.
While there is limited scientific data to support these claims, some individuals have found success in reducing phlegm by consuming goat cheese. Singer Ron Gertz, for example, turned to goat cheese on the advice of his doctor, who is also a homeopath. Gertz reports that, unlike regular dairy products, goat cheese does not cause sinus congestion or stomach aches.
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Goat cheese is virtually lactose-free
While there is no evidence that cheese causes mucus secretion, some people may still experience excess phlegm after consuming dairy products. This could be due to an underlying condition or an intolerance to dairy.
If you are one of the 75% of people who are lactose intolerant, you may be pleased to know that goat cheese is virtually lactose-free. The enzymes used in the cheese-making process break down lactose over time, so aged cheeses like Parmesan have very little lactose left. Goat cheese is made from goat's milk, which is naturally gluten-free and considered vegetarian. The flavour of goat cheese varies depending on the genetics, handling, and diet of the goats, but some people find it indistinguishable from cow's milk cheese.
Goat cheese can be a good option for those who are lactose intolerant or looking to reduce their lactose intake. However, it's important to note that not all lactose-intolerant individuals will react the same way to goat cheese, as the level of intolerance can vary. Additionally, some people may simply dislike the taste of goat cheese, which can vary greatly between different products and farms.
If you are experiencing excess phlegm or other adverse reactions after consuming goat cheese, it is recommended to keep a food diary and monitor your symptoms. This can help you identify any trigger foods and determine if an underlying condition or intolerance is the cause.
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Goat cheese is lower in fat than cow's milk cheese
Goat cheese is made from goat's milk and is a healthier alternative to cheese made from cow's milk. One of the key benefits of goat's milk is that it is easy to digest, and as a result, goat cheese is gentle on the gut. Goat cheese has lower levels of lactose, sodium, and fat than cow's milk cheese.
Goat cheese is an ideal replacement for high-fat cow's milk cheese. The fatty acids in goat cheese are metabolized faster than in cow's milk cheese, which means the body feels full faster. Goat cheese is also a good source of calcium, an essential nutrient for bones, teeth, and organs. A diet high in calcium can help prevent osteoporosis and other bone disorders.
Goat cheese is also a good source of selenium, a trace mineral that is usually found in seafood. Selenium helps the body break down DNA-damaging peroxides, which can lower the risk of developing conditions like cancer, thyroid disease, and cardiovascular disease. Goat cheese is also high in riboflavin, or vitamin B2, which is important for the production and functioning of new cells.
Goat cheese is versatile and can be used in place of cow's milk cheese in practically any recipe. It is easy to find in most supermarkets and health food stores. However, some people may dislike the taste of goat cheese, as the flavor is heavily influenced by the genetics, handling, and diet of the goats involved. It may be an acquired taste, as some people find the taste of goat's milk products unappealing.
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Goat cheese is easier to digest than cow's milk cheese
There are several reasons why goat cheese is considered easier to digest than cow's milk cheese. Firstly, goat milk has a higher proportion of smaller-chain fats, which are easier for the human body to process. The fat globules in goat milk are smaller and less likely to separate, making it naturally homogenized and easier on the digestive system.
Goat milk also contains more lipase enzymes, which break down fat and contribute to the distinctive flavour and aroma of goat cheese. The protein composition in goat milk differs from that of cow milk, with lower levels of the protein responsible for forming a 'firm' curd in cheese-making. As a result, goat milk produces a more delicate and fragile curd, leading to smaller, fresher, and slightly 'tart' cheeses.
The nutritional content of goat milk also sets it apart from cow milk. Goat milk is an excellent source of protein, calcium, potassium, phosphorous, magnesium, and vitamin A. It has higher fat and calorie content than cow milk, but the percentages of fat, protein, and lactose are broadly similar between the two types of milk. However, goat milk fully digests the carotene colouring in grass, resulting in white milk and cheese, whereas cow milk and cheese can have a yellow hue.
While individual preferences play a significant role in choosing between goat and cow cheese, it is important to note that some people with cow milk allergies or intolerances can consume goat milk products without experiencing adverse reactions. This is due to the lower lactose levels and different protein forms in goat milk. However, it is worth noting that goat milk and cheese can still contain similar levels of lactose, and individual sensitivities may vary.
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Dairy products are associated with increased mucus production
Dairy products are often associated with increased mucus production, but is this claim true?
Mucus is a slippery, wet secretion produced by specialized membranes in the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts. It is made up of a mixture of glycoproteins and water, and it also contains antiseptic enzymes, immunoglobulins, inorganic salts, proteins, and mucins. Mucus is essential for protecting the body from invasion by fungi, bacteria, and viruses. On average, the healthy human nose produces about a liter of mucus per day.
Phlegm refers to the thicker mucus associated with inflammation in the nasal passages, throat, and lungs. While mucus is essential for health, excess phlegm can be a symptom of an underlying condition. Chronic bronchitis, asthma, cystic fibrosis, irritable bowel syndrome, and certain infections can cause excess mucus production.
Some people believe that dairy products, particularly milk and cheese, contribute to increased mucus production. However, according to a 2018 study in the BMJ, there is no evidence that milk directly causes mucus secretion. Instead, the thick, creamy texture of dairy products may create the illusion of increased phlegm. Additionally, while dairy allergies can cause symptoms such as hives, throat swelling, and a drop in blood pressure, they are not typically associated with increased mucus production.
Goat cheese, a popular alternative to cow's milk cheese, has been anecdotally linked to reduced phlegm. Some people who are allergic to cow's milk find that they can tolerate goat cheese without experiencing increased phlegm or other allergic symptoms. However, nutritionists and allergists note that there is limited scientific data to support these claims. While goat cheese may be lower in fat than cow's milk cheese, mainstream doctors and dietitians do not attribute any significant medical benefits to goat cheese consumption.
In conclusion, while dairy products are often associated with increased mucus production, there is little evidence to support a direct link between the two. The perceived increase in phlegm after consuming dairy may be due to the texture of dairy products or individual allergies and sensitivities. For those who believe dairy affects their mucus production, limiting dairy intake or switching to alternative milk sources, such as goat or sheep's milk, may be recommended.
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Frequently asked questions
There is little scientific evidence to support the claim that goat cheese causes phlegm. However, some people with allergies to dairy products may experience increased phlegm and asthma. Goat cheese is often recommended as a substitute for cow's cheese in such cases.
Phlegm is caused by irritation of the mucosal lining of the respiratory tract due to allergens, air pollutants, and respiratory infections. Chronic conditions like asthma, bronchitis, and cystic fibrosis can also lead to excess mucus production.
Goat cheese is often recommended for those with lactose intolerance as it is virtually lactose-free. It is also lower in fat than cow's milk cheese.
Goat cheese is known for its strong, musky flavor, but the taste can vary greatly depending on the genetics, handling, and diet of the goats. Good-quality goat cheese can have a slightly sweet and salty taste.
