Randy Chandler
Lactose intolerance is a common condition that affects around 65% of the global population. It occurs when the body does not produce enough of the enzyme lactase, which is responsible for breaking down lactose, a sugar found in dairy products. Fortunately, for those who are lactose intolerant, there are many lactose-free and low-lactose cheese options available, so you don't have to give up your favourite cheesy dishes completely.
Lactose-Free Cheese Characteristics
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Lactose Content | 0-3% |
| Varieties | Armstrong's Lactose-Free Marble Cheddar Cheese Block, Armstrong's Lactose-Free Triple Cheddar Shredded Cheese, Swiss Cheese Slices, Colby, Monterey Jack, Mozzarella, Parmesan, Muenster, Camembert, Gouda, Blue Cheese, Provolone |
| Consumption Tips | Eat in moderation, pair with crispy apples, sweet figs, crunchy almonds, dried fruit, or dark chocolate |
| Symptoms of Lactose Intolerance | Bloating, gas, cramping, stomach pain |
| Remedies | Over-the-counter lactase supplements, drinking water, avoiding lactose |
| Other Lactose-Free Dairy Products | Milk, yogurt, kefir |
| Other Lactose-Free Foods | Butter |
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What You'll Learn
Lactose-free cheese: a culinary delight
Lactose-free cheese is a culinary delight that has opened up a world of possibilities for those with lactose intolerance. While lactose intolerance can be a challenging condition to navigate, especially for those who love dairy products, lactose-free cheese offers a delicious solution.
Lactose intolerance affects a significant portion of the population, with approximately 18% of Canadians suffering from this condition. It occurs when the body does not produce enough of the digestive enzyme lactase, which is responsible for breaking down lactose, a sugar found in dairy products. This can lead to uncomfortable digestive issues such as bloating, gas, cramping, and stomach pain.
However, thanks to lactose-free cheese, those with lactose intolerance can still enjoy their favorite cheesy dishes without sacrificing taste or texture. Lactose-free cheese is crafted with love and innovation, ensuring that it delivers the same delightful flavors and creamy textures as traditional cheese. From casseroles to pizzas and grilled cheese sandwiches, lactose-free cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes.
There are several types of cheeses that are naturally lower in lactose and can be enjoyed by most lactose-intolerant individuals. Aged cheeses, such as Swiss, cheddar, Colby, mozzarella, and Parmesan, undergo an extensive aging process that breaks down most of the lactose, making them excellent choices. These cheeses have a lactose range of 0-3.2%, allowing those with lactose intolerance to indulge in their favorite dishes in moderation.
In addition to natural cheeses, there are also specially made lactose-free cheese options available. Brands like Armstrong Cheese offer a range of lactose-free cheeses, including Marble Cheddar, Triple Cheddar Shredded Cheese, and Swiss Cheese Slices, that are perfect for creating lactose-free comfort foods like mac and cheese, chili mac, and cheese sandwiches.
Lactose-free cheese is not just a substitute, but a culinary star in its own right. It opens up a world of flavor and creativity, allowing those with lactose intolerance to explore new dishes and enjoy old favorites without digestive discomfort. So, whether it's a creamy mac 'n' cheese, a warm pan of lasagne, or a simple grilled cheese sandwich, lactose-free cheese is a delightful option that brings joy and comfort to the table.
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Lactose intolerance: what causes it
Lactose intolerance is a digestive condition that occurs when the body does not produce enough of the enzyme lactase, which is needed to break down and digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and other dairy products. Lactose intolerance is different from a milk allergy, which is an immune response to milk proteins. While lactose intolerance is typically harmless, it can cause uncomfortable symptoms such as bloating, gas, diarrhoea, nausea, and abdominal pain.
Lactose intolerance is caused by lactose malabsorption, which happens when the small intestine does not produce enough lactase. This can be due to genetic factors, injury, or disease. Lactose intolerance is most common in people of African, Asian, Hispanic, and American Indian descent, and it often runs in families. It usually appears in adulthood, although it can affect both children and adults.
The symptoms of lactose intolerance occur when undigested lactose passes into the colon, where bacteria break it down and create fluid and gas. These symptoms can be managed by changing the diet, such as choosing lactose-free or low-lactose dairy products, or by taking lactase supplements. Aged cheeses like Parmesan, cheddar, and Swiss have low lactose levels, making them suitable for most people with lactose intolerance.
For those with lactose intolerance, it is important to carefully read food labels as lactose is often added to boxed, canned, frozen, and prepared foods. However, with the right choices, people with lactose intolerance can still enjoy their favourite cheesy dishes without discomfort. Lactose-free cheese options are available, and natural cheeses such as Cheddar, Colby, Monterey Jack, Mozzarella, and Swiss contain minimal amounts of lactose.
Overall, lactose intolerance is a common condition that can be managed by making informed dietary choices and incorporating lactose-free or low-lactose alternatives, allowing those affected to enjoy their favourite foods without sacrificing taste or nutrition.
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Low-lactose cheeses: what to eat
Lactose intolerance is a common digestive issue, affecting about 65% of the global population. It occurs when the body doesn't produce enough of the lactase enzyme, which breaks down lactose, a sugar found in dairy products. While managing lactose intolerance, it's essential to distinguish it from a dairy allergy, as the two conditions require different dietary approaches.
The good news is that lactose-intolerant individuals don't have to give up cheese entirely. There are plenty of low-lactose cheese options that can be enjoyed in moderation, allowing cheese lovers to savour their favourite cheesy dishes with minimal digestive discomfort.
When selecting cheeses, aim for those with 0 to a little over 3% lactose. Aged, hard cheeses with lower sugar content, such as Parmesan, cheddar, Swiss, Colby, mozzarella, and provolone, are excellent choices due to their extensive aging process, which breaks down most of the lactose. For example, Parmesan has a 0-3.2% lactose range, while cheddar and provolone have a 0-2.1% range. Other low-lactose options include Gouda (0-2.2% lactose range), Muenster (0-1.1% lactose range), and blue cheese (0-2.5% lactose range).
In addition to natural cheeses, lactose-free cheese products are available, such as Armstrong's Lactose-Free Marble Cheddar Cheese Block and their Lactose-Free Triple Cheddar Shredded Cheese, perfect for lactose-free au gratin dishes and mac and cheese. These cheeses offer the same wonderful flavours and textures as traditional cheese, ensuring that lactose intolerance doesn't compromise taste.
It's worth noting that lactose-free cheese can be more than just a substitute; it can be a culinary star in its own right. Experiment with pairing lactose-free cheeses with crispy apples, sweet figs, crunchy almonds, dried fruit, or dark chocolate to create unique and delightful culinary experiences.
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Lactose-free recipes: cooking with cheese
Lactose intolerance is a common condition, affecting about 18% of Canadians. It occurs when the body doesn't produce enough of the enzyme lactase, which breaks down lactose, a sugar found in dairy products. While it may seem impossible to enjoy cheese when lactose intolerant, there are many delicious lactose-free and low-lactose cheese options available. These can be used in cooking just like regular cheese, allowing you to savour your favourite cheesy dishes without discomfort.
Aged Cheeses
Aged, hard cheeses tend to have lower sugar content and are easier on the stomach. Due to their extensive aging process, these cheeses lose most of their lactose and are suitable for most lactose-intolerant people. Some examples include:
- Parmesan: This cheese has a 0-3.2% lactose range. It adds a tangy flavour to pasta dishes and is also great on pizza, in scrambled eggs, or on breaded chicken.
- Cheddar: With a 0-2.1% lactose range, cheddar is a nutty, crumbly cheese that works well in macaroni and cheese, as a cheese sauce, or in cheese puffs. It can also be melted into creamy mac 'n' cheese.
- Swiss Cheese: This cheese, with a 0-2.2% lactose range, is great for deluxe sandwiches and casseroles.
- Colby: While not completely lactose-free, Colby is considered low in lactose.
Semi-Soft Cheeses
Some semi-soft cheeses have very low lactose content and are perfect for those with lactose intolerance. Examples include:
- Muenster: With a 0-1.1% lactose range, this mild and slightly nutty cheese is typically made with cow's milk. It can be used as a topping on pizza, grilled on toast, or in mac 'n' cheese.
- Gouda: Gouda has a 0-2.2% lactose range and is great on a cheese platter or in grilled cheese.
Other Options
In addition to the cheeses mentioned above, there are some other low-lactose options that can be enjoyed in moderation:
- Blue Cheese: With a 0-2.5% lactose range, this pungent, salty cheese can be crumbled over a salad or grain bowl or used to make a dipping sauce.
- Provolone: With a 0-2.1% lactose range, buttery provolone is great for sandwiches, casseroles, and homemade pizza.
- Camembert: This cheese is a delicious addition to a lactose-free diet plan.
Lactose-Free Recipes
- Lactose-Free Mac and Cheese: Use lactose-free cheddar cheese to make a delicious and creamy mac and cheese.
- Chili Mac and Cheese: Combine lactose-free cheddar cheese with meat chili for a flavourful twist on a classic.
- Chicken and Cheddar Rice: Lactose-free cheddar cheese adds a tasty, cheesy element to this comforting dish.
- Lasagne: Fold lactose-free mozzarella into a warm pan of lasagne for a delicious, cheesy treat.
- Pizza: Top a pizza with lactose-free mozzarella or Muenster cheese for a classic, crowd-pleasing dish.
- Sandwiches: Provolone or Swiss cheese slices make a great addition to sandwiches.
By choosing lactose-free or low-lactose cheeses and getting creative in the kitchen, people with lactose intolerance can continue to enjoy cheese and include it in their favourite recipes.
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Lactose-free dairy: milk, yoghurt, cheese
Lactose-free milk is a great alternative for people who are lactose intolerant and cannot digest regular milk. It contains lactase, an enzyme that helps break down lactose, and has almost the same taste, texture, and nutrients as regular milk. Lactose-free milk is produced by adding lactase to regular cow's milk. This makes it easier to digest for those with lactose intolerance. Lactose-free milk can be used in the same way as regular milk and can be swapped into recipes without missing out on any key nutrients. It is a good source of protein, calcium, phosphorus, vitamin B12, riboflavin, and vitamin D.
Lactose-free yoghurt is another alternative for those who are lactose intolerant. It can be used as a substitute for sour cream or buttermilk in recipes, providing a healthy option for breakfast or snacks. Lactose-free yoghurt is available in a variety of options, including organic, low-fat, and Greek strained yoghurt.
Lactose-free cheese is also available for those who are lactose intolerant. Hard or semi-hard yellow cheeses, such as Cheddar, Havarti, Gouda, and Emmental, are good options as they have lower levels of lactose. This is because most of the milk water (whey) that contains lactose is drained during production, and the added lactic acid bacteria digest most of the remaining lactose. Other lactose-free cheese options include Muenster, Provolone, Blue Cheese, Parmesan, and Swiss Cheese. These cheeses have a lactose range of 0% to 3.2%, making them suitable for those with lactose intolerance when consumed in moderation.
Lactose intolerance is a common condition where the body does not produce enough of the lactase enzyme to digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and other dairy products. Lactose-free dairy products are produced in a special way to help people with lactose intolerance digest dairy without stomach pains. While some people with lactose intolerance may be able to tolerate small amounts of lactose, others may need to strictly avoid lactose-containing foods to prevent digestive issues such as abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhoea, and vomiting.
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Frequently asked questions
Lactose-free cheeses include aged cheddar, parmesan, gouda, blue cheese, provolone, muenster, and pepper jack.
Lactose is a sugar found in milk, so lactose-free cheeses are those with little to no sugar. Aged cheeses are often lactose-free because the lactose breaks down as the cheese ages.
Yes, most people with lactose intolerance can tolerate dairy products that are naturally low in lactose. Lactose-intolerant people can usually eat hard cheeses such as cheddar, colby, Swiss, mozzarella, and Monterey Jack.
