Andy Montoya
When it comes to battling the common cold, one of the age-old questions is what to eat and what to avoid. Dairy products, including cheese, are often ruled out due to the belief that they increase mucus production and worsen congestion. However, evidence supporting this claim is mixed, with some studies finding no link between milk consumption and increased mucus secretion. While full-fat cheese options can trigger inflammation, they may also help soothe a sore throat associated with a cold. Ultimately, the decision to consume cheese when battling a cold may depend on individual preferences and tolerance, as some people find dairy products comforting, while others experience discomfort.
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What You'll Learn
- Dairy foods like cheese are thought to be mucus-causing, but there's little evidence
- Époisses is a French cheese with a profound stink and delicious taste
- Gouda is a versatile cheese, wonderful both melted and cold
- Burrata is a decadent Italian cheese, best eaten fresh
- Swiss cheese is the name for emmental, a sweet, tangy cheese with holes
Dairy foods like cheese are thought to be mucus-causing, but there's little evidence
Dairy foods, including cheese, have long been thought to cause mucus production and make congestion worse when you're sick with a cold. However, there is little evidence to support this claim. While some people believe that drinking milk or consuming other dairy products can stimulate mucus production and aggravate symptoms, studies investigating this link have found no significant correlation. One such study, published in the American Review of Respiratory Diseases, observed no difference in nasal mucus quantity between participants with colds who drank milk and those who did not.
The perception that dairy increases mucus may be attributed to the texture of the fluid. Milk and other dairy products have a thicker consistency, which some people associate with increased mucus production. However, this sensation is not due to the body producing more mucus but rather the coating effect of the fluid itself. Additionally, while dairy may not directly cause mucus, it can provide comfort and nourishment during a cold. Dairy products like milk, yogurt, and even ice cream can help soothe a sore throat, a common symptom of the cold.
Warm milk, in particular, has been touted for its potential benefits. Golden milk, a concoction of warm milk with a small amount of ground turmeric and honey, may possess anti-inflammatory properties thanks to the active ingredient curcumin in turmeric. This anti-inflammatory action could help reduce the duration of your cold. Furthermore, milk and other dairy products provide essential nutrients like vitamin D and calcium, which can help maintain energy levels while your body recovers.
While dairy may not be a mucus-causing culprit, it's important to note that individual sensitivities exist. For example, individuals with lactose intolerance may experience increased respiratory mucus production when consuming dairy. Additionally, some people may find that dairy irritates their throat during a cold, so it's essential to listen to your body and make adjustments as needed.
In summary, while dairy foods like cheese have long been suspected of causing mucus, the evidence supporting this claim is scarce. Dairy products may even offer some relief from cold symptoms, especially when it comes to soothing sore throats. However, individual variations exist, and some people may find that dairy doesn't agree with them during a cold. As always, it's important to listen to your body and consult with a healthcare professional if you have specific concerns or conditions.
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Époisses is a French cheese with a profound stink and delicious taste
The Berthaut family, specifically Robert and Simone Berthaut, revived the formula for Époisses in the 1950s. The Berthauts are now credited with almost single-handedly reviving the village's historic cheese. Today, the bulk of Époisses is produced by the Berthauts, although several other artisanal cheesemakers in the region also manufacture it. The Berthauts' brand is now most commonly associated with the cheese.
To make Époisses, milk is heated to 30°C (86°F) and held at that temperature for 16 hours. The curds are then cut into rough chunks and placed in moulds to drain. After two days, the young cheeses are salted and set aside on racks to dry. As the cheese ages, it is washed and brushed by hand up to three times per week with a mixture of water, salt, and Marc de Bourgogne, a local pomace brandy. This process gives Époisses its distinctive orange-red rind and intense flavour.
Époisses is typically sold in a small wooden box to contain its scoopable paste. The cheese has a creamy texture and is known for its strong, salty, and savoury taste. It pairs well with sweet contrasts, such as red wine or fruit spreads. It can also be enjoyed with crackers, bread, or pickles.
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Gouda is a versatile cheese, wonderful both melted and cold
Gouda is a versatile cheese with a rich and smoky flavour. It is a semi-hard to hard cheese with a smooth texture and a slightly grainy feel. Gouda is a wonderful option for those who enjoy a nutty flavour. It is a great addition to cheese boards and can be grated, sliced, cubed, or melted.
Gouda is a popular choice for sandwiches, hot meals, and French onion soup. Its ability to melt well makes it a favourite for those who want to add a savoury flavour to their dishes without overpowering other ingredients. Gouda's versatility extends to its production, as it can be made from goat, sheep, or cow's milk.
When enjoyed cold, Gouda offers a delightful contrast with its smooth flavour and slightly grainy texture. It pairs well with various foods and can be a great snack or appetizer. The nutty flavour of Gouda also shines through when served cold, making it a tasty and nutritious option.
The versatility of Gouda cheese makes it a popular choice for cheese lovers. Its ability to be enjoyed both melted and cold, as well as its adaptability to different dishes, makes it a staple in many kitchens. Whether you're looking for a rich and smoky flavour or a smooth and nutty taste, Gouda is a wonderful option to elevate your culinary creations.
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Burrata is a decadent Italian cheese, best eaten fresh
Burrata is best enjoyed within a day of being made, as it does not keep well, even when refrigerated. To experience the full range of flavours, it is recommended to serve burrata at room temperature. Remove it from the refrigerator at least half an hour before serving to allow it to warm up slightly.
There are endless ways to enjoy burrata, but some classic combinations include serving it alongside ripe tomatoes, basil, and crusty bread with a drizzle of olive oil. It also pairs well with sweet dishes, such as a stone fruit and burrata salad with nectarines, plums, peaches, and heirloom tomatoes, or a cherry and peach panzanella with croutons, basil, and a lemon champagne vinaigrette. For a savoury option, try spring pea crostini with layers of toasted bread, pea and mint pesto, burrata, and prosciutto.
Burrata's versatility extends beyond salads and appetizers. It can be added to pasta dishes, such as tomato basil gnocchi or creamy tomato burrata pasta, or used as a topping for pizza. Its creamy texture and mild flavour make it a perfect addition to enhance the flavour of other ingredients without overwhelming them.
Whether enjoyed simply with fresh tomatoes and basil or incorporated into more complex dishes, burrata is a decadent and indulgent cheese that is best appreciated when fresh. Its unique texture and flavour profile make it a standout among Italian cheeses, and its ability to elevate both sweet and savoury dishes is truly remarkable.
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Swiss cheese is the name for emmental, a sweet, tangy cheese with holes
Emmental has a mildly buttery flavour, with some describing it as fruity. It is formed with naturally occurring holes, which are created by bacteria during the fermentation process. The propionic bacteria feed on the lactic acid and release carbon dioxide, which gets trapped in the rind and slowly forms holes. The size of the holes does not affect the flavour.
Emmental is usually consumed cold, as chunks or slices, and is also used in various dishes, such as gratins and fondue. It has good melting properties, making it perfect for sauces and dishes that require melted cheese, like grilled cheese sandwiches, pasta, and egg dishes.
When purchasing Emmental, the cheese's origin is often printed on the rind. Swiss Emmenthal is moderate to expensive in price, depending on the length of ageing. It can be purchased in well-stocked supermarkets or specialty stores.
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Frequently asked questions
There is no clear answer to this question. While some sources claim that dairy products like cheese can increase mucus production and make congestion worse, others argue that there is little evidence to support this claim. If you are lactose intolerant, however, it is best to avoid cheese and other dairy products as they may worsen your symptoms.
Cheese can provide some nutritional benefits that may help support your body's recovery. For example, it is a source of protein, calcium, and other vitamins and minerals. However, the high saturated fat content in cheese can trigger inflammation, especially if you already have a gluten sensitivity.
It is generally recommended to choose lower-fat varieties of cheese when sick with a cold, as full-fat cheeses tend to be higher in inflammation-triggering saturated fats. Soft, fresh cheeses like ricotta or cottage cheese may be easier to eat if you are experiencing a sore throat.
Yes, yogurt is another dairy product that may help soothe a sore throat and ease cold symptoms. Milk can also be beneficial if you enjoy the sensation of drinking it, but it will not cure your cold. Just be mindful of your body's response, as some people find that dairy products leave them feeling more uncomfortable when they are sick.
Yes, focusing on anti-inflammatory and antioxidant-rich foods can help reduce inflammation and support your immune system. This includes fruits and vegetables like oranges, lemons, limes, kale, broccoli, cranberries, and blueberries. Soft, easy-to-swallow foods can also help soothe a sore throat.
