Patrick Oconnell
Parmesan cheese is a hard cheese that is packed with calcium, protein, and vitamins. However, some people experience diarrhea after consuming it. This could be due to lactose intolerance, a dairy allergy, or sensitivity, or the consumption of Parmesan cheese in large quantities. In the United States, certain brands of Parmesan cheese also contain additives like cellulose powder and potassium sorbate, which in large amounts, can cause diarrhea.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Diarrhea caused by lactose intolerance | Common symptoms include stomach pain, bloating, gas, nausea, vomiting, and headaches |
| Diarrhea caused by food poisoning | Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, cramps, chills, and headaches |
| Diarrhea caused by overconsumption of Parmesan cheese | Potassium sorbate and cellulose powder, added to Parmesan cheese, can cause diarrhea when consumed in large quantities |
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What You'll Learn
Parmesan is virtually lactose-free in small servings
Parmesan is a hard, aged cheese that is naturally low in lactose. The amount of lactose in a cheese depends on its age, with younger cheeses containing more lactose. During the ageing process, the lactose in the cheese changes to lactic acid, which is why older cheeses like Parmesan, Asiago, and Romano are naturally lactose-free. Parmigiano Reggiano, the traditional Italian version of Parmesan, is made without the use of additives and preservatives and is also lactose-free.
However, some people who are lactose intolerant still experience digestive issues after consuming Parmesan. This may be due to the presence of whey, a protein in dairy that can cause symptoms similar to lactose intolerance. Additionally, the version of Parmesan commonly found in America may contain additives such as cellulose powder and potassium sorbate, which can cause diarrhea when consumed in large amounts.
Furthermore, the amount of cheese consumed may also be a factor. While small servings of 1 to 2 ounces of Parmesan are considered virtually lactose-free, larger amounts may exceed an individual's lactose tolerance level. It is important to note that everyone's tolerance level is different, and some people may be more sensitive to lactose or other components in Parmesan.
If you experience diarrhea or other digestive issues after consuming Parmesan, it is recommended to seek medical advice and consider testing for lactose intolerance or dairy allergy. A dietitian can also provide guidance on trying a FODMAP elimination diet to identify specific triggers for your symptoms.
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Potassium sorbate and cellulose powder in some Parmesan products may cause diarrhea
Although Parmesan cheese is virtually lactose-free, consuming it may cause diarrhea due to various reasons. One possible reason is an allergy or sensitivity to the specific proteins found in dairy products, which can lead to digestive issues such as diarrhea.
Another factor could be the presence of additives in some Parmesan products, such as potassium sorbate and cellulose powder. Potassium sorbate is generally regarded as safe by regulatory agencies and is used as a preservative in food and personal care items. While it is considered safe for most people, rare allergic reactions to potassium sorbate have been reported, particularly with cosmetics and personal products, causing skin or scalp irritation. However, it is important to note that when consumed as a food additive, it passes through the body harmlessly.
Cellulose powder, on the other hand, is a filler often made from wood pulp and added to Parmesan cheese to reduce costs and mimic the characteristics of more luxurious cheese. While cellulose is safe to consume and provides the necessary non-digestible vegetable fiber, some individuals may experience digestive issues when consuming large amounts of cellulose or in combination with other factors.
If you experience diarrhea after consuming Parmesan cheese, it is advisable to seek medical advice and consider testing for lactose intolerance, dairy allergy, or sensitivity to additives such as potassium sorbate.
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Food poisoning from Parmesan
Some people may experience diarrhoea after eating Parmesan cheese, especially if they have a health condition or are lactose intolerant. In the United States, some brands of Parmesan cheese contain additives such as cellulose powder and potassium sorbate, which can cause diarrhoea in large quantities. However, it is important to note that cheese is not the only food that can cause diarrhoea, and a high-fat, low-fibre diet can also contribute to digestive issues.
If you suspect food poisoning from Parmesan cheese, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of food poisoning may include diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, cramps, and headaches. It is also possible to experience mild indigestion from eating a small amount of contaminated cheese if you have a healthy immune system.
To prevent food poisoning from Parmesan cheese, it is important to purchase cheese that is not close to its expiration date and to store it properly. Parmesan cheese can be wrapped in cheese paper or wax paper to enhance its flavour and prevent moisture. Freezing Parmesan cheese is also an option, as it freezes and thaws quite well.
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Lactose intolerance
The signs and symptoms of lactose intolerance typically manifest between 30 minutes to two hours after consuming lactose-containing foods or beverages. Common symptoms include diarrhea, bloating, abdominal pain, gas, and nausea. It is important to note that the severity and specific symptoms can vary among individuals. While lactose intolerance can cause discomfort, it is generally a harmless condition. However, it may affect an individual's health if it leads to a deficiency in essential nutrients like calcium and vitamin D.
The diagnosis of lactose intolerance begins with a medical professional taking a detailed history, including symptoms, family history, and dietary habits. Physical examinations and specific tests, such as the hydrogen breath test and lactose tolerance test, may also be employed to confirm the diagnosis. While there is currently no cure for lactose intolerance, symptoms can be effectively managed through dietary modifications. Most individuals with lactose intolerance can still consume small amounts of lactose without experiencing adverse effects. Working with a dietitian can help individuals identify suitable dietary options and ensure they are obtaining adequate nutrients.
Regarding Parmesan cheese specifically, it is worth noting that it is considered virtually lactose-free in small servings (1-2 ounces). Therefore, while lactose intolerance may be a potential explanation for diarrhea after consuming Parmesan cheese, it is important to consider other factors as well, such as the consumption of large quantities or individual sensitivity. Additionally, in the United States, some commercially available Parmesan cheese products may contain additives like cellulose powder and potassium sorbate, which, in excessive amounts, can also contribute to diarrhea.
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Other kinds of malabsorption, medications, infections, inflammatory bowel diseases, or allergies
Diarrhea can be a symptom of other kinds of malabsorption, medications, infections, inflammatory bowel diseases, or allergies.
Malabsorption syndrome can have a wide range of underlying causes and effects. It occurs when food moves too quickly through your bowels for nutrients to be absorbed, leading to gastrointestinal distress. Malabsorption can cause malnutrition and deficiencies in macronutrients like protein, fats, and carbohydrates, as well as micronutrients such as vitamins and minerals. Bile acid malabsorption, for example, can result from diseases of the gallbladder, bile ducts, or liver, leading to chronic diarrhea. Treatment for malabsorption may involve supplemental nutrition or addressing the underlying cause, such as food intolerances or infections.
Medications can also commonly cause diarrhea. Antibiotics, for instance, are known to bring about diarrhea, possibly due to their impact on bacteria that aid in food digestion. Chemotherapy drugs can also lead to diarrhea by altering how the body breaks down food. Other medications linked to diarrhea include lithium for mood disorders, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, metformin for type 2 diabetes, and colchicine for gout.
Infections can also lead to diarrhea. For instance, a serious bacterial infection called Clostridium difficile (C. difficile) is known to cause diarrhea.
Inflammatory bowel diseases, such as celiac disease and general inflammatory bowel disease, can cause malabsorption of nutrients and diarrhea.
Lastly, allergies can cause gastrointestinal problems, including diarrhea. Seasonal allergies can lead to an overactive immune response, releasing histamine into the gut and causing muscle contractions in the digestive system, resulting in abdominal cramps and diarrhea. Food allergies can also trigger an immune response, causing inflammation and irritation in the digestive system, which can lead to diarrhea. Pollen food allergy syndrome (PFAS) is a type of allergy where the body's immune system identifies proteins in certain foods as similar to pollen proteins, leading to allergic reactions and potential diarrhea.
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Frequently asked questions
Parmesan cheese is often part of high-fat meals, and if consumed in large quantities, it could trigger diarrhea for some people. However, it is good for health in moderate amounts.
If you are lactose intolerant, you can still include many cheeses in your diet in moderate amounts. Parmesan, cheddar, Swiss, provolone, Brie, feta, and low-moisture mozzarella are virtually lactose-free in 1- to 2-ounce servings.
According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), most bouts of diarrhea are caused by a virus or bacteria. However, certain foods like dairy, coffee, and spicy food can also cause diarrhea.
The best way to identify the cause of diarrhea is to keep a food diary. Write down everything you eat in a day, along with the time, and then note when you have symptoms. This will help you identify any food triggers.
Parmesan cheese is good for health in moderate amounts as it provides calcium, protein, and other essential vitamins and minerals. However, some brands of Parmesan cheese in the United States add cellulose powder and potassium sorbate, which, when consumed in large quantities, can cause diarrhea and nutrient depletion.
