Bushra Griffith
Parmesan cheese is a hard, dry Italian cheese with a strong, nutty flavour and a grainy texture. It is made from fresh milk from the Parma/Reggio region of Italy, salt, and rennet, the latter of which is taken from the stomach linings of calves, making it unsuitable for vegetarians. Parmesan is generally considered to be good for health, containing lots of protein and calcium, and being naturally lactose-free. However, some people have reported experiencing stomach upsets after consuming it. This could be due to an allergic reaction, or because of the high sodium content in some varieties, which can cause dehydration, dizziness, stomach cramps, and nausea when consumed in large amounts.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Nutritional qualities | High in protein, calcium, phosphorus, zinc, vitamins A, B12, B2, and sodium |
| Fat content | High in saturated fat |
| Lactose content | Lactose-free |
| Allergens | Contains casein, a protein found in milk and milk products |
| Diarrhea | Caused by overconsumption, potassium sorbate, and cellulose powder |
| Stomach cramps | Caused by high sodium content |
| Nausea | Caused by high sodium content |
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What You'll Learn
- Parmesan is high in sodium, causing dehydration, dizziness, stomach cramps and nausea
- It is not lacto-vegetarian, and contains animal rennet, which can cause allergic reactions
- It is a high-fat cheese, which can increase harmful gut bacteria and cause inflammation
- It is a hard cheese, and so is more easily digestible than soft cheeses
- It is highly nutritious, with lots of protein and calcium
Parmesan is high in sodium, causing dehydration, dizziness, stomach cramps and nausea
Parmesan cheese is a hard Italian cheese with a strong, nutty flavour and a grainy texture. It is made through a traditional manufacturing process that dates back to the Middle Ages, resulting in its characteristic flavour and texture. This process involves submerging the cheese wheels in saltwater or brine, allowing for salt absorption.
While Parmesan is a nutritious cheese, providing protein, calcium, and other essential vitamins and minerals, it is also high in sodium. The high sodium content, or ingestion of large amounts of sodium in one sitting, can lead to dehydration, dizziness, stomach cramps, and nausea. These symptoms are possible outcomes of consuming excessive sodium, and moderation in intake is advised to avoid such issues.
The ripening time of Parmesan cheese, which can range from 12 to over 40 months, influences the final texture and flavour. The longer the maturation period, the more opportunity there is for salt absorption during the salting process. This extended exposure to brine may contribute to the higher sodium levels in Parmesan compared to other cheeses.
It is important to note that Parmesan is generally considered a healthy cheese, and side effects from consuming it are rare. However, as with any food, overconsumption can lead to unwanted effects. Moderation is key when it comes to enjoying Parmesan cheese and preventing potential health issues associated with excessive sodium intake.
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It is not lacto-vegetarian, and contains animal rennet, which can cause allergic reactions
Parmesan cheese, or Parmigiano-Reggiano, is a hard Italian cheese with a strong, nutty flavour and a grainy texture. It is traditionally produced in specific regions in northern Italy, including Parma, Reggio Emilia, Modena, Bologna, and Mantua. The cheese-making process involves coagulating milk with rennet, a group of animal enzymes that initiate the solidification process. Calf rennet, derived from the stomach linings of calves, is the most commonly used form of animal rennet in Parmesan cheese production.
While Parmesan cheese offers nutritional benefits, it is important to note that it is not lacto-vegetarian due to the presence of animal rennet. Rennet is typically listed as "enzymes" on food labels, and it can be assumed that these enzymes originate from animal rennet unless the packaging specifies otherwise. This distinction is significant because consuming animal rennet can potentially trigger allergic reactions in individuals who adhere to a lacto-vegetarian diet or have specific allergies.
The consumption of animal rennet-containing Parmesan cheese may cause allergic reactions in individuals with sensitivities to animal enzymes. Allergic responses can vary in severity and symptoms, ranging from mild discomfort to more acute reactions. It is essential for individuals with known allergies or dietary restrictions to carefully scrutinize food labels and opt for vegetarian alternatives, such as the BelGioioso brand, which clearly labels its Parmesan cheese as vegetarian and free of animal rennet.
The presence of animal rennet in Parmesan cheese underscores the importance of ingredient awareness, particularly for those with dietary restrictions or ethical considerations. While the traditional manufacturing process of Parmesan cheese employs animal rennet, the availability of vegetarian alternatives highlights the possibility of accommodating diverse dietary needs and preferences. Individuals who experience stomach upset after consuming Parmesan cheese may benefit from exploring vegetarian options or consulting with a healthcare professional to determine the specific cause of their reaction.
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It is a high-fat cheese, which can increase harmful gut bacteria and cause inflammation
Parmesan cheese is a high-fat cheese, providing a high number of calories per serving. While it is not a lacto-vegetarian product, it is lactose-free. Its fat content mainly provides medium- and short-chain fatty acids, which are more easily absorbed and may be used as rapid energy sources, resulting in less body fat accumulation.
However, the fat found in certain animal products can increase the growth of potentially harmful gut bacteria. A study in Nature found that a high-milk-fat diet triggered overgrowths of bilophila wadsworthia, a type of bacteria found in all human stomachs but usually kept in check. The result was severe inflammation in the colon. Another study in Nature found that a high-saturated-fat diet in humans led to increases in that same bile-loving bacteria.
While Parmesan cheese is a great source of calcium, protein, and other vitamins and minerals, its high-fat content can cause discomfort for some people. This is especially true if you are lactose intolerant or have a casein allergy, which is an allergy to the protein casein found in milk and milk products.
In addition, Parmesan cheese is quite high in sodium, with 780 mg per two ounces, representing 32.5% of the daily value. High sodium intake can cause dehydration, dizziness, stomach cramps, and nausea.
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It is a hard cheese, and so is more easily digestible than soft cheeses
Parmesan cheese is a hard cheese with a strong, nutty flavour and a grainy texture. It is produced in specific regions in northern Italy, including Parma, Reggio Emilia, Modena, Bologna, and Mantua. The manufacturing process dates back to the Middle Ages, when monks developed a dry-paste cheese that could be stored for long periods. This cheese is made with the milk of cows bred in the same area, along with salt and rennet, an animal enzyme derived from the stomach linings of calves.
Being a hard cheese, Parmesan is more easily digestible than soft cheeses. It is naturally lactose-free and packed with nutrients, including calcium, protein, phosphorus, and zinc. These nutrients support bone health, maintain healthy blood pressure, and provide rapid energy sources. However, Parmesan is also high in sodium and fat, and overconsumption can lead to negative side effects such as dehydration, dizziness, stomach cramps, and nausea.
The high-fat content in Parmesan and other dairy products can increase the growth of certain gut bacteria. A study on mice found that a high-milk-fat diet triggered severe inflammation in the colon. Similarly, a high-saturated-fat diet in humans led to an increase in bile-loving bacteria, which can be fuelled by the bile produced by our bodies to digest these fats.
Despite the potential negative effects of high-fat consumption, Parmesan cheese is generally considered a healthy option. It is classified as a functional food in Europe, indicating medicinal benefits. Its hard texture also makes it safe to cut away moldy pieces, preserving the rest of the cheese. Overall, Parmesan is a nutritious and digestible cheese when consumed in moderation.
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It is highly nutritious, with lots of protein and calcium
Parmesan cheese is highly nutritious, even when consumed in small amounts. It is rich in protein, fat, calcium, phosphorus, and zinc, all of which are essential for bone health. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals. Parmesan is a dense, dry cheese with a low water content, which makes it a great source of energy.
The nutritional characteristics of Parmesan cheese, also known as Parmigiano-Reggiano, are unique. It is a hard Italian cheese with just three ingredients: cow's milk, salt, and rennet. The manufacturing process dates back to the Middle Ages, when monks developed a dry-paste cheese assembled into large wheels weighing up to 39 pounds (18 kilograms) each. These were suited for long-term preservation. The active process of putting Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese together takes a few weeks, although the aging process takes much longer—at least one year and up to several years.
The high amount of calcium in Parmesan supports good bone health and can help prevent osteoporosis, a condition that weakens the bones. Just 1 ounce of Parmesan contains approximately 335 milligrams of calcium, which is about 26% of the daily recommended value for adults. Parmesan is also a good source of protein, which is essential for a healthy vegetarian diet. Experts suggest around 3.5 ounces of protein-rich foods, such as cheese, be included in a healthy vegetarian diet.
While Parmesan is highly nutritious, it is important to note that it is not lacto-vegetarian because it is typically made with animal rennet. However, vegetarian Parmesan does exist, and some cheesemakers use man-made rennet. It is also worth mentioning that Parmesan is naturally lactose-free, which means that people with lactose intolerance can usually enjoy it without experiencing negative side effects.
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Frequently asked questions
Parmesan cheese is usually well-tolerated, but consuming too much can lead to an upset stomach due to its high sodium content, which can cause dehydration, dizziness, stomach cramps, and nausea.
A Parmesan allergy is a type of milk allergy, specifically an allergy to casein, a protein found in milk and milk products. An allergic reaction may cause an upset stomach, among other symptoms.
If you have a sensitive stomach, you may experience gas and bloating after consuming Parmesan cheese. This is due to the lactose content of the cheese, which falls under the FODMAP category of sugars that can be difficult to digest.
To avoid an upset stomach, consume Parmesan cheese in moderation. Additionally, look for vegetarian options that do not contain animal rennet, as this ingredient may be harder for some people to digest.
