Do hard cheeses like parmesan have less lactose than soft cheeses like cheddar?

Question

My boyfriend is lactose intolerant, but for some reason can have parmesan cheese and is fine. Just trying to figure out why!

Answer 1

I am also lactose intolerant. There are all sorts of things that affect, and don't affect me. I can actually eat certain kinds of ice cream but then others KILL ME! I am sure it is just the way his body reacts with that certain product. Everyone's body can tolerate different types of lactose differently. That one probably just doesn't affect his.

Answer 2

Treatment:

Removing milk products from the diet usually improves the symptoms. Other sources of calcium should be added to the diet if milk products are removed.

Fermented milk products such as yogurt can usually be tolerated. Buttermilk and cheeses have less lactose than milk. Goat's milk can sometimes be tolerated but should be consumed with meals, not alone.

Choosing lactose-free milk and milk products may be helpful. Lactase enzymes can be added to regular milk or may be taken in capsule or chewable tablet form.

Read food labels. Lactose is also found in some non-milk products -- including some beers.

Symptoms often follow eating or drinking milk products, and are often relieved by withdrawal of milk products. Large doses of milk products may cause worse symptoms.

hope this helps.

Answer 3

The amount of lactose diminishes as cheese ages, and Parmesan is a type of cheese that is aged more than most. So, the fresher the cheese, the more harm it could do your boyfriend.

Answer 4

I believe thats correct, which would explain the different textures...never thought about it!