People eating gluten-free know better than to jump on just any meal, and this includes any variety of cheese. If you have heard of the rich protein content of Parmesan cheese, you must be wondering if it’s good for your gluten-free diet.
Cheese is a lot more than a pizza topping for many people. If you love to add cheese to your soups and salads, you certainly want to get the best for your meals.
Whether you’re eating gluten-free as a lifestyle or because you have gluten sensitivity, the gluten status of Parmesan cheese is worth knowing.
Keep scrolling to see all the information you want to know about the gluten status of Parmesan cheese.
What is Parmesan cheese?
Parmesan cheese or Parmigiano Reggiano is a hard Italian cow’s milk cheese.
This granular cheese is at least 12 months aged with a golden rind and straw-colored interior. The interior has a sharp, nutty flavor and quite complex taste, which is best described as sweet, bitter, and salty.
Furthermore, Parmesan is healthy if you consume it in moderation. Per 100 grams, it contains 431 calories, 35.7g protein, 29g fat, 4.1g carbs, 88mg cholesterol, 125mg potassium, 1529mg sodium, and vitamins and minerals in trace amounts.
Parmesan cheese is sold in grocery stores in blocks, shredded, or grated forms. Its distinctive salty taste makes it a good choice for salads, soups, pasta, pizza toppings, sauces, and desserts.
It is also good for pairing with fresh or dehydrated fruits (depending on the age of the cheese).
Is Parmesan cheese gluten-free?
Yes, it is. Parmesan cheese is 100% gluten-free. It does not contain any gluten ingredients.
Is Kraft Parmesan cheese gluten-free?
Kraft Parmesan cheese is gluten-free.
Although Kraft does not declare the cheese gluten-free, it does not contain any gluten ingredients.
Is Parmesan cheese vegan?
Not all Parmesan cheese is vegan.
If you’re eating vegan, you can get any of the vegan Parmesan cheese versions that do not contain animal rennet.
Is Parmesan cheese dairy-free?
No, it is not. But if you want a dairy-free Parmesan cheese, go for a vegan version.
Why do you need Parmesan cheese in your diet?
Parmesan cheese is:
Rich in protein
Parmesan cheese contains the most protein among all cheese varieties. The amount of protein in the cheese can help prevent protein deficiency.
Moreover, the protein is easily digestible, especially when the cheese is allowed to age well.
In addition, on the positive side, the protein content in Parmesan cheese can help you lose weight by keeping you feeling full for longer. However, you can’t always eat so much of it because of its high-calorie content.
Good for people with lactose intolerance
Parmesan cheese is good for people with lactose intolerance because it contains a negligible amount of lactose. This makes it different from many other kinds of cheese.
Therefore, people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can safely eat this cheese without fear of any reaction.
Good for the bones
Parmesan cheese is rich in calcium and vitamin D, which are good for bone health. These nutrients help to increase bone mass and structure support.
Moreover, as your body digests casein, the protein releases mineral residues that enhance the rate of absorption of calcium and other minerals like zinc and iron.
Easier to digest
When compared to other cheeses, Parmesan is easier to digest. As it ages, the lactic acid enzymes present break down casein into smaller proteins.
By the time you’re ready to eat the cheese, your body won’t find it difficult to digest the protein.
Good for the heart
Parmesan cheese contains a good amount of calcium, which is about 30% of the recommended daily intake for adults.
This calcium can promote heart health and reduce blood pressure. In addition, it is rich in omega-3 fats, which are also good for heart health.
Good for muscle building
Parmesan cheese is rich in protein, which is an essential nutrient for muscle repair and building.
Adding this cheese to your meals daily can help rebuild worn-out tissues and muscles from intense workout sessions.
Rich in vitamin A
Parmesan cheese contains omega-3 fats and vitamin A, which are essential for strong eyes and good vision. Eat Parmesan cheese in healthy amounts to improve your eyesight.
Are there side effects of eating Parmesan cheese?
Consuming too much Parmesan cheese could result in excessive weight gain because of its high calories. And this weight gain could lead to heart problems.
Also, if you have a dairy allergy, you may experience some reactions after eating Parmesan cheese.
The symptoms of dairy allergy include vomiting, itching, swelling of the mouth, shortness of breath, hives, and wheezing. In severe cases, there could be a loss of consciousness.
FAQs
Is Reggiano Parmesan cheese gluten-free?
Yes, it is. Reggiano grated Parmesan cheese is made from pasteurized part skim milk, salt, cheese culture, and enzymes. It does not contain any gluten ingredients.
Is Frigo Parmesan cheese gluten-free?
Frigo shredded Parmesan cheese is gluten-free.
Is Parmesan cheese lactose-free?
Parmesan cheese is not completely lactose-free, but it is safe for people with lactose intolerance.
The amount of lactose in Parmesan cheese is negligible and won’t trigger a reaction.
Is Parmesan cheese allowed on a low FODMAP diet?
Yes, it is. Parmesan cheese is fit for a low FODMAP diet.
Therefore, Parmesan cheese won’t be a problem for your digestive system if you have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Conclusion
Parmesan cheese is gluten-free. Moreover, it is healthy and a good choice of cheese if you are lactose intolerant. The protein content of this cheese sets it apart from other cheeses and highly contributes to its nutritional value.
So, while you’re staying off gluten with Parmesan cheese, you can also enjoy lots of health benefits. Most importantly, ensure you’re buying the freshest parmesan cheese. Bad parmesan cheese will ruin your meal.
Thanks for reading.
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