Why Does Cheese Make You SIck?

It's not cheese itself that makes you sick, but rather some things that can be found in cheese, or reactions that some people have to cheese. Here's a breakdown:

1. Lactose Intolerance:

* What it is: Lactose intolerance means your body doesn't produce enough lactase, the enzyme needed to break down lactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products like cheese.

* Symptoms: Bloating, gas, diarrhea, stomach cramps.

* Solution: Choose cheese made with low-lactose milk, aged cheeses (lactose content decreases with aging), or lactose-free cheese alternatives.

2. Bacteria and Mold:

* What it is: Some cheeses contain bacteria or mold that can be beneficial for flavor and texture, but for some people, these microorganisms can cause digestive issues.

* Symptoms: Stomach cramps, diarrhea, vomiting.

* Solution: If you have a sensitivity, avoid strongly flavored, unpasteurized, or blue cheeses.

3. Food Allergies:

* What it is: Milk protein allergy is a reaction to the proteins in milk, which are also present in cheese.

* Symptoms: Hives, itching, swelling, breathing difficulties, and even anaphylaxis (a severe allergic reaction).

* Solution: Avoid all dairy products, including cheese.

4. Histamine:

* What it is: Histamine is a natural compound found in some foods, including cheese. Aged cheeses tend to have higher histamine levels.

* Symptoms: Headache, flushing, nausea, stomach cramps, and diarrhea.

* Solution: Choose fresh cheeses, or avoid cheese altogether if you experience these symptoms.

5. Tyramine:

* What it is: Tyramine is an amino acid found in aged cheeses, which can cause problems for people taking certain medications, such as MAOIs (monoamine oxidase inhibitors) used to treat depression.

* Symptoms: Headache, increased blood pressure, sweating, and even stroke.

* Solution: If you're taking MAOIs, avoid aged cheeses and other tyramine-rich foods.

6. Other Factors:

* Individual Sensitivity: Some people may be sensitive to specific ingredients or processing methods used in cheese production.

* Contamination: While rare, cheese can sometimes become contaminated with bacteria like E. coli or Salmonella, which can cause food poisoning.

In short, cheese doesn't inherently make you sick, but it can be a trigger for certain sensitivities or allergies. If you experience symptoms after eating cheese, it's best to talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian to identify the cause and find solutions.