Lactose intolerance is a common condition affecting about 65 percent of the human population according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Lactose intolerance results from a deficiency in lactase, an enzyme that helps break down lactose in the human body. Lactose is a sugar present in dairy products such as milk, yogurt, ice cream and cheese.
Background
People with lactose intolerance can typically consume small amounts of lactose at one time. However the amount of lactose comfortably tolerated may be different from one person to the next. Foods high in lactose are more difficult to tolerate and typically result in more severe symptoms, such as gas, bloating, abdominal pain and diarrhea. Cow's milk typically contains one of the highest amounts of lactose per serving.
Aged Cheese Basics
Cheeses are aged, or stored for a period of time allowing certain nutrients to be broken down, to help enhance the flavor and texture of the cheese. Most cheeses in supermarkets are aged -- the period of time they are aged varies. Examples of aged cheeses include cheddar, Swiss, mozzarella and Colby.
Lactose in Foods
The amount of lactose present in foods varies. While cow's milk is typically hardest to tolerate, small amounts at a time may be OK for many people with lactose intolerance. According to the National Institutes of Health, hard or aged cheeses contain lower amounts of lactose than milk and typically are easier for lactose intolerant individuals to tolerate.
Concerns
When a cheese ages, a chemical called tyramine is produced from the breakdown of amino acids found in the cheese. Tyramine has been associated with causing headaches according to the National Headache Association. A low-tyramine headache diet omits aged cheeses altogether. Tyramine present in aged cheeses can also negatively interact with antidepressant medications, such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors, according to the National Institute of Mental Health.
Considerations
For people with lactose intolerance who have a hard time tolerating any lactose-containing foods including cheeses, lactase enzyme supplements are available. Over-the-counter lactase supplements such as Lactaid, are available in liquid or pill form and can be taken prior to consuming lactose to help prevent the unpleasant side effects from lactose intolerance. Lactose-free and lactase-treated milks and other dairy products are also available for lactose intolerant individuals.
