Is it Lactose Intolerance? The Surprising Answer
Contrary to popular belief, the reason brie upsets your stomach is unlikely to be lactose intolerance. The science behind cheesemaking explains why. During the aging process, bacteria and cultures consume most of the lactose, the milk sugar that causes digestive issues in intolerant individuals. This is particularly true for aged cheeses like brie. In fact, many people who are lactose intolerant can tolerate soft, aged cheeses well, often without taking lactase supplements. So, if you react specifically to brie but not to other dairy products, a different mechanism is probably at work.
The Aging Process and Lactose Content
The fermentation process that creates brie's distinctive flavor also breaks down the lactose. When curds are separated from the whey, most of the lactose is drained away with the liquid. The small amount of lactose that remains is converted into lactic acid as the cheese ripens, resulting in very low levels of the sugar in the final product.
Unraveling the True Culprits: Histamine, Amines, and Mold
If lactose is not the issue, a few other components of brie could be causing your symptoms. The intricate process of aging, along with the unique mold that defines the cheese, can be problematic for certain digestive systems.
Histamine and Biogenic Amine Sensitivity
Brie is moderately low in histamine, but it can contain high levels of other biogenic amines, such as tyramine, cadaverine, and putrescine. For individuals with histamine or other amine sensitivities, consuming brie can lead to an array of symptoms, including bloating, gas, abdominal pain, and headaches. This is because the body may lack sufficient diamine oxidase (DAO), the enzyme needed to break down these compounds.
The Edible Mold on the Rind
The white, bloomy rind on a wheel of brie is created by the mold Penicillium candidum. While safe and delicious for most people, some individuals may have a sensitivity to this specific mold. For these people, the mold can trigger an immune response or general digestive upset, causing symptoms that are often mistaken for a dairy intolerance.
A True Milk Protein Allergy
While rare, a cow's milk protein allergy could be the cause of your discomfort. Unlike a lactose intolerance, which is a digestive issue, an allergy is an immune system response to the proteins found in milk. Symptoms can range from mild (hives, itching) to severe (anaphylaxis) and can include gastrointestinal distress like abdominal pain and diarrhea. If you suspect a dairy allergy, it is crucial to consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis.
Comparison of Potential Causes
| Factor | Lactose Intolerance | Histamine Intolerance | Dairy Protein Allergy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Insufficient lactase enzyme for lactose digestion | Insufficient DAO enzyme for histamine/amine metabolism | Immune system overreaction to milk protein |
| Symptom Onset | Typically hours after consumption | Can vary, from soon after to hours later | Can be immediate or delayed up to 48 hours |
| Symptoms | Bloating, gas, diarrhea, stomach cramps | Bloating, gas, headaches, rashes, anxiety | Hives, swelling, wheezing, digestive issues |
| Brie's Role | Brie is low in lactose, making it an unlikely cause. | The aging process can increase histamine and other amines. | Brie contains milk proteins that can trigger an immune response. |
| Severity | Unpleasant but rarely life-threatening | Variable, but typically not life-threatening | Can be severe and potentially life-threatening |
How to Enjoy Brie without Discomfort
If you have identified brie as a trigger for your digestive issues, there are several strategies you can employ to minimize or eliminate the problem. The solution depends on identifying the root cause of your sensitivity.
1. Reduce Portion Sizes
If your sensitivity is related to histamines or other amines, a smaller serving might be easier for your body to process. As with any rich food, moderation is key.
2. Consider Alternatives
If you suspect a specific sensitivity to brie's unique characteristics, trying a different cheese might solve the problem. For instance, goat cheese is another soft, tangy option that is naturally lower in lactose and may contain different microbial cultures.
3. Remove the Rind
For those sensitive to the mold on brie, simply trimming the white rind may solve the problem entirely. While the rind is edible and part of the traditional experience, it is not essential to the cheese's flavor profile. You can still enjoy the creamy interior.
4. Seek a Medical Diagnosis
If your symptoms are severe or consistent with a dairy allergy, a medical professional can provide a proper diagnosis through testing. It's the safest way to confirm an allergy and prevent more serious reactions.
5. Manage Symptoms with Care
For general stomach upset, home remedies like the BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast) or peppermint tea can help calm the digestive tract. Over-the-counter medications for gas or diarrhea may also provide relief.
Conclusion
While many assume lactose intolerance is the reason for stomach upset from cheese, the low lactose content of brie suggests other factors are often at play. Histamine and other amine sensitivities, coupled with potential reactions to the edible mold on the rind, are more likely culprits. By understanding these potential causes and exploring simple strategies like portion control or rind removal, you can get back to enjoying this celebrated cheese. For persistent or severe symptoms, consulting a healthcare professional is always the best course of action to ensure your digestive comfort and safety. For more information on food intolerance, see the Better Health Channel's page on the topic.
