Last Updated on November 5, 2022 by Aaron
Parmesan is a cheese that many people love to use in their recipes. People are wondering if Parmesan cheese is low-FODMAP and can I eat it with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)? And what kind of cheese can be eaten when you have IBS?
Parmigiano Reggiano (aka Parmesan) is low-FODMAP and can be eaten by those who have IBS. For example, the parmesan by Murray’s brand contains only 4.71g of carbohydrates per 100g (USDA).
Moreover, parmesan cheese has a very strong flavor, so you don’t need to use much in your recipes. Parmesan cheese is also high in calcium which is important for people with IBS. Calcium may help to ease the chronic diarrhea from IBS (1).
The prebiotics in parmesan enhances the bacterial activity, such as the lactic acid bacteria, and are believed to subsequently improve the digestion and mineral absorption in the gut. That also helps to restore the microbial imbalance in IBS (2).
Lastly, parmesan contains a very small amount of lactose – less than 1g per serving – almost negligible. Therefore, it’s ideal for people who’re doing a low FODMAP diet.
Cheeses You Can Fully Enjoy with low FODMAP
Below is some other cheeses which people with IBS can enjoy. The list is based on low carbs and low lactose, and crossed with the FODMAP database from the paid Monash App.
- Cheddar cheese
- Swiss cheese
- Parmigiano Reggiano
- Manchego
- Monterey Jack
- Pecorino
- Gorgonzola (read detail)
Be wary of the ingredients used in different brands might be slightly different.
