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Cheese (Pecorino Romano)

Pecorino Romano sensitivity may stem from sheep’s milk casein, lactose, or histamines. Avoid it for 8 weeks, try alternatives like Parmesan or vegan options, and support gut health with probiotics, lactase, and turmeric.

🧀 What is Cheese (Pecorino Romano)?

Pecorino Romano is a hard, salty Italian cheese made from sheep’s milk. It’s often used grated over dishes for its robust flavor. It is aged for months, which enhances its sharp taste and firm texture.

🤔 Why Do I Have an Intolerance to Pecorino Romano and Its Components?

Your intolerance to Pecorino Romano may stem from:

  • Sheep’s Milk Casein: A protein in sheep’s milk that differs from cow’s milk and may irritate your gut or trigger inflammation.
  • Lactose: Though aged cheeses have lower lactose levels, Pecorino Romano may still contain traces that can cause discomfort if you are highly sensitive.
  • Histamines: As an aged cheese, it is high in histamines, which can cause reactions like headaches, skin irritation, or digestive issues.
  • High Salt Content: Pecorino Romano’s saltiness may exacerbate symptoms for individuals sensitive to sodium.

If you tolerate other dairy or cheeses, it may be due to differences in milk type (cow’s vs. sheep’s) or lower levels of histamines and salt in other varieties.

🛠️ What Can I Do About It?

To manage your sensitivity to Pecorino Romano:

  • Avoid Pecorino Romano for 8 weeks: Eliminate it from your diet entirely during this period.
  • Reintroduce and retest: After 8 weeks, try consuming it again to see if symptoms improve or persist.
  • Choose alternatives: Opt for non-dairy or cow’s milk cheeses to replace Pecorino Romano.
  • Track your symptoms: Maintain a food journal to monitor changes and reactions.

💊 Supplements to Support Intolerance

These supplements can help manage symptoms and reduce inflammation:

  • Lactase enzyme: Helps digest lactose in dairy products.
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  • Probiotics: Support a healthy gut microbiome and aid in digestion.
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  • L-glutamine: Repairs and supports the gut lining, reducing irritation.
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  • Turmeric (curcumin): A natural anti-inflammatory that eases symptoms.
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  • Omega-3 fatty acids: Help reduce overall inflammation.

🌟 Why Might I Have an Intolerance to Pecorino Romano But Not Other Cheeses?

The difference could come down to:

  • Milk Type: Pecorino is made from sheep’s milk, while others may come from cow or goat milk, each with different protein structures.

  • Aging Process: Pecorino is aged and higher in histamines—fresh cheeses may cause fewer issues.

  • Lactose Levels: While Pecorino is low in lactose, even trace amounts can be problematic if you’re highly sensitive.

  • Fat and Protein Ratios: Sheep’s milk has more fat and protein per gram than cow’s milk, which can be harder to digest for some.

🍴 Popular Dishes Involving Pecorino Romano

  • Carbonara
  • Cacio e pepe
  • Grated over pasta
  • Caesar salad

🥥 Alternatives to Pecorino Romano

  • Parmesan (cow’s milk-based)
  • Grana Padano
  • Nutritional yeast
  • Vegan parmesan alternatives
  • Aged Gouda