Health
3 benefits of parmesan cheese and side effects
Discover the 3 shocking benefits of Parmesan cheese.
Parmesan cheese is ideal to accompany a wide variety of recipes. Do you want to know more about its properties? Continue reading!
It is one of the products with a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO). This indicates that, according to the European Union regulation, only cheese produced under the specifications established by the production regulation can be considered Parmesan cheese.
In turn, this encompasses issues such as stable pastures and livestock used to extract milk. Do you want to know more about its properties?
Characteristics of Parmesan cheese
Parmesan has a characteristic strong flavor that some resemble that of walnut. It can be sweet, salty, and bitter at the same time. Its texture is grainy and the color varies from light yellow to dark yellow.
The recommended maturation is 12 months at rest. It is the last step in cheese making.
To do this, aspects such as temperature, humidity, and ventilation of the room are taken care of. Factors such as texture, flavor, and aromas depend on this phase.
The production of Parmesan cheese takes at least 12 months due to the maturation process it must undergo.
How is this cheese made?
It all starts with the coagulation of rennet, a group of enzymes used for solidification.
In this way, in the beginning, the cow’s milk begins to coagulate and the liquid serum begins to separate.
The latter is a fraction of milk that is made up of salt, water, fat, protein, lactose, and minerals.
When the curd forms, it must be cut into small pieces to expel more whey and reduce the moisture content.
Then, together with the whey, it is cooked at 55 degrees Celsius to further concentrate the curd and expel more whey.
When cooked, the cheese mass is obtained. The whey is drained from this and the residue is what will become cheese.
This is followed by knitting, the purpose of which is for the curd to continue to melt.
Once this is done, it goes through pressing, where external pressure is applied. At this point, a mold is used to form the wheels of the Parmesan.
Salting is the step before ripening. Allow the moisture in the preparation to reduce.
The wheels are submerged in saltwater or brine to absorb the salt. Then ripening begins.
Nutritional contributions of Parmesan cheese
100 grams of Parmesan cheese provide 1640 calories. The average amount of calories that should be consumed per day is 2000.
Regarding protein, it provides 35.75 grams. Of this nutrient, a person needs 0.8 grams per kilo of weight per day.
As for fat, it provides 25 grams of the 80 that are needed daily. In addition, it contains 68 milligrams of cholesterol, of the 300 recommended daily.
Benefits of Parmesan cheese
As stated in an article published in Food Technology and Biotechnology, Parmesan cheese has positive nutritional qualities for health.
Although its consumption should be moderate due to its calorie content, it can be consumed without regrets.
1. Does not contain lactose
Lactose is a type of sugar found in milk and dairy products. When ingested, lactase, an enzyme found in the intestine, converts it into sugars that the body needs for energy.
However, some people cannot digest this substance, as they are deficient in the enzyme.
Since much of the whey is removed during the manufacture of Parmesan cheese, it contains almost no lactose.
Therefore, it is often considered suitable for those people who are lactose intolerant.
2. Contributes to bone health
Parmesan contains 1159 milligrams of calcium per 100 grams of product, which helps support bone health.
Only 50 grams of this cheese covers 75% of the calcium requirement for adults; 60% of the recommended amount for children and 45% of what is recommended for women over 50 years of age.
99% of calcium is stored in the bones. When there is a deficiency of this mineral, conditions such as osteoporosis can appear.
3. Has high-quality protein
This cheese contains amino acids such as isoleucine, leucine, lysine, threonine, tryptophan, valine, methionine, phenylalanine, tyrosine, and histidine, which are essential for the production of high-quality proteins. Plus, the protein in Parmesan is easy to digest.
Risks of ingesting Parmesan cheese
This cheese is high in sodium. High salt intake is associated with the development of problems such as high blood pressure or kidney failure. It contains 704 milligrams of sodium.
The World Health Organization states that you only have to eat 2 grams of sodium daily. In addition, in hypertensive patients, only one gram should be ingested.
Parmesan can be included in a wide variety of recipes. However, its consumption is not recommended in hypertensive or patients with kidney disease due to its sodium content.
Uses of Parmesan cheese
In the kitchen it is usually used for all kinds of sauces; also to flavor soups such as minestrone, fresh fruits, raisins, and nuts. It is also an aperitif accompanied by olive oil.
Recipe
Butter
White onion
Milk
Chicken breast without skin in cubes
Pasta
Cream cheese
Mushrooms
Parmesan
Salt and pepper
Instructions
In a large pot, melt the butter and sauté the onion until translucent.
Add the chicken cubes and put them to brown.
Then, add the milk and cream cheese, let it dissolve, and add the previously cooked pasta and Parmesan.
Cook for 12 minutes and add the chopped mushrooms.
What is there to remember?
Due to its content of essential nutrients, Parmesan cheese can be included in the framework of a healthy and balanced diet.
Still, it is essential to consume it in small quantities, in moderation.
Patients with heart or kidney disease should avoid it due to its sodium content. In these cases, it is better to consult your doctor first.
Table of Contents
Discover the benefits of coconut water in pregnancy.
Coconut water is a clear, sweet, energizing isotonic drink that helps your body replenish lost fluids. Also known as Nariyal Pani and Elaneer in India, it is known for its versatility and countless nutritional benefits.
IS IT SAFE TO CONSUME COCONUT WATER DURING PREGNANCY?
Yes, it is safe to drink coconut water, but in moderation, as it contains natural vitamins and minerals.
Having coconut water in the first trimester helps curb dehydration resulting from morning sickness. It’s also good for heartburn and constipation, common symptoms of pregnancy.
You can drink coconut water at any time, but the best time is early in the morning. It is healthier, as the electrolytes and nutrients can be easily absorbed when the stomach is empty.
The nutritional benefits present in a cup of coconut water include:
•Calories 46
•Sodium 252mg
•600mg potassium
•Carbs 8.9 grams
•Dietary fiber 2.6 grams
•Sugars 6.26 grams
•Calcium 6%
Benefits of coconut water in pregnancy
You can reap its benefits only when you consume fresh water, as it begins to ferment when left open and exposed to air.
1. NATURAL DIURETIC:
During pregnancy, uric acid levels should be normal in your body system. Coconut water is a diuretic and increases the need to urinate due to the presence of potassium, magnesium, and minerals.
They help eliminate toxins and cleanse the urinary tract. Thus, it improves kidney function and prevents kidney stones and infections. It also prevents urinary tract infections, which reduces the chances of preterm labor.
2. OFFERS ESSENTIAL ELECTROLYTES:
The need for electrolytes increases during pregnancy because conditions like morning sickness, nausea, and diarrhea dehydrate the body. Coconut water supplies all five essential electrolytes: minerals, sodium, calcium, potassium, and phosphorus, which calm the body and provide energy.
These electrolytes transmit electrical charges in your body and aid in muscle function. They also help maintain your body’s pH levels and control blood pressure levels. It is known to have cooling properties, which prevent conditions such as bilious fever and vomiting.
3. RELIEVES HEARTBURN AND CONSTIPATION:
Hormonal changes during pregnancy lead to various problems like heartburn, constipation, and indigestion. The rich content of dietary fiber in coconut water strengthens the digestive system, improves digestion, regulates pH levels, and prevents constipation.
Ayurveda considers young coconut water to be an excellent laxative. Improves metabolism and detoxifies the body. Coconut water is a natural acid neutralizer and thus prevents heartburn.
4. TREAT INFECTIONS:
Coconut water is rich in vitamins, essential minerals, and antioxidants, which boost your immune levels, providing resistance to infections. It contains lauric acid, a medium-chain fatty acid responsible for the production of a powerful antiviral monolaurin, Michelle-Lee Young writes in the book “Two Trees and Twelve Fruits That Will Change Your Life Forever.” Lauric is a disease-fighting acid that kills harmful bacteria and infections like the flu, and HIV, and retains good bacteria.
5. IMPROVES HEART HEALTH:
Low electrolyte level increases blood pressure. Drinking coconut water improves levels of potassium, magnesium, and lauric acid, which help regulate blood pressure. Improves good cholesterol and fights bad cholesterol.
The vitamins, essential proteins, and electrolytes in coconut water control sugar levels, and blood pressure levels, and improve circulation. A glass of coconut water every day is particularly helpful in the last trimester when there is increasing stress from labor that can increase your blood pressure.
6. MAINTAINS A HEALTHY WEIGHT:
Coconut water is fat-free and low in calories. As pregnancy adds extra weight to your body, coconut water prevents fat accumulation by removing bad cholesterol. It is an excellent replacement for sugary drinks and helps both the mother and the growing fetus to be healthy and fit.
7. NATURAL DRINK:
Coconut water is a tasty natural drink. It has no artificial flavors or harmful components. It is safe for you and your growing fetus as none of its components affect your health.
8. ENERGIZE AFTER TRAINING:
Coconut water is a natural isotonic drink, which helps you gain energy when suffering from dehydration, fatigue, and exhaustion. It is a great revitalizer
. If you exercise regularly to stay fit and strengthen your pelvic muscles, you can opt for coconut water as an energy drink. Hydration also improves skin elasticity, limiting the stretch marks that develop during pregnancy.
9. LOW SUGAR CONTENT:
Excessive sugar intake can lead to an increase in overall blood sugar levels. Coconut water has less sugar than other sports and energy drinks. You won’t gain pregnancy weight, and a diet low in simple sugars will reduce your risk of getting gestational diabetes.
10. ACCELERATES THE GROWTH OF THE FETUS:
Coconut water offers all the nutrients to the mother, essential to maintain and improve her health. Thus, it improves the health, growth, and proper nutrition of the unborn baby.
11. IMPROVES AMNIOTIC FLUID LEVELS:
Drinking coconut water improves the overall health and environment of your growing fetus. Coconut water taken especially in the third trimester increases amniotic fluid levels and improves blood volume and circulation.
ARE THERE ANY SIDE EFFECTS OF COCONUT WATER DURING PREGNANCY?
There is no evidence that coconut water has adverse effects on pregnancy. Like any other fruit or vegetable juice, it also appears to be safe. But there are two things to keep in mind:
•Coconut milk contains sodium, which may not be the right choice for pregnant women with preeclampsia.
•Ripe coconut water can cause constipation.
HOW MUCH COCONUT WATER CAN A PREGNANT WOMAN HAVE?
Moderation is always the key when it comes to eating a healthy diet. You can drink up to a glass of coconut water a day.
Consume the water soon after opening, as a fresh one will contain rich nutrients. Use a clean straw or pour it into a glass and drink.
It is always good to prefer natural coconut water to canned or bottled.
Do not consume coconut water if you react or do not like its taste.
HOW TO SELECT THE CORRECT COCONUT?
To enjoy the various benefits of coconut water, you need to know how to select them properly. These tips can help you buy fresh and tender coconut.
A fresh coconut will be light and sweet and will not contain coconut meat, the white, meaty, tender substance. A ripe or stale one will taste sour.
Selection: Choose medium-sized, clean, green walnuts, as they contain large amounts of water. Don’t choose coconuts that have hard brown shells and gray patches as they indicate ripe nuts.
Water: Shake the coconut vigorously near your ear to check for water. Select the ones that make a good splashing sound. A fresh coconut will contain almost a cup of water.
If you want to store coconuts at home, keep them in a cool place.
BENEFITS OF COCONUT MEAT DURING PREGNANCY:
1. GENERATION OF BREAST MILK:
Regular consumption of coconut meat during pregnancy improves the supply of breast milk after childbirth. Your baby will receive nutritious and rich breast milk. Also, coconut oil helps in the generation of breast milk.
It is also good during the lactation phase as it contains lauric and capric acids. These acids have antiviral, antibacterial, and parasiticidal effects, which protect the baby from diseases.
2. IMPROVES BLOOD CIRCULATION:
Blood volume doubles during pregnancy, causing swelling of the feet and legs. Poor blood circulation aggravates the condition. Coconut consumption improves blood circulation and prevents swelling and pain in the legs.
3. HELPS DIGESTION:
Consuming coconut meat and water prevents constipation as tender coconut meat acts as an excellent laxative. It is one of the best benefits of consuming a coconut in any form during pregnancy.
4. BETTER SLEEP:
Having coconut in combination with poppy seeds and ghee will improve your sleep cycle.
5. INCREASES METABOLISM:
When the coconut is mixed with spices, it helps boost metabolic activities in pregnant women.
COCONUT MILK DURING PREGNANCY:
Coconut milk is a thick, milky liquid obtained by grinding grated coconut meat. It is also an essential ingredient in many foods, especially Southeast Asian dishes.
Coconut can be consumed in any form due to its amazing health benefits. Coconut milk helps increase body fuel. It is completely safe to drink unless you are allergic to it.
BENEFITS OF COCONUT MILK DURING PREGNANCY:
1. ENHANCE IMMUNITY:
Coconut milk contains lauric acid, which is an antibacterial and antiviral fat, useful for pregnant women. This type of fat helps improve the immune system, according to the book “Coconut Oil and the Immune System” by Sherri Neal. The long-chain fatty acids straighten the blood vessels and reduce any blockages in the heart, thus improving the condition of the heart as well.
2. OTHER BENEFITS INCLUDE:
•It contains good amounts of iron, which can treat anemia.
•Improves digestive problems.
•It offers relaxation to the muscles and the nervous system.
•Controls blood sugar levels and blood pressure
•Relieves joint pain and scratches
•Makes your body fit and helps you lose weight
HOW TO PREPARE FRESH COCONUT MILK?
It is advisable to make coconut milk at home instead of opting for a packaged one.
Grate a whole coconut and add a cup and a half of hot water.
Let the mixture cool to room temperature.
Once the mixture cools down, strain to get the milk.
Coconut milk taken directly from fresh coconuts will contain approximately 450 calories and 50 g of fat. A cup of coconut milk (approximately 240 g) has the following nutritional values:
•Calories 550
•Fats 50.2gm (all types of fats)
•Cholesterol 0
•Sodium 40gm
•Carbohydrates 14gm (in 250gm of milk)
•Proteins 6gm
•Vitamin C 11%
•Iron 22%
•Calcium 4%
IS CANNED COCONUT MILK GOOD DURING PREGNANCY?
It’s safe to have canned coconut milk during pregnancy, but you need to make sure the can isn’t corroded, rusted, expired, or stored at dangerous temperatures.
Coconut milk contains considerable amounts of saturated fat, that is, 3 g in a tablespoon. Eating too much-saturated fat will increase the levels of good and bad cholesterol in the body. In the case of canned milk, you must take into account your level of consumption, since you should not exceed your daily requirement.
In addition to the above, other reasons why you may not choose canned coconut milk are:
1. BISPHENOL A (BPA):
It is a chemical that is typically used in the lining of cans used for packaged foods. This BPA can gradually leach into acidic, fatty, or salty foods like coconut milk, vegetables, tomatoes, and soups. One study claims that there is a relationship between high levels of BPA in mothers and neurobehavioral problems in babies.
2. GUAR GUM:
Guar gum is an additive present in canned coconut milk. It is a galactomannan, a polysaccharide, and is primarily a ground endosperm of guar beans.
There have been complaints such as severe abdominal cramps, indigestion, flatulence, and diarrhea, as beans are difficult to digest. In a clinical experiment, patients with intestinal problems showed improvement when they stopped using canned coconut milk in their diet.
3. FRUCTOSE MALABSORPTION:
It is a digestive disease characterized by impaired transport of fructose (a simple sugar found in fruits, vegetables, and honey) through the small intestine. Increased fructose levels in the gut cause bacterial overgrowth.
Therefore, it reduces the absorption of water in the intestine. Pregnant women with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are highly affected by fructose malabsorption.
According to nutrition data, coconut milk contains sugar, including fructose. Therefore, it should be avoided by those affected by IBD and IBS disorders.
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