A Look at Dairy

“Milk, it does a body good.” Those of us “of a certain age” remember well this catch phrase from the 1980s campaiagn of the National Dairy Board. Great marketing, but is it truth in advertising? IS milk, or any dairy, good for you?

Let’s look at some facts:

• Humans are the only species on earth to continue to consume milk after we are weaned (unless, of course, you’re feeding it to your fur-babies). Most people stop producing significant amounts of lactase, which helps break down the sugar found naturally in milk, by they time they are five years old. That’s why over 75% of the world’s population is lactose intolerant. They can’t properly digest dairy products. If you notice a gut ache, bloating or gas after you eat dairy, that probably includes you.
• Human milk is especially suited for human infant consumption. Compared to cows milk, it is higher in carbohydrates and lower in protein. It doesn't put a strain on developing kidneys, like cows milk does. Cow dairy is designed for baby cows, not humans.
• Milk is not the only source of calcium. In fact, studies show that countries that eat the lowest rates of dairy have the lowest rates of osteoporosis. Other sources include: Kale and other dark leafy greens, black eyed peas, almonds, butternut squash, sea vegetables (like kelp), sesame tahini and sardines with bones.
• And anyway, calcium isn’t as bone-protective as once thought. Vitamin D appears to be more important to bone health. Get your daily dose of D by enjoying some sunshine on bare skin each day, or if that’s not possible, take a supplement that includes Vitamin D. Weight bearing exercise is equally important for bone health.
• Milk products like whole milk, cheese, yogurt and ice cream, are high in saturated fat (the kind that is linked to heart disease) or other things like salt and sugar that aren’t good for you.
• Cheese is the #1 food people find the most addictive and there’s good reason for that. The protein casein, found in milk products and in concentrated levels in cheese, contain morphine-like compounds. We’re talking opiates here. It’s to make the baby want more. For more information on this, read this article. Or do your own research.

The bottom line is, it seems a little strange to me to be consuming another animals baby formula well past the time when we are weaned, but maybe that’s just me. Our bodies just aren’t designed to consume milk on a regular basis and all the nutrients you think you’re getting from milk, calcium, protein and fat, are best received from other sources.

If you’re not sure how your body reacts to dairy, try giving it up for a couple weeks. That means all dairy – cheese, milk, yogurt, ice cream – and see how you feel. Then start eating it again and see if you notice a difference. If you’re one of the 25% that can tolerate it, good on you! Which ever category you fall into, it’s always a safe bet to reduce your intake of dairy.