More and more people are trying to avoid dairy or choose to go completely dairy-free. Is this just another hype, or should we all go dairy-free to improve our health? To be honest, there isn’t a simple answer.
We’ve all been brought up with the idea that milk is super nutritious and very much needed to build and maintain strong bones. But why is it that we, humans, are the only species that keeps drinking milk after infancy?
Actually, dairy products are not as healthy and needed as we all think. The USDA recommends 3 glasses of milk a day… and – no surprise here – they have been advised by so-called experts in the field which actually work for the dairy industry. So the 3 glasses is a recommendation based on the interest of the dairy industry rather than it is based on scientific evidence.
Does this mean we all have to go dairy-free and say no to ice creams, cheese, yogurt, and butter forever?
As long as you’re not lactose-intolerant or sensitive to milk, and in perfect health, consuming a little dairy from time to time won’t harm your health, just choose for organic or grass-fed products.
The biggest issue right now is that we actually consume too much concentrated dairy protein, which can cause major side effects.
Here Are 8 Reasons To Avoid Or Dramatically Reduce Dairy Intake
1. Dairy Is Not For Everybody
A whopping 75% of our population seems to be lactose intolerant or sensitive to milk protein. These people should go 100% dairy-free to avoid health issues.
2. Chronic Inflammation
Dairy is highly acidic and can cause a wide range of health problems when consumed in excessive amounts. Too much acids can cause calcium build ups which cause inflammation. Instead of strengthening your bones, these build ups can potentiality cause osteoporosis or arthritis. It is actually much better to get your calcium out of plants like kale, chard, figs, almonds, etc…
3. Dairy Products Loaded With Fat and Cholesterol
Cheese and ice cream are packed with fats and sugar which can cause cardiovascular diseases, obesity, and diabetes.
4. Full Of Hormones
The dairy industry uses a growth hormone to increase milk production. These hormones end up in the end product and are linked to many diseases such as cancer and thyroid issues. In the European Union and Canada these hormones are banned. Also check out my previous post: 12 American Foods That Are Banned In Other Countries
5. Aging
Dairy is one of the hardest things to digest. Improper digestion reflects on the skin. Fruits, vegetables, seeds, nuts, legumes, and healthy fats are the go-to products to extend life and promote a beautiful, radiant skin that ages more slowly.
6. Digestive Health
Many people who suffer from digestive issues such as bloating, diarrhea, leaky gut syndrome, IBS, or Crohn’s disease find relief after ditching dairy.
7. Cancer Risk
Communing too much dairy protein – especially the non-organic, hormone-laden kind – has been linked to increase the risk of breast, prostate, testicular, and colon cancer.
8. Bone Health
Although we all think calcium is the most important mineral to protect our bones and prevent fractures, vitamin D actually seems to be more important. Some studies even note that countries where less dairy is consumed, seem to have less bone fractures or bone degeneration.
Take Home Message
Milk or dairy products are such a controversial topic, and there is no correct answer whether you should go dairy-free or not to improve your health.
Although milk contains many healthy nutrients- such as calcium, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, vitamin D, B2, and B12- these days we are just consuming too much of it. So if you’re not a vegan, lactose intolerant or sensitive, or don’t seem to have any underlying health issues, consuming a little dairy won’t kill you or harm your health.
The only thing you need to do is watch your intake carefully and only opt for organic, grass-fed products!
If you want to reset your body, lose weight and learn how to eat a well-balanced, healthy diet, click here.