Milk: benefit or myth? Why the body can do without it

Milk: benefit or myth? Why the body can do without it

For decades, milk has been considered an indispensable component of a healthy diet. It was recommended for children, adults and the elderly as a source of calcium, proteins and vitamins. However, modern research and observations of doctors and nutritionists increasingly question the need for milk in the diet of an adult.

First of all, a significant part of the world's population (over 65%) suffers from lactose intolerance. This means that their body is unable to effectively digest lactose - milk sugar. Such people experience bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea or other gastrointestinal disorders after drinking milk. This reaction of the body is natural, since the lactase enzyme, which breaks down lactose, disappears in many people with age.

In addition to lactose intolerance, there is a question about the real need for milk as a source of calcium. Although milk does contain calcium, it is also absorbed more effectively from dark green vegetables (broccoli, kale), legumes, sesame seeds, and calcium-fortified foods, such as plant-based milk. In addition, the high content of animal protein in milk can contribute to the loss of calcium through urine, which negates the positive effect.

Studies also indicate the possible risks of excessive consumption of dairy products. Some scientists associate regular consumption of large amounts of milk with an increased risk of acne, hormonal disruptions, and some types of cancer, including prostate cancer in men. In addition, the high content of saturated fat in dairy products can contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease.

Another argument against consuming milk is the fact that it is a product designed by nature for feeding calves, not humans. No other mammal consumes milk after breastfeeding is complete, much less the milk of another species. This fact makes us wonder about the naturalness of such a habit.

There are many alternatives today: soy, almond, oat, coconut milk - all of them are plant-based options that do not contain lactose, are often enriched with calcium and vitamin D, and do not cause side effects. Thus, giving up milk is not only not harmful, but can even improve your health if you approach it thoughtfully.