DAIRY – YOU MIGHT WANT TO THINK AGAIN…

The dairy controversy…some say it’s healthy, if it’s low fat, pasteurized and eaten in moderation.  Others believe that full fat, raw dairy is one of the healthiest foods you can eat.  Then there are those, of course, who say dairy is bad all together.  How do you know what to believe.

Well there are some things to consider.  While I opt to stay away from dairy, as a personal choice, if you are going to include dairy as part of your diet, you should be informed.  I strongly recommend buying organic diary if you’re going to consume it.  Non-organic milk can contain harmful contaminants such as antibiotics, growth hormones and pesticides.  Also, the cow’s feed may be genetically modified.  Worth risking? I think not.  While organic milk is free of synthetic hormones, antibiotics and pesticides, even organic dairy contains naturally occurring growth hormones.  Another reason to consume dairy, even organic dairy, in moderation, if at all.

What’s the deal between pasteurized as opposed to raw dairy?  Well here in the US, legally, all milk must be pasteurized as a means to protect consumers from exposure to potential pathogens that can make them sick.  Advocates of raw milk, (which is permitted in other countries throughout Europe) argue that pasteurization not only changes the structure of the milk proteins, but also destroys the beneficial vitamins and minerals found in milk.

Calcium anyone?  It is of popular belief that milk provides us with a great source of calcium, but studies clearly show that countries with the highest consumption of milk also have the highest rates of osteoporosis.  Likewise, countries with the lowest milk consumption have the lowest rates of osteoporosis.  Hmm…makes you wonder, huh?

Studies have also linked milk and dairy consumption to the facilitation of cancer growth as well as the reduction of animal proteins in general to the reverse of diseases such as heart disease and diabetes.  Others might argue that not all dairy is created equal and that dairy derived from an animal who was grass-fed and lived a peaceful, happy life can be quite beneficial.

I know you might be thinking, but I love my cheese…and I love my ice cream!  Well, you don’t have to give it up.  Just try to eat dairy in moderation, or take a look at some of the dairy alternatives in your grocery store.  There are some great options now!  From rice milk based products to coconut and almond milk products, you can be sure to find something you will like!