Is milk your go-to source of calcium? I’m not surprised. Milk is commonly thought to be the cornerstone of a healthy diet, providing essential vitamins and minerals, strengthening our bones and preventing osteoporosis. In fact, we’re taught from a very young age that milk does the body good and … the more the better! But – is this true? Is milk really good for you?
The truth is that milk is not all it’s cracked up to be. Here’s why:
- Milk causes inflammation in the body, which can lead to digestive issues, allergies, acne, and eczema.
- Milk, like most animal proteins, is acid forming. Because your body likes to maintain a neutral pH balance, it has to compensate for this increased acidity by drawing on its alkaline reserves – the calcium, magnesium and potassium stored in your bones. This weakens your bones putting them at increased risk for fractures.
- Many dairy cows have been injected with antibiotics, which can contribute to antibiotic resistance.
Need more convincing? A new study published in the British Medical Journal suggests that higher milk consumption can lead to weaker bones and higher risk of death. This Swedish study used data from two large long-term studies of adult men and women. The results of the study indicated that women who consumed more than 3 glasses of milk a day had a 50% higher risk of fracture and twice the risk of death than women who drank less than one glass of milk a day. Men also had a higher risk of death with higher milk consumption. The research also suggested that milk increased inflammation and oxidative stress in the body. More research needs to be done but for now it may be best to watch your milk consumption. More isn’t always better!
Don’t worry! There are lots of other ways to get your daily dose of calcium. Here are some great sources of easily absorbed calcium:
- Greens – Mustard, Kale, Collard, Parsley, Bok Choy
- Wild Salmon
- Sardines
- Shellfish
- Almonds
- Brazil Nuts
- Dried Beans
- Chia Seeds
Which calcium rich foods can you start including in your diet? Please share in the comments section below – I’d love to hear from you. As always, feel free to share this blog with your friends, family and anyone else who could benefit.
References:
http://www.bmj.com/content/349/bmj.g6015