6 MYTHS ABOUT DAIRY DEBUNKED
Milk has been a food staple for ages and remains an excellent source of nourishment. We've believed several food-related rumours since we were children. There are numerous factors influencing public perceptions of milk's health advantages. While some argue that drinking milk at night can harm the digestive system, others believe it can induce acne.
But have you ever questioned if all of these milk-related claims are factual or myths? Read on to learn more about these prevalent beliefs and the facts behind them. It's time to dispel these myths and clarify five entirely false milk-related claims:
- Myth: Drinking milk promotes weight gain
This misconception about milk is likewise false because the minerals found in milk are vital for overall health. Weight gain is largely attributed to the FAT found in milk. It is important to note that FAT in milk is an essential component of a balanced diet, providing crucial nutrients like vitamins A, D, E, and K.
It doesn't directly lead to weight gain. It plays a vital role in body nourishment, supporting cell growth, hormone production, and overall health.
- Myth: Boiling milk excessively lowers its nutrition
Contrary to popular belief, the act of boiling milk does not substantially diminish its nutritional content. While some may worry about repeated boiling reducing its nutritional value, it's important to recognise that this process primarily serves to eliminate harmful bacteria, ensuring milk's safety for consumption. Essential nutrients like calcium, protein, and vitamins A and D remain largely unaffected by boiling.
To maintain optimal nutritional benefits, it's recommended to adhere to scientific practices, such as allowing the milk to cool after boiling. In commercial pasteurisation processes, milk is heated to 75 degrees Celsius and then rapidly cooled to less than 4 degrees Celsius to eradicate bacteria while preserving its nutritional integrity.
- Myth: Milk removes calcium from bones
The idea that milk leaches calcium from bones is not supported by scientific research. In actuality, milk is a good source of calcium, which is essential for bone health. Regular dairy consumption has been linked to stronger bones and a lower incidence of osteoporosis.
- Myth: Drinking milk makes mucus
Some individuals believe that drinking milk causes mucus. Multiple journals and published papers from notable institutes have not found scientific evidence linking milk consumption to increased mucus production. Studies have shown that milk does not stimulate mucus production in the respiratory tract. Therefore, for most people, drinking milk should not exacerbate mucus-related issues.
- Myth: milk causes acne
The misconception that milk causes acne has persisted. While individual reactions may differ, empirical data does not consistently indicate a direct causal link between milk consumption and acne. Genetics, hormones, and diet have a larger impact on skin health. Dairy products contain essential nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, and protein, which are beneficial for overall health and skin function.
- Myth: Dairy foods are unhealthy for the intestines
Gut health has grown in popularity, and with good reason: there is so much data to back up the health and well-being advantages of a healthy gut. Unfortunately, many people are misled into believing that eliminating dairy from their diet is necessary to attain good gut health. Looking at science, there is no data or studies to suggest that dairy has a harmful influence on the gut.
On the contrary, evidence suggests that moderate consumption of fermented dairy products such as yogurt, kefir, and some cheeses may benefit the gut flora.
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The prevalence of myths surrounding milk and dairy products often stems from personal experiences with adulterated or low-quality products. Adulteration in the dairy industry is a widespread issue, with unethical practices compromising the purity and nutritional value of these essential foods.
Consumers who have unknowingly consumed adulterated milk or dairy products may have experienced adverse reactions, leading them to attribute negative effects to all dairy consumption. As a result, misconceptions and myths about the supposed drawbacks of dairy have proliferated.
Addressing the root cause of these myths requires a concerted effort to combat adulteration and ensure the availability of high-quality, unadulterated dairy products.