Dairy milk has hit a downslide in the last few years with the emergence of non-dairy, plant-based milk options.
Now more and more people are asking: Is dairy healthy for you?
Here are the facts about dairy to settle the score and help you decide whether dairy is for you.
The Pros
Rich in calcium and vitamin D
Dairy milk is a rich source of these nutrients that are essential for maintaining good bone health. 8 ounces of milk can provide you 300 mg of calcium, and vitamin D helps your body absorb it.
Contains whey and casein
These two proteins are found in dairy products. Both have unique benefits in improving digestion and your body’s amino acid levels. It also helps combat soreness and cramps from workouts.
A convenient source of protein
Dairy is an easy and accessible way to get your high protein fix during the day while you’re on the go.
The Cons
Contains lactoseContains lactose
Lactose is a dairy sugar that is made of two sugars bonded together. An enzyme in your body called lactase breaks down that bond so that the individual sugars can be digested. However, 65% of the world’s population cannot properly break down lactose, otherwise known as lactose intolerance. People with this condition can get bloated and gassy from dairy intake.
Contains whey and caseinContains whey and casein
Whey and casein are both pros and cons when consuming dairy. The downside to these proteins is that they are common allergens in young children and infants.
May cause acne
More researches are backing up the connection of dairy to acne, however, they cannot exactly pinpoint why.
Packed with calories
Dairy contains a lot of nutrients, and also calories – about 120 calories in one cup of 2% milk. If you drink this thrice a day, that totals to about 360 calories – which makes up 20% of your daily caloric intake already.
The Bottom Line: Is Dairy Healthy For You?
The only way to know if dairy is for you is to try cutting out dairy from your diet for 2-3 weeks and see how it affects your body. The bottom line is that consuming dairy is an individual choice – after you’ve weighed all the pros and cons of course.
Read the full article by Shape.com here.
How is your relationship with dairy products? Let us know in the comments below!