Self-perceived intolerance not clinically confirmed can lead to nutritional losses
Summary
Milk is considered an important source of calcium for bones, with benefits at different stages of life, and there is no scientific evidence that it is inflammatory.
Is Milk Inflammatory? What’s True About This? “Milk is the best source of calcium for bones. We who care for patients with osteoporosis are very concerned about this ‘mania’ of eliminating milk from the diet without the advice of a doctor. The damage to bone mass is immense,” comments Sergio Maeda, endocrinologist and president of the Brazilian Association of Bone Evaluation and Osteometabolism (Abrasion).
Recognized for its high nutritional value, milk is an important source of nutrients, essential for a balanced diet and healthy growth. The spread of information without scientific support, especially on social networks, has generated uncertainty among consumers and health professionals, causing this behavioral change highlighted by the doctor.
Due to the nutritional aspects related to the consumption of cow’s milk, associations related to nutrology and nutrition have published recent consensus on human milk consumption based on scientific evidence.
See the main passages of this consensus, which refers to milk consumption for children from one year of age (if breastfeeding is impossible), adolescents, adults and the elderly.
Cow’s milk consumption
• Cow’s milk is suitable for human consumption thanks to man’s evolutionary and adaptive capacity.
• Significant source of proteins, vitamins and, above all, the main dietary source of calcium.
Benefits of Milk Consumption at Different Stages of Life
• High nutritional density, supply of proteins, calcium and functional components.
• Helps bone growth and structure in childhood and adolescence.
• Reduces the risk of osteopenia, osteoporosis, chronic diseases (diabetes, obesity), cardiovascular diseases, hypertension.
• Prevents sarcopenia in senescence.
“Pregnant and breastfeeding women also need calcium, preferably through food, because without it there is significant damage to the mother’s bones. I have also treated patients with vertebral fractures due to the exclusion of milk from the mother’s diet,” explains Maeda.
Relationship between cow’s milk and inflammation
• There is no scientific evidence that milk is inflammatory.
• Studies indicate that dairy consumption may improve inflammatory biomarkers.
• Milk consumption is associated with inflammation only in people with cow’s milk protein allergy (CMPA).
Cow’s milk and lactose intolerance
• Consumption of cow’s milk does not increase the risk of developing lactose intolerance.
• Increased milk consumption may reduce the risk of lactose intolerance.
• Self-perceived intolerance not clinically confirmed can lead to nutritional losses.
• Patients diagnosed with intolerance generally tolerate up to 12 g of lactose without symptoms.
Types of cow milk available on the market
• Differentiated by fat content: whole, semi-skimmed and skimmed.
• Addition/exclusion of specific nutrients or heat treatment (pasteurized, UHT).
• The indication for each type of milk must be evaluated individually.
Safety of UHT cow’s milk
• Highly secure and validated process since the 20th century.
• Heat treatment followed by cooling and packaging in aseptic packages ensures longer shelf life and microbiological safety.
Guidelines for the consumption of cow’s milk
• Important in all stages of life: childhood, adolescence, pregnancy, adults and the elderly.
• Recommended by international guidelines and dietary guides.
• Inclusion in the dietary routine of Brazilians should be encouraged, unless there are contraindications.
“It is worth remembering that dietary guidelines must be personalized, taking into account individual nutritional needs and health conditions. But the most important thing is to put an end to this information without scientific support and that ends up becoming fashionable and harmful to the health of Brazilians,” concludes Maeda.
inspires transformation in the world of work, in business, in society. Compasso, a content and connection agency, is born.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
