Is dairy good for you or bad for you? A quick online search reveals plenty of opposing opinions on the matter. We reveal the facts by exposing the myths.
Myth 1: Excessive dairy causes health problems.
One of the most prevalent misbeliefs about dairy is that it can cause conditions as minor as acne or as serious as cancer. However, current research doesn’t support either of these claims.
Concerns also abound that hormones in milk cause girls to go through puberty at an earlier age. According to researchers from Pennsylvania State University, this isn’t the case. The actual cause could be any number of things, ranging from obesity to potential chemical exposure.
Myth 2: Dairy’s only benefit is its nutrients that contribute to bone strength.
Healthy eating habits, including a balanced diet (of which dairy is a part), have been connected to lower risk of conditions such as Type 2 diabetes. Studies have found drinking chocolate milk after your workout helps your muscles recover more quickly and efficiently.
Myth 3: Lactose-intolerant people shouldn’t consume dairy.
If consuming dairy makes you uncomfortable or physically ill, there are many alternatives, including almond, soy and coconut milk. If it’s dairy you crave, ask your doctor about medications that may help you enjoy dairy without feeling the effects.
Boost Your Bone Strength
Approximately 80 percent of the 10 million Americans with osteoporosis are women, according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation. Ensure your calcium intake supports strong bones to put your best foot forward.
Estrogen levels decrease as you age. Because of estrogen’s role in bone density, bone mass can decrease as well. It’s important to consume enough calcium each day to protect your bone health. Women age 50 and younger need 1,000 milligrams of calcium each day, while women 50 and older need 1,200 milligrams.
Dairy products aren’t the only sources of calcium out there. Mix it up and try these calcium-rich foods:
To schedule an appointment with a Riverview Health primary care physician, call 317.565.0535.
Sources: foodinsight.org, bestfoodfacts.org, dairygood.org, niddk.nih.gov, health.harvard.edu, nof.org, bones.nih.gov, sleep.org, orthoinfo.aaos.org, choosemyplate.gov, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
