Big money has been spent convincing us that we “need” milk for healthy bones, a slim waist, and to help our children grow big and strong. Diary is, after all, one of the essential food groups on the USDA’s food pyramid. It has been estimated, however, that up to 75% of the world’s population does not properly digest either the proteins (casein and whey) or the sugars (lactose) in cows milk. Therefore, we must ask ourselves, Does drinking milk do us more harm than good?
Do you or your children experience any of these symptoms?
Bloating and gas
Constipation, diarrhea, IBS
Inability to lose weight
Acne or Eczema
Back or stomach pain
Inflammation
Suppressed immune system or chronic ear infections
ADHD
Fatigue
Bed wetting
If you answered “yes” to one or more of the above, you should consider testing yourself and/or your child for dairy sensitivity. You can do this very simply by eliminating all dairy products (see list below) for 2-3 weeks. Then, if your body hasn’t already given you a clear answer, reintroduce it by drinking a full glass of milk in the morning and see what happens. Depending on how your body does or doesn’t react, you will learn if you can properly digest dairy. If you do not experience any reaction, feel free to keep dairy in your diet. Yet, I strongly recommend that you buy only organic milk (free of hormones, antibiotics, and pesticides).
Calcium
The most absorbable calcium supplement will contain a blend of calcium citrate, magnesium, and vitamin D. Eat calcium-rich foods such as leafy greens, broccoli, hazelnuts, amaranth, and almonds and avoid drinking high-phosphorus containing sodas which leach calcium from your bones.
My favorite milk substitutes include: unsweetened almond milk for kids, soy milk for coffee, coconut milk for cooking, coconut oil for baking, and coconut ice cream for a delicious dessert.
Dairy Foods List
Milk
Cream (even a little in coffee)
Cheese
Yogurt
Sour cream
Cottage cheese
Cream cheese
Goat milk & cheese
Ice cream
Frozen yogurt
Anything containing Whey or Casein.
Hidden sources may include pasta sauce, energy bars, sports drinks, “non-diary” cheese, and other processed foods.
