Controversies Surrounding Milk

According to the recommendations of the Institute of Food and Nutrition, adults should consume 2 glasses of milk or milk products daily, while children and adolescents should consume 3-4 servings daily. Milk is a rich source of nutrients such as calcium, potassium, magnesium, zinc, and phosphorus. It has a high nutritional value and contains B vitamins such as vitamin B2 or B12 and vitamins A and D. However, the scientific community is divided on whether milk is beneficial for the human body. Some researchers believe that milk does not affect everyone equally. Scientific studies provide conflicting results. Some studies show that people who primarily consume milk as a source of calcium are more prone to fractures. This is because a sudden increase in the level of calcium in the blood after consuming milk triggers a reaction in the body that eliminates the excess calcium together with urine. This can, according to some researchers, lead to osteoporosis and/or tooth decay. Other studies, conducted by German and Swiss scientists, show that people who consume 4 glasses of milk daily have fractures about 70% less frequently than those who do not consume milk. This is due to the presence of calcium and phosphorus, which are easily absorbed by the body.

Milk is one of the most prevalent allergens. Intolerance pertains to lactose, also known as milk sugar. The lactase enzyme is required for its digestion. Symptoms of intolerances include bloating, excess gas, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and nausea. Intolerance most commonly occurs in adolescents and adults and may also be dependent on ethnic affiliation. Intolerance also affects milk protein, specifically casein. Allergic reactions can lead to a range of unwanted symptoms related to the digestive system, skin, or respiratory system. As many as 20% of newborns have IgG antibodies directed against cow's milk proteins. The most common is casein.

Recent studies conducted in Norway have confirmed that CLA-linoleic acid is particularly valuable in milk. Its presence exerts an influence on inhibiting the growth of cancer cells in the breast, colon, lungs, and liver. However, these are animal studies, and human studies are scarce. There are also opponents who present studies that indicate that consuming more than 7 glasses of milk a day can affect the growth of ovarian and prostate cancer. The discussion about the effectiveness of milk and its properties will certainly continue for a long time. However, it is important to note that in case of intolerance, milk should not be excluded without first conducting convincing diagnostic tests. Despite the differences in milk quality compared to that of 50 years ago, studies confirm that milk is still a source of many nutrients and vitamins.