Decoding the Dairy Dilemma!

In a world filled with conflicting dietary advice and cultural norms, the topic of milk consumption has emerged as a debatable issue. From childhood, we are ingrained with the belief that milk is an essential part of a healthy diet. It is touted as a source of calcium and vital nutrients, promoting strong bones and overall well-being. However, as a Clinical Nutritionist, I believe it is crucial to question these societal norms and consider milk consumption as a personal choice rather than an unquestioned mandate.

Milk, a substance intended by nature for the nourishment of newborn animals, raises intriguing questions about its suitability for human consumption beyond infancy. Unlike other animals in the wild, humans have developed a unique habit of consuming milk from other species. Ancient Hindu scriptures, known as the Vedas, mention the consumption of milk as a remedy for individuals believed to have insufficient pitta dosha (acid) and faced difficulties in digesting food. In those times, milk was considered a valuable food source, prescribed for its ability to support digestion and balance the pitta dosha. However, it's important to note that today, many individuals have an excess of pitta dosha, leading to increased acidity and inflammation. While the Vedas' recommendation of milk was based on the understanding of that time, it's crucial to consider modern dietary knowledge and consult with healthcare professionals to determine individual dietary needs and address any dosha imbalance.

As a Clinical Nutritionist, I often receive questions from my clients regarding the switch to A2 milk and dairy products. To understand the significance of A2 milk, we must delve into the composition of milk itself. Milk is composed of approximately 87% water and 13% milk solids, including fat, lactose, minerals, and protein. The chief component of milk proteins is casein, of which about 30-35% is beta-casein. Beta-casein can be classified into different types based on the genetic background of the animals, with the major types being A1 and A2.

The difference between A1 and A2 milk lies in the amino acid sequence of beta-casein. Milk with proline at the 67th position of the beta-casein amino acid chain is regarded as A2 milk, while milk with histidine at this position is considered A1 milk. During the digestion process, digestive enzymes act differently upon A1 and A2 beta-casein proteins. A1-beta-casein protein can be split by these enzymes, releasing a bioactive seven-amino peptide called beta-casomorphin-7 (BCM-7). In contrast, these enzymes cannot split the A2 protein due to the presence of proline at that location, preventing the release of BCM-7 during A2 protein digestion. BCM-7 is a known μ-opioid receptor agonist that may influence gastrointestinal physiology directly and exert effects elsewhere in the body, such as on the cardiovascular, neurological, and endocrine systems. While the impact of BCM-7 on human health requires further investigation, it highlights the need for cautious consideration when consuming milk, regardless of whether it is A1 or A2.

Moving beyond the A1 versus A2 debate, the broader issue of milk consumption raises concerns irrespective of the type. The dairy industry's use of growth factor hormones, such as bovine somatotropin (bST & rbST), and other substances have raised questions about their potential impact on human health. These hormones are administered to cows to increase milk production but may end up in the milk we consume. One hormone of particular concern is insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-1), which has been associated with health issues like insulin resistance and an increased risk of diabetes.

The use of hormones like oxytocin in the dairy industry also raises concerns. While regulatory authorities have approved these hormones in some countries, ongoing debate about their safety and long-term effects persists. In India, the unregulated state of the dairy industry has sparked worries about the sale and utilization of inexpensive yet potentially harmful hormones. These hormones, including banned antibiotics from various countries, are readily available in local markets with inadequate quality control measures. This poses a significant risk to consumers.

The usage of hormones like oxytocin injections, aimed at boosting milk production in cows, has been associated with negative effects on human health. For example, the hormone IGF-1, present in milk influenced by these hormones, can contribute to insulin resistance, increasing the risk of developing diabetes, PCOS, and fatty liver disease. India has witnessed a rise in diabetes cases, and the growing prevalence of insulin resistance can be partly attributed to increased consumption of hormone-treated milk.

Moreover, consuming milk affected by these hormones has been linked to inflammation in the small intestine, hindering the absorption of vital nutrients. To navigate the complex landscape of milk consumption, it is essential to prioritize quality and safety. Opting for organic milk sourced from cows raised without the use of hormones and antibiotics can help minimize potential risks. Additionally, seeking guidance from professionals and staying informed about scientific research can aid in comprehending the potential health implications and enable individuals to make choices that align with their overall well-being.

I encourage my clients to approach their dietary decisions with an open mind and a focus on personalized needs. While milk has been a staple in many cultures for centuries, it is crucial to critically assess its relevance in our modern lives. By staying informed, understanding the potential risks, and exploring alternative sources of nutrition, we can make informed choices that support our individual health goals. Remember, it's not about blindly accepting societal norms but about making choices that nourish our bodies and promote long-term well-being.

References :

Tucker, L. A., Erickson, A. K., LeCheminant, J. D., & Bailey, B. W. (2015). Dairy Consumption and Insulin Resistance: The Role of Body Fat, Physical Activity, and Energy Intake. Journal of Diabetes Research, 2015, 1–11. https://doi.org/10.1155/2015/206959

Behera, R., Sahu, A. K., Mandal, A., Rai, S., Karunakaran, M., & Dutta, T. (2018). A1 versus A2 Milk- Impact on Human Health. International Journal of Livestock Research, 1. https://doi.org/10.5455/ijlr.20170810113426

Kumar, A., Rao, B., & De, A. K. (2018). Milk Proteins, Health Issues and its Implications on National Livestock Breeding Policy of India. Current Science, 115(7), 1393. https://doi.org/10.18520/cs/v115/i7/1393-1398