In our Western society, it has been believed for long time that dairy products rich in calcium and protein help us to keep our bones strong and lessen our chance of fractures. Recent studies have even shown that low fat dairy products may lower our risk of colon polyps, and help us lose weight.
The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend to consume 3 cups per day of fat-free or low-fat (1%) milk or equivalent milk products for adults and kids 9 years and older, and 2 cups for kids 2 to 8 years old.
On the other hand, there are research studies that demonstrate milk consumption increases the risk for chronic diseases. In his book The China Study, Dr. Campbell, from Cornell University, states that drinking milk increases the risk for cancer, heart disease and even osteoporosis. Campbell directed “The China Study” the most extensive epidemiological study that correlates diet and disease. He and his group found out that people who ate the most animal-based foods, especially milk, got the most chronic disease; while people who ate the most plant-based foods were the healthiest and tended to avoid chronic disease.So why is the government of the United States recommending us to drink milk? According to Campbell, there are enormously wealthy industries that stand to lose a huge amount of money if Americans start shifting to a plant-based diet. In other words, profits are promoted over health, and technology over food.
Now, we have to decide what to eat?I would suggest to follow Michale Pollan’s advise: Eat foods, not too much, mainly plants. Which means to eat as much fresh-not processed foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains (brown rice, quinoa, millet, oat, wheat…), beans, nuts and seeds. Don’t make animal products the center of your diet; use them more as a side dish, even for kids.
The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend to consume 3 cups per day of fat-free or low-fat (1%) milk or equivalent milk products for adults and kids 9 years and older, and 2 cups for kids 2 to 8 years old.
On the other hand, there are research studies that demonstrate milk consumption increases the risk for chronic diseases. In his book The China Study, Dr. Campbell, from Cornell University, states that drinking milk increases the risk for cancer, heart disease and even osteoporosis. Campbell directed “The China Study” the most extensive epidemiological study that correlates diet and disease. He and his group found out that people who ate the most animal-based foods, especially milk, got the most chronic disease; while people who ate the most plant-based foods were the healthiest and tended to avoid chronic disease.So why is the government of the United States recommending us to drink milk? According to Campbell, there are enormously wealthy industries that stand to lose a huge amount of money if Americans start shifting to a plant-based diet. In other words, profits are promoted over health, and technology over food.
Now, we have to decide what to eat?I would suggest to follow Michale Pollan’s advise: Eat foods, not too much, mainly plants. Which means to eat as much fresh-not processed foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains (brown rice, quinoa, millet, oat, wheat…), beans, nuts and seeds. Don’t make animal products the center of your diet; use them more as a side dish, even for kids.