Cow's milk is very popular in various countries, but there are many myths surrounding it. Some exaggerate its benefits, while others downplay them. In this article, we debunk the most common myths about cow's milk.
Myth 1: Milk strengthens bones
For a long time, cow's milk was considered the ideal product for bone health. It does contain calcium, which helps in the prevention of osteoporosis. However, consuming milk does not guarantee improved bone health.
Recent studies have shown that there is no correlation between the frequency of fractures and the consumption of cow's milk. Moreover, one study found that teenage girls who consume a lot of dairy products are at a greater risk of stress fractures.
Myth 2: Milk contains a lot of hormones
Some believe that due to the growth of livestock farming, farmers actively use hormonal drugs to increase milk production. However, there is no scientific data to support this. Even if there are small doses of growth hormone in milk, it does not matter for humans.
It is worth noting that in European countries, there is a law prohibiting the use of this hormone by producers. Therefore, there is nothing to worry about.
Myth 3: Milk is good for the cardiovascular system
Indeed, along with milk, the body receives potassium, which helps to dilate blood vessels and lower blood pressure. This leads to the belief that milk can prevent hypertension.
However, it should not be forgotten that cow's milk contains a lot of saturated fats and cholesterol. Therefore, excessive consumption can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Myth 4: Raw milk is healthier than pasteurized milk
Pasteurization is a process in which milk is quickly heated and then cooled to kill harmful bacteria present in raw milk. At the same time, pasteurization does not destroy the beneficial whey proteins contained in the product.
Regular consumption of raw milk can lead to the body becoming resistant to certain antibiotics. This is especially dangerous for children, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems.
Myth 5: Milk can replace water
Milk is indeed a healthy drink due to its calcium and protein content, which are necessary for health. However, this does not mean it can be used as a substitute for water. Some women believe that if a baby drinks milk, it does not need water.
If an adult replaces water with milk, the risk of cardiovascular diseases increases. Excessive consumption of milk can also cause bloating, colic, and diarrhea.
Myth 6: Milk contains a lot of sugar
Cow's milk, like other dairy products, contains lactose, which is a natural sugar. This is a natural carbohydrate that is broken down into glucose and galactose in the body.
Although lactose does give milk a sweet taste, it should not be compared to regular sugar. Natural milk contains only 3-5 grams of lactose per 100 ml, making it a product with a moderate sugar level.
Myth 7: Milk contains pus cells
Raw milk does indeed contain many microorganisms. Some of them enter the product through the udder and the teat canal. If a cow suffers from an inflammatory disease, the level of leukocytes in its blood may increase, and they may enter the milk, but this does not turn into pus.
Milk producers monitor the level of leukocytes in the product, and if it exceeds the norm, the milk is not sold.
Myth 8: Adults should not drink cow's milk
Many people prefer alternative types of milk, believing that the adult body cannot digest cow's milk. However, while some people truly cannot process lactose, this does not mean that animal milk is not intended for humans.
Humanity has consumed cow's milk for many centuries, and our genes have adapted to its digestion. Of course, one should not overindulge in milk, just like any other product, but it is not necessary to completely refuse it without special contraindications.
Source: Heroine
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