Although dairy foods can have a healthful place in any diet, if you choose not to consume dairy for environmental, ethical or health reasons, you are not alone. Many populations do not intake dairy, and the World Health Organization states that 73% of individuals are lactose interolance meaning they lack the enzyme to break down milk sugar. Having a reduced amount of the enzyme lactase is part of normal human biology and is not an abnormal condition.

Yes, milk is a source of calcium and minerals; however, it is important to note that calcium and minerals originate in the soil and plants. Cows do not produce these substances naturally; rather, cows obtain them through the consumption of soils and plants. Therefore, plant sources are a great source of calcium including leafy greens, tofu, figs, beans, and nuts. According to researchers at Yale University, cultures whom do not consume dairy products do not have an increased risk of bone disease as they receive their calcium from these and other plant-based foods. The same study also found that countries with the highest rates of osteoporosis were also the people who consumed the most meat, milk, and other animal foods. The American Dietetic Association’s position paper on Vegetarian Diets states that fortified foods such as fruit juices, soy milk, rice milk, and breakfast cereals can contribute significant amounts of dietary calcium for those who do not consume dairy or animal products. The position paper goes on to state that well-planned vegan diets are appropriate for all stages of the life cycle.

Although NutriCat doesn’t promote or discourage the use of dairy, she does believe in presenting both fact-based sides of issues. NutriCat thanks Peggy Blitz for outlining the California Dairy Board’s position on the importance of dairy and hopes this article added additional insight to the discussion. In closing, NutriCat urges students who research food policy to be mindful of the entities responsible for the research proposal and funding, particularly those studies which promote a product or organization.

Published in : Lifestyles, Volume 101: Issue 25