The consumption of dairy products is a topic that has been debated for years with varying opinions. Some health experts have argued that dairy products are harmful to the body while others have maintained that dairy products are incredibly beneficial.

However, a new study has found that dairy consumption is harmless to our health. The study, which was published in the journal, Nutrients, examined the effect of dairy consumption on health indicators such as blood pressure, BMI, and cholesterol levels and found that dairy products did not have any adverse effects.

The Study

The study was conducted by a team of researchers from the University of Reading, the University of Surrey, and Imperial College London.

The team analyzed a total of 29 clinical trials that included data from more than 900 individuals, ranging in age from 18 to 65 years old. The trials lasted for a duration of between two weeks to two years and focused on the effect of dairy consumption on various health indicators.

The researchers found that overall, there was no significant effect of dairy consumption on blood pressure, BMI, or cholesterol levels.

Furthermore, the study found that consuming dairy products did not increase the risk of type 2 diabetes or cardiovascular disease. The results of the study support previous research that has also found that dairy products do not have any harmful effects on health.

The Benefits of Dairy Consumption

Dairy products are an important source of nutrients such as calcium, vitamin D, and protein that are essential for the growth and maintenance of the body.

Calcium, which is found in high amounts in dairy products, is essential for strong bones and teeth. Vitamin D, which is also found in dairy products, helps the body absorb calcium and maintain bone health. Protein is important for building and repairing tissues in the body and is also essential for the growth and development of muscle.

In addition to providing important nutrients, dairy products have also been linked to a reduced risk of certain diseases such as osteoporosis, colon cancer, and type 2 diabetes.

It is believed that the calcium and vitamin D found in dairy products play a role in reducing the risk of osteoporosis while the other nutrients found in dairy products could also contribute to the reduced risk of other diseases.

Recommendations for Dairy Consumption

Based on the findings of the study, it is clear that dairy consumption is not harmful to our health. However, it is important to note that not all dairy products are created equal.

Some dairy products such as ice cream and cheese are high in fat and should be consumed in moderation. Instead, individuals should aim to consume low-fat dairy products such as skim milk, low-fat yogurt, and low-fat cheese.

The recommended daily intake of dairy products varies depending on age and gender. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the recommended daily intake of dairy products for adults is 3 cups per day.

It is important to note that individuals who are lactose intolerant or have a dairy allergy should avoid consuming dairy products or should consume dairy products that have been specifically formulated to be lactose-free.

The Bottom Line

The results of the study show that dairy consumption is harmless to our health. In fact, consuming dairy products provides important nutrients that are essential for the growth and maintenance of the body.

Individuals should aim to consume low-fat dairy products in moderation to reap the benefits of dairy consumption while avoiding the negative effects of consuming high-fat dairy products.