Dairy products represent a significant portion of the diets of many people. Diary contains many beneficial vitamins and nutrients, but it is important to get both the right dairy and the right amount of dairy. Otherwise, too much dairy can cause health problems and increase risk for others. When compared to the other food groups, dairy is the one that should always be organic as the differences between conventional and organic dairy are the most significant.
In the United States, recombinant bovine growth hormone, rBGH, is legal and used on most conventional dairy cows because it increases the volume of milk by about 10%. With that increased volume of milk, however, is a greater level of hormones and dairy is the single largest source of ingested hormones with between 60% and 80% of estrogens consumed. In addition to higher level of hormones, conventional milk also contains antibiotics that are given to the cows that are used to treat health problems arising from the hormone injections. Consumption of high levels of estrogens and other hormones can have negative health effects, including increased risk for some cancers. Dairy consumption has been shown to have a major impact on the prevalence of breast cancer As such, it is important to consume organic dairy products, which contain far fewer hormones than conventional dairy products. In addition to organic dairy, dairy products made from skim milk have a significantly lower hormone level than whole-milk varieties because a larger percentage of the hormones are contained in the milk fat.
In addition to consuming only organic dairy, there is a fine line between enough dairy and too much dairy. Because all dairy has estrogens and other hormones, drinking too much dairy, even organic dairy, can cause health issues. Dairy products are extremely high in fat and saturated fat, which are not good for the body in high levels. High fat can make skin oily and increases the amount of mucous production, which can exacerbate congestion and allergies.
Many health benefits come from eating a healthy level of organic dairy products. Dairy contains high levels of Calcium and vitamin D. Calcium has many beneficial effects on the body including maintaining and improving bone strength, keeping blood pressure low, and aiding with weight loss. Vitamin D is also vital in maintaining bone strength. Some specific dairy products have other health benefits including yogurt, which contains enzymes that are aid in digestion and help with overall digestive health. Cottage cheese, on the other hand, is very low fat and contains a lot of protein in addition to calcium.
Dairy is an important part of a well-rounded diet, but it is important to consume the right amount of the right type of dairy. Organic dairy contains far fewer hormones and no antibiotics, as opposed to conventional dairy, which greatly reduces many of the long-term health risks associated with dairy consumption. Calcium, protein, vitamin D, and other helpful nutrients are found in dairy products, and they are important in maintaining overall health. By consuming a few servings of organic dairy every day, the body will get the health benefits associated with dairy consumption while minimizing any potential health risks.
