6 common side effects of milk on human health

by Somya Agrawal

Milk is consumed worldwide for its nutritional benefits. However, milk can also have some possible side effects on human health, such as-

1. Weak Bones

It is a common belief that milk is necessary for strong bones, but studies now suggest that milk consumption may actually weaken bones. One possible reason for this is that milk is high in protein, and a diet high in protein can increase the acidity in the body. To counteract this acidity, the body may draw calcium from the bones, which could lead to weakened bones over time. 

Another factor is that milk contains lactose, a sugar that some people have difficulty digesting. When lactose is not properly digested, it can ferment in the gut and produce acids that can also draw calcium from the bones.

2. Lactose Intolerance

Lactose intolerance is a GUT disorder. In this, a person can not digest lactose (a sugar found in milk and dairy products). This happens due to the deficiency of the enzyme lactase, which breaks down lactose in the body. 

When lactose passes undigested through the small intestine and into the colon, it can cause symptoms such as bloating, gas, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. 

3. Comedonal Acne

Comedonal acne is a type of acne that involves clogged pores or hair follicles, which appear as blackheads or whiteheads. These small bumps occur when excess oil, milk protein, dead skin cells, and bacteria accumulate in the hair follicle, leading to inflammation and the development of acne. 

Comedonal acne can affect various areas of the body, including the face, chest, and back, and it can range from mild to severe. Treatment for comedonal acne includes giving up on milk, skin exfoliation, and oral medications. 

4. Alzheimer’s disease 

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive disorder that affects the brain and causes cognitive impairment, memory loss, confusion, mood swings, and behavioral changes. It is the most common form of dementia, accounting for approx 60-80% of cases worldwide.

Milk is naturally rich in protein. Sadly, Alzheimer’s disease is caused by abnormal protein deposits in the brain that lead to the death of brain cells. This results in the loss of connections between neurons and the disruption of brain function. 

There is currently no known cure for Alzheimer’s disease, but as a precaution eliminating milk from the diet can help manage the symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.

5. High Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a type of fat that is found in many foods (like milk) but is also produced naturally by the liver. While human bodies need cholesterol in moderate amounts to function properly. when there is too much of it in the blood, it can lead to the buildup of fatty deposits in the arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. 

This high cholesterol can be managed with lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet excluding milk, exercise, and, in some cases, medication.

6. Hormonal imbalance

Hormones are chemical messengers that regulate various physiological processes, such as growth and development, metabolism, mood, and reproduction.  

Hormonal imbalance refers to a condition where the body is producing too much or too little of certain hormones. 

Milk naturally contains a hormone known as insulin-like growth factor that promotes the production of androgen and estrogen in the body. This results in an imbalance of hormones in the body. Besides, cow milk also contains hormones that are injected into them to improve milk production. These hormones when consumed by humans can lead to implications like Type-1 diabetes. 

wrapping up

Milk is an important source of essential nutrients like calcium, protein, and vitamins but it is also rich in fat, lactose, hormones, and sugar. Hence, it is crucial to be aware of the potential side effects of milk on human health. 

To stay healthy, people should consider alternative sources of nutrients, while limiting the consumption of milk along with a balanced diet.