Recap: How dairy impacts your health: according to the science | Prof. Tim Spector & Prof. Sarah Berry
Aug 6, 2024
15:28
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Prof. Tim Spector, an expert on diet's impact on health, and Prof. Sarah Berry, a nutrition science authority, dive into the complex relationship between dairy and health. They challenge myths about dairy's role in bone health, suggesting plant-based sources might be better for osteoporosis. The discussion highlights that not all dairy is equal, emphasizing the benefits of full-fat options and fermented products like kefir. They provide insightful grocery tips for making healthier dairy choices, advocating for quality over quantity.
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Quick takeaways
Recent research disputes the protective effects of dairy against osteoporotic fractures, showing elevated fracture rates in high-consumption countries like the Netherlands.
Fermented dairy products, such as cheese and yogurt, exhibit more significant health benefits compared to non-fermented options, emphasizing quality in dairy consumption.
Deep dives
Debunking Dairy Myths
Recent research indicates that milk does not protect against osteoporotic fractures, a significant concern as aging populations face increased risks of brittle bone disease. Historically, there was a belief that dairy consumption, especially around menopause, could safeguard against these fractures; however, studies suggest this is unfounded. Countries with high dairy consumption, such as the Netherlands and Scandinavia, also report elevated hip fracture rates, challenging the notion that milk provides essential calcium protection. Alternative sources of calcium, like green leafy vegetables and nuts, are readily available and may negate the need for dairy as a primary source.
The Health Benefits of Dairy
Consuming dairy has been linked to lower rates of type 2 diabetes and potentially reduced cardiovascular disease risks, although the evidence is less consistent. Population studies reveal that individuals with higher dairy intakes often exhibit better overall health, including lower weight levels and a decreased risk of certain cancers, notably colon cancer. Interestingly, there are distinctions between types of dairy, with fermented dairy products like cheese and yogurt showing more protective health benefits compared to non-fermented options like milk. This suggests a nuanced approach to dairy consumption, where the type and quality of dairy matter significantly to health outcomes.
Full-Fat vs. Low-Fat Dairy
The ongoing debate between full-fat and low-fat dairy reveals that while government guidelines recommend low-fat options to reduce saturated fat intake, evidence shows both types can have positive health effects. Studies indicate that consumers of full-fat dairy do not experience higher cholesterol levels compared to those who intake low-fat alternatives, suggesting processed reductions may strip beneficial nutrients. Clinical trials have not shown substantial differences in health outcomes between the two categories, underscoring the complexity of dairy's food matrix. Recommendations lean towards including full-fat, unprocessed dairy options while focusing on quality and specific types, suggesting that enjoying fermented dairy could offer the best health advantages.