National (Plant Based) Milk Day
Animal milk, especially from cows, has been a popular part of human diets for centuries. Thankfully, the unveiling of the cruelty animals endure, particularly in the dairy industry, has started to change the way people view milk. It has led many to reach for plant based milks instead, as a compassionate and humane approach. And if animal cruelty isn’t the tipping point for change, health implications of dairy milk have now been called into question as well.
A growing body of evidence shows that dairy milk is far from healthy and might even be dangerous for our health. From the risks of hormones and antibiotics to the potential for disease, dairy milk is far from a healthy food. It is often loaded with hormones and antibiotics (cows forced into milk production are given hormones, such as recombinant bovine growth hormone (rBGH), to increase milk production) which has been linked to a variety of health issues, such as increased risk of breast and prostate cancer, early puberty, and insulin resistance.
Another issue with dairy milk is the potential for disease. Unpasteurized milk can contain a variety of harmful bacteria, including listeria and salmonella. Even pasteurized milk can still contain pathogens, such as E. coli and campylobacter. Drinking infected milk can cause serious health problems, including food poisoning and digestive issues. In addition, milk often contains pesticides and other contaminants that can be damaging to our bodies.
Finally, dairy milk is not easily digestible. The proteins, such as casein and whey, are difficult for some people to process, leading to intestinal cramping, bloating, and diarrhea. It can also lead to food sensitivities, such as lactose intolerance.
The health hazards of milk are clear and far-reaching. The cruelty inflicted on cows to produce milk is unnecessary and avoidable. We now have a multitude of plant based milks that offer variety in flavour, caloric value, protein, nutrients, and that don’t aid in the continuation of harm and suffering.
Find your favourite, make the switch, and help us make today National PLANT BASED Milk Day instead!!
