If you’ve heard that drinking raw milk is risky, you might be shocked to learn that this information is misleading. The reality about raw milk? A thorough examination of studies and statements from the FDA and CDC regarding its dangers shows that these claims are unfounded. In fact, raw milk can be really good for your health in various ways. Even though it has gained a bad reputation among some people, you shouldn’t overlook the incredible advantages this superfood provides, as the benefits of raw milk are truly remarkable.
What is raw milk
Milk from cows that eat grass is unpasteurized and unhomogenized. This type of raw milk has all its natural enzymes, fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals, which is why many people call it a “complete food.” Eggs are also considered a “complete food.” They provide everything necessary for growth and health right in their natural form, without the need for sterilization or added sugar.
Raw milk is nutrient-dense
Raw milk is packed with nutrients. It has all twenty-two essential minerals and most of the important fat-soluble vitamins. However, when milk is pasteurized, it loses a lot of its nutritional value. The live bacteria and enzymes in raw milk are crucial for our bodies to properly absorb and utilize these nutrients. In raw milk, minerals like calcium and iodine are attached to proteins, which makes it easier for our bodies to absorb them. Plus, beneficial bacteria such as lactobacilli help with mineral absorption.
Many people don’t get enough minerals because they don’t eat enough mineral-rich foods, so the easily available minerals in raw milk are a significant health advantage. The vitamins found in raw milk support various body functions, including brain health, the nervous system, and bone strength. While you can find many of these vitamins in other foods, they are much easier for our bodies to absorb and use when they come from raw milk.
Raw milk is self digesting
If you love milk but have been steering clear of it, you might be surprised to learn that you can actually enjoy raw dairy products without any issues. Raw milk has all the necessary enzymes for human digestion. If you’re lactose intolerant, it means your body doesn’t produce enough lactase, the enzyme that helps break down lactose, the sugar in milk. The good news is that raw milk contains lactase! Plus, a lot of people who can’t handle regular dairy find that they can drink raw milk just fine. This is because the lactase enzyme is still present in unpasteurized milk, making it easier for those with lactose intolerance to digest.
Raw milk has been shown to decrease allergies, eczema, asthma, and more
Raw milk is packed with immunoglobulins, especially IgG, which help boost the immune system. Several studies have indicated that drinking raw milk is linked to better immune function. Additionally, raw milk has been associated with a lower chance of getting respiratory infections and fevers, along with a decreased risk of asthma and allergies.
Raw milk can be a concern because of the potential for bacteria, right?
Wrong! The chances of getting sick from it are extremely low. Dr. Ted Beals, a medical researcher, points out that you’re actually 35,000 times more likely to get sick from other foods than from raw milk. It’s important to note that any food can make you ill, but the risk from raw milk is minimal. The CDC estimates that there are around 48 million cases of foodborne illnesses each year. Yes, that’s 48 million! Out of those, only about 42 cases, which is roughly 0.0005 percent, are linked to raw milk consumption.
“MILK ALTERNATIVES” Are Not the Same
Here’s a chart that shows how raw milk stacks up against the numerous milk alternatives you can usually find in the dairy section.