New Studies Challenge Long-Held Beliefs About Adult Milk Consumption

For years, the narrative surrounding milk consumption for adults has been largely negative. Many have been led to believe that dairy is unnatural for adults, a contributor to high cholesterol, or even a risk factor for cancer. However, a growing body of recent scientific research is beginning to challenge these long-standing beliefs, suggesting that milk might, in fact, offer benefits for adult health.

Debunking Lactose Intolerance Myths

One of the most common arguments against adult milk consumption is that humans are the only mammals to continue drinking milk after infancy. While it’s true that a portion of the global population loses the ability to digest lactose after childhood, experts point out that many others retain this ability throughout their lives due to genetic adaptations. This suggests there isn’t a universal biological reason for all adults to avoid milk solely based on lactose intolerance.

Scientific studies support this nuanced view. A population study conducted in Galicia, Spain, involving 850 individuals, found that while 38% experienced alterations in lactose metabolism, symptomatic intolerance dropped significantly when physiological amounts were consumed. For instance, only 2% reported symptoms after drinking a glass of milk, and 8% after consuming yogurt. This indicates that for many, moderate dairy intake is well-tolerated.

Mortality and Cardiovascular Health

Another prevalent myth is that dairy consumption increases the risk of mortality and cardiovascular diseases in adults. However, evidence is increasingly pointing in the opposite direction. A comprehensive review published in 2021 found no support for the claim that milk is detrimental to health, noting that its impact is generally neutral and often favorable in various scenarios.

Further refining this understanding, a 2026 meta-analysis, which examined 29 cohorts and over 1.6 million participants, identified a U-shaped association between dairy intake and lifespan. The research suggests an optimal consumption range of 250 to 300 grams per day for potential benefits.

Cancer Risk Re-evaluation

The link between dairy and cancer has been a frequent topic of debate online. However, the latest reviews suggest a different outcome, with some studies indicating that dairy consumption may actually reduce the risk of certain cancers, including colorectal, bladder, liver, oral cavity, ovarian, and breast cancers.

Calcium Bioavailability and Absorption

With the rise of plant-based diets, claims that certain vegetables or plant-based milks offer comparable or superior calcium content to cow’s milk have become common. However, the concept of bioavailability and food matrix is crucial here. A 2024 study measuring actual calcium assimilation demonstrated that dairy products have a bioaccessibility rate of 19-34%, significantly higher than plant-based alternatives, which ranged from 5-20%. This is attributed to the presence of lactose and casein peptides in milk acting as a vehicle for calcium absorption in the intestine. Additionally, many calcium-rich vegetables contain phytates and oxalates, compounds that can hinder calcium absorption.

Protein Quality

From a protein perspective, dairy stands out. Using the DIAAS (Digestible Indispensable Amino Acid Score) index, dairy proteins consistently score above 1, signifying excellent digestibility and a complete profile of essential amino acids, surpassing most plant-based protein sources.

Key Facts

This shift in scientific understanding is important for consumers who have been influenced by decades of advice to avoid dairy. As research evolves, individuals may reconsider their dietary choices based on these new findings.

Source: Llevamos años escuchando que los adultos no tienen que beber leche. Los últimos estudios dicen todo lo contrario, Xataka, https://www.xataka.com/medicina-y-salud/llevamos-anos-escuchando-que-beber-leche-innecesario-contraproducente-ultimos-estudios-dicen-todo-contrario