Milk was a vital part of the American diet for many years. Its health benefits were unquestioned prior to the 1930s and 1940s, notes Dr. Tom Cowan on RealMilk.com. Raw milk is unpasteurized milk straight from the cow. It contains all of the enzymes and proteins that may help with digestion of the milk. Unlike pasteurized milk, raw milk may be easier for some individuals to tolerate, especially people with lactose intolerance, decreasing intestinal upsets including diarrhea and constipation. There are no medical studies proving the effectiveness of raw milk for digestion.
Lactase Connection
Raw milk contains an enzyme known as lactase whose job is to break down lactose. Lactose, also known as milk sugar, is the component of milk that can wreak havoc on the digestive systems of some individuals. Though not scientifically proven, raw milk may be more easily digested for lactose-intolerant individuals because lactase isn't damaged through pasteurization. Some individuals who experience diarrhea after drinking pasteurized milk are able to drink raw milk without the unpleasant side effect of diarrhea.
Constipation
Excessive milk intake is often blamed for contributing to constipation at any age. One factor that may contribute to this effect when drinking pasteurized milk is because pasteurization reduces the amount of iodine in the milk. Constipation can also be a sign of milk intolerance. Raw milk may improve regularity, but there is no medical proof and further research is needed. Regularity also depends on the other foods you eat, not just the consumption of raw milk. Dr. Joseph Mercola does note, however, that raw milk doesn't actually cause constipation.
Choosing Raw Milk
If you try raw milk, hoping it may help with regularity or as an alternative to pasteurized milk if you are lactose-intolerant, choose wisely. Purchase raw milk only from a reputable farmer who uses good practices. The cows should be allowed to graze in large grassy fields, not fed a grain diet that can alter their health. Choosing a dairy farm where milk is tested for disease will decrease the risk of infection from contaminated milk.
Considerations
The FDA warns against the consumption of raw milk due to the potential of bacteria in the milk. Raw milk isn't advised for some individuals, including those with compromised immune systems, pregnant women and the elderly. Talk to a health care professional knowledgeable of the benefits of raw milk for further advice and recommendations about raw milk and digestive regularity.
References
- Raw Milk Facts: FAQ
- Natural News: The Dangers Versus the Benefits of Raw Milk; Sheryl Walters; September 2008
- FDA: Problems Digesting Dairy Products
- Real Milk: Raw Milk; Tom Cowan, M.D.
- Real Milk: Raw Milk Vs. Pasteurized Milk; June 1938
- Mercola.com: Autism and Malnutrition; Dr. Joseph Mercola; June 2004
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