1. Rave Reviews for Raw Milk
Raw milk has become increasingly popular in today's diets, and is actually better for your health than one might assume. Raw milk is simply milk that has been taken straight from the cow and immediately cooled, avoiding the process of pasteurization (heating the milk to high temperatures to kill natural bacteria). Perhaps one of the most important factors contributing to proper raw milk product is if cows were fed on a free-range organic diet of grass, as opposed to starchy prepared grains they are commonly fed. According to raw-milk-facts.com, "heavy grain diets change the composition of the milk and hinder its ability to protect itself. Grass-fed milk has natural antibiotic properties that help protect it from pathogenic bacteria."
2. Not so Sickening
Although it may seem that raw milk would make you very sick, choosing the proper kind of raw milk is the key to enjoying its many health benefits. Raw milk is beneficial to health because it is high in healthy proteins, enzymes, vitamins and minerals. In fact, statements by various raw milk advocates explain that raw milk (from grass-fed cows) is "so full of vitamins and minerals, that it does not need any additional ingredients added to improve its contents." Many raw milk drinkers believe that by eliminating the chemicals and processing that standard milk endures during homogenization (when natural butter fat is pressed apart and eliminated), the raw milk product can help boost the immune system and have unbelievable healing properties due to its untouched vitamin content.
3. Flavor Your Kefir
Raw milk can be found in a wide range of grocery stores and dairy shelves, typically going by names like "kefir" or "fermented yogurt." Try introducing raw milk into your diet slowly, by purchasing organic kefir product with natural flavoring to aid in taste. Kefir can come in a wide range of flavors such as strawberry, pomegranate or peach, and is beneficial as long as large quantities of sugar and preservatives have not been added. It's important to remember that kefir products can be naturally high in calories, so stick to the proper portion sizes noted on the package, or try pouring a small amount over whole-grain granola or cereal in the morning.
4. Add Raw Milk Slowly
Adding raw milk into the diet may seem like a tricky process, but it can actually be an enjoyable experience if taken slowly. Adjusting to the taste of raw milk may take some time, so start by giving your taste buds 2 weeks to adjust to new flavors. Try adding raw milk into your eating schedule in simple ways, such as exchanging for creamer in your morning coffee or blending with fruit and flax seed oil for a creamy drink. Raw milk can be frozen to preserve the product without affecting overall nutrient content, although it should always be shaken before being served.
5. Be Wary, Be Informed
Despite the fact that raw milk can be helpful as part of a balanced diet, those suffering from dairy or casein allergies should avoid milk products entirely. Studies have proven that certain raw milk products (like kefir) are naturally lower in lactose levels, so may be easier to tolerate by some lactose intolerant drinkers (although results will vary per person). In addition, a pediatrician or physician should be consulted before drinking raw milk in the cases of children or those who have a immune system dysfunction.
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