Dairy: Friend, Foe, or Inflammation?
Next up in our deep dive into the Top 5 Inflammatory Foods, is DAIRY!
Dairy has been sold to us either through the idea that it contains calcium that makes bones and teeth stronger, that kids need it for their growth or that it (particularly chocolate milk) can help improve sports performance and recovery….however - This isn’t TRUE!
Dairy causes a lot of inflammation and digestive issues - with as much as 75% of the world’s population struggling to digest dairy or dairy products well. Are you one of them?
Since chronic inflammation is linked to several health conditions and can contribute to long-term health problems, we’re sharing our best tips to combine with an exercise program from Brantford physical trainer Bill DeHoog to keep you healthy and feeling your best!
Common Symptoms of Dairy:
Cysts
excess mucus
sinus infections
UTIs
yeast infections
difficult period symptoms
skin problems.
Why Should We Ditch Dairy?
Hormones and Growth Factors: Dairy products, particularly milk, contain hormones and growth factors that are naturally present in cows. The excess amount of this hormone clogs your pores & causes acne, eczema, psoriasis.
Cancer Risk: The protein casein in cow's milk is the most relevant cancer promoter ever discovered. Some studies suggest a potential link between dairy intake and an increased risk of cancer.
You’re Not a Baby Cow: The large amount of hormones & nutrients from dairy aren’t meant for the size of a human body. The high saturated fat content in dairy, combined with the inflammation it causes makes weight loss difficult.
Chronic & Cardiovascular Disease: Dairy is linked to the slow but painful progression of osteoporosis, heart disease, and diabetes. It’s also packed with saturated fat & cholesterol, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Poor Calcium Source: Cow's milk is not meant for humans to ingest; therefore, we have a hard time absorbing the calcium.
Lactose: Lactose doesn't digest properly, leaving people chronically bloated, gassy and sick.
Drug Effect on Brain: Cheese has a strong opioid effect on the brain, making it dangerously addictive, much like heroin!
Bill’s Best Advice To Start Making Improvements:
Start to track your eating habits to see where the Inflammatory 5 are appearing in your regular routine and eating habits.
Plan to record your food and drink intake for a minimum of 3 days, including water, all meals, snacks, and fluids.
Identify how often inflammatory foods are appearing in your diet, and which is easiest to eliminate. Start with one small removal or replacement with a healthy alternative at a time!
Start small and slowly remove more each week!
Alternatives to Dairy:
Almond Milk
Cashew Milk
Coconut Milk
Canned Coconut Cream
Canned Coconut Milk
Vegan Butter
Coconut Oil
Vegan Cheese
Check out this great collection of 73 Dairy-Free Dinners !!
See you next time when we carry on with the next of the Inflammatory 5 - CORN!
Don’t forget to consult Bill DeHoog for personalized nutrition and physical training advice in order to help avoid inflammation and its impact on your health!
Are you ready to start your journey towards Whole Body Health?
Reach out for your FREE assessment and Zoom class schedules that work for you!
Bill
(519) 770-8027