What Does the Science Say About Dairy?
There is a growing body of clinical evidence showing the negative health consequences of dairy consumption—especially for children. We have selected a handful of relevant papers—but this is just the tip of the iceberg. We can help you marshal resources for specific conditions and Symptoms. Just reach out.
Lactose Intolerance
Malik; Panuganti (2023)
This continuing education activity describes the pathophysiology of lactose intolerance and highlights the role of the interprofessional team in its management.
Cow's milk protein allergy in children: a practical guide
Caffarelli, et al. (2010)
Cow’s milk protein allergy has been extensively studied. This report offers a common approach for allergists, gastroenterologists, general pediatricians and primary care physicians to treat cow’s milk allergy as well as an overview of acceptable means for diagnosis.
The challenge of cow milk protein allergy
El-Agamy (2007)
Different clinical symptoms of milk allergy have been established. The diagnosis of milk allergy differs widely due to the multiplicity and degrees of symptoms, and can be achieved by skin or blood tests. Cow milk contains more than 20 proteins (allergens), that can cause allergic reactions.
The prevalence of food allergy: a meta-analysis
Rona, et al. (2007)
In this meta-analysis, self-reported prevalence of food allergy varied from 1.2% to 17% for milk, and 3% to 35% for any food
Food anaphylaxis in the United Kingdom: analysis of national data, 1998-2018
Conrado, et al. (2021)
Hospital admissions for food induced anaphylaxis have increased from 1998 to 2018. In school aged children, cow’s milk is now the most common single cause of fatal anaphylaxis.
Diet, interleukin-17, and childhood asthma in Puerto Ricans
Han, et al. (2015)
A healthy diet, with frequent consumption of vegetables and grains and low consumption of dairy products and sweets, was associated with lower levels of interleukin-17F and decreased odds of childhood asthma in Puerto Ricans, the ethnic group most affected by this disease in the United States.
The role of nutrition in asthma prevention and treatment
Alwarith, et al. (2020)
Shows dairy consumption is associated with increased risk of asthma and might exacerbate asthmatic symptoms. Current literature supports reducing dairy consumption to help manage clinical symptoms.
Milk consumption: aggravating factor of acne and promoter of chronic diseases of Western societies
Melnik (2008)
Consumption of cow’s milk and cow’s milk protein result in changes of the hormonal axis of insulin, growth hormone, and insulin-like growth factor-1(IGF-1) in humans. The epidemic incidence of adolescent acne in Western milk-consuming societies can be explained by the increased insulin- and IGF-1-stimulation of sebaceous glands mediated by milk consumption.
Dairy Intake and Acne Vulgaris: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of 78,529 Children, Adolescents, and Young Adults
Juhl, et al. (2018)
Any dairy, such as milk, yogurt, and cheese, was associated with an increased odds ratio for acne in individuals aged 7–30 years.
Milk allergy/intolerance and atopic dermatitis in infancy and childhood
Novembre, Vierucci (2001)
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is one of the most common symptoms of cow’s milk protein allergy/intolerance. Many children outgrow their AD nd develop other allergic diseases, such as rhinitis or asthma.
Exposure to exogenous estrogen through intake of commercial milk produced from pregnant cows
Maruyama (2009)
Commercial cow’s milk contains large amounts of estrogens and progesterone. Estrogens in milk were absorbed, and gonadotropin secretion was suppressed, followed by a decrease in testosterone secretion. Sexual maturation of prepubertal children could be affected by the ordinary intake of cow milk.
Milk Intake in Early Life and Risk of Advanced Prostate Cancer
Torfadottir, et al. (2012)
Daily milk consumption in adolescence (vs. less than daily), but not in midlife or currently, was associated with a 3.2-fold risk of advanced prostate cancer. These data suggest that frequent milk intake in adolescence increases risk of advanced prostate cancer.
Cow's milk consumption and iron deficiency anemia in children
Oliveira, Osório (2005)
This paper discusses the relationship in children between a high intake of cow’s milk and iron deficiency anemia. Gastrointestinal and allergic problems may be caused by early introduction of cow’s milk or by its substitution for breast milk. Furthermore, cow’s milk has decreased iron density and bioavailability, excess protein and minerals (notably calcium) and thus interferes in the absorption of iron from other foods.
Is High Milk Intake Good for Children's Health? A National Population-Based Observational Cohort Study
Kwon, et al. (2021)
The consumption of a large amount of milk of ≥500 mL (16.9 oz) per day at the age of 30-36 months was associated with an increased risk of obesity at the age of 42-72 months and iron deficiency anemia after the age of 30 months.