Debunking the Milk Myth: Why Milk is Bad for You and Your Bones
Did you know that in Medieval England parents would tie rabbits’ feet around their babies’ necks to ward off illness? Doctors would also spit on wounds because saliva was believed to have healing properties.
Indeed, history is replete with unfounded health beliefs, and to everyone’s detriment, the milk myth is among the most tenacious.
Milk is much more than just a drink; it’s a cultural phenomenon that can be traced back thousands of years ago. And still today, the milk myth resonates loud and clear: in 2001, the average American child consumed 104 quarts of cow’s milk.
Milk depletes the calcium from your bones
The milk myth has spread around the world based on the flawed belief that this protein and calcium-rich drink is essential to support good overall health and bone health in particular at any age. It is easy to understand that the confusion about milk’s imaginary benefits stems from the fact that it contains calcium – around 300 mg per cup.
But many scientific studies have shown an assortment of detrimental health effects directly linked to milk consumption. And the most surprising link is that not only do we barely absorb the calcium in cow’s milk (especially if pasteurized), but to make matters worse, it actually increases calcium loss from the bones. What an irony this is!
Here’s how it happens. Like all animal protein, milk acidifies the body pH which in turn triggers a biological correction. You see, calcium is an excellent acid neutralizer and the biggest storage of calcium in the body is – you guessed it… in the bones. So the very same calcium that our bones need to stay strong is utilized to neutralize the acidifying effect of milk. Once calcium is pulled out of the bones, it leaves the body via the urine, so that the surprising net result after this is an actual calcium deficit.
Knowing this, you’ll understand why statistics show that countries with the lowest consumption of dairy products also have the lowest fracture incidence in their population (there’s more on this later).
But the sad truth is that most mainstream health practitioners ignore these proven facts. I know it firsthand because when I was diagnosed with osteoporosis, my doctor recommended that I drink lots of milk in addition to taking Fosamax.
Fortunately, I did neither, because I knew that…
Cow’s milk is custom-designed for calves
Thanks to our creative ingenuity and perhaps related to our ancient survival needs, we adopted the dubious habit of drinking another species’ milk. Nobody can dispute that cow’s milk is an excellent food source for calves. Weighing around 100 pounds at birth, a calf typically gains approximately eight times its weight by the time it is weaned. But unlike humans, once calves are weaned, they never drink milk again. And the same applies to every mammalian species on this planet.
Also, each mammalian species has its own “designer” milk, and cow’s milk is no exception. For example, cow’s milk contains on average three times the amount of protein than human milk which creates metabolic disturbances in humans that have detrimental bone health consequences.
It’s important to bear in mind that mother’s milk is excellent nourishment for human babies, but its composition is very different from cow’s milk.
Scientific studies show that milk increases fracture risk
Many scientific studies contradict the conventional wisdom that milk and dairy consumption help reduce osteoporotic fractures. Surprisingly, studies demonstrating that milk and dairy products actually fail to protect bones from fractures outnumber studies that prove otherwise. Even drinking milk from a young age does not protect against future fracture risk but actually increases it. Shattering the “savings account” calcium theory, Cumming and Klineberg report their study findings as follows:
“Consumption of dairy products, particularly at age 20 years, was associated with an increased risk of hip fracture in old age. (“Case-Control Study of Risk Factors for Hip Fractures in the Elderly”. American Journal of Epidemiology. Vol. 139, No. 5, 1994).
And the 12 year long Harvard Nurses’ Health Study found that those who consumed the most calcium from dairy foods broke more bones than those who rarely drank milk. This is a broad study based on 77,761 women aged 34 through 59 years of age.
In the authors’ own words:
“These data do not support the hypothesis that higher consumption of milk or other food sources of calcium by adult women protects against hip or forearm fractures.” (Source: Feskanich D, Willett WC, Stampfer MJ, Colditz GA. Milk, dietary calcium, and bone fractures in women: a 12-year prospective study. American Journal of Public Health. 1997).
Shocking statistics ignored by mainstream medicine
In the Save Our Bones Program one of the topics I discuss is the complete disregard of scientific evidence that discredits milk and dairy products as the best source of calcium.
One exception is Amy Lanou Ph.D., nutrition director for the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine in Washington, D.C., who states that:
“The countries with the highest rates of osteoporosis are the ones where people drink the most milk and have the most calcium in their diets. The connection between calcium consumption and bone health is actually very weak, and the connection between dairy consumption and bone health is almost nonexistent.”
Surprised? You shouldn’t be, because as I mentioned earlier in this article…
Milk is an acidifying animal protein
Like any other animal derived protein-rich food, milk has a positive potential renal acid load (PRAL) which triggers a protective biological reaction to neutralize all the damaging acidic protein before it reaches the kidneys.
The body is designed for survival, so it sacrifices bone density to protect the kidneys and urinary tract because the latter are essential to survival. And the most readily available source of acid neutralizer is in the bones. So even though milk contains calcium, it ends up sapping your bones of that crucial mineral. But that’s not all because…
Today’s milk is a processed food
Until the end of the 19th century in Europe and the beginning of the 20th century in the US, milk was consumed unpasteurized or raw. Later on, homogenization became the industry’s standard. These processes further alter milk’s chemistry and actually increase its detrimental acidifying effects.
Raw milk advocates claim that if cow’s milk is left “as is” it is a healthy and wholesome drink. It is true that raw milk is less acidifying than processed milk and that pasteurization and homogenization may cause a long list of digestive and other health problems, but I still don’t recommend drinking any kind of cow’s milk.
Nowadays, milking cows are given antibiotics and most are also injected with a genetically engineered form of bovine growth hormone (rBGH). A man-made or synthetic hormone used to artificially increase milk production, rBGH also increases blood levels of the insulin-growth factor 1 (IGF-1) in those who drink it. And higher levels of IGF-1 are linked to several cancers.
This should not be ignored, especially in view of recent information by Samuel Epstein, MD, Professor of Environmental Medicine at the University of Illinois School of Public Health, and Chairman of the Cancer Prevention Coalition. In an article titled “Monsanto’s Hormonal Milk Poses Serious Risks of Breast Cancer, Besides Other Cancers” (http://www.preventcancer.com/press/releases/july8_98.htm, June 21, 1998) Dr. Epstein concludes that:
“Drinking rBGH milk would thus be expected to significantly increase IGF-1 blood levels and consequently to increase risks of developing breast cancer and promoting its invasiveness.”
Even though organic milk is from cows that are not given antibiotics or rBHG, if you truly care about your bone health and your overall health, you should…
Avoid drinking cow’s milk
As I explain in the Save Our Bones Program and contrary to mainstream recommendations, drinking milk and eating lots of dairy products are not the answer to reversing osteoporosis. And while in the Save Our Bones Program no food is completely off limits, I strongly recommend that you explore the different milk substitute options that I will list for you here.
But first, I’d like to clarify that unsweetened fermented or cultured dairy products such as yogurt, kefir, and sour cream are acid neutral. Yogurt in particular is chock-full of beneficial qualities. As is the case with milk, organic yogurt does not have rBGH, but even several of the most well-known yogurt brands have stopped using the bovine growth hormone (rBGH). You should call your favorite yogurt company to confirm. One more clarification: when I say unsweetened I mean without sugar or any artificial sweetener. However, you can add honey or stevia, a zero calorie plant-derived sweetener that is delicious and alkalizing as well. I like to carry around stevia packets in my purse so that I’m always able to sweeten food or drinks when I’m on the go.
The best milk substitutes
My favorite milk substitute is unsweetened almond milk, not only because it is alkalizing (as almonds are), but also because it’s delicious and tastes very similar to milk. I even cook with it!
If almond milk is hard to get, you can also try rice or soy milk. I strongly suggest consuming only organic soy milk to insure it’s not made with genetically modified soy. There is also some controversy about unfermented soy products, so try to use it in moderation.
And remember, if you ever hear someone ask “Got milk?” smile and think to yourself “No, because I know better!”
As always, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Share them with me and the rest of our community by leaving a comment below.
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March 10, 2010
How does the debunking classify the God given breast milk used naturally to feed babies?
Also, how safe is rice milk?
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March 9, 2010
please read “the whole soy truth” before drinking soy milk or giving it to your children. also check out westonaprice.org for the opposing viewpoint about milk and milk products. Since I switched from soy to dairy products my health and vitality have increased.
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March 6, 2010
I received a world of knowledge today. The comments are so informative and people are so helpful. I’m going to make my owm almond milk.
Thank you so much!
Flo
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March 6, 2010
You were saying that in Medievel England, Rabbits hind feet where tied around the necks of infants. Well even in the 1940s and 50s this was still practiced in the U.K. because whenever we had rabbit for a meal the left hind lower leg was removed before cooking and put under my pillow for good luck. Superstition always plays a big part in luck and health because of the folklore that gets handed down from one generation to another, mainly because something happened that people couldn’t explain and was put down to a paticular item because it happened to be there at the time when a person recovered from an illness that was considered fatal in that era. Or they had a run of “good luck” so these items became “Talismans”. When you think about it it is ridiculous but sports men and women still beleive that if they take these “Talismans”or lucky objects with them they will be unbeatable and their “Luck” will hold.
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March 1, 2010
Hello, I’ve always been very interested in eating and drinking healthy since a kid. i have had milk every morning for YEARS with cereal, and near enough every night before bed.
I am now 19, and i have been slowly waking up to the worlds lies by researching through the net . I have been reading about the bad health effects of drinking milk etc over the past 2 months, and it has slowly sank in.
And today I realized that I do not need milk at all. I have been cutting down on it over the past month and in the last 3 days now I haven’t had milk at all. And i can tell you now, that throughout my day at UNI today, I felt much more clear headed, More awake, and faster and more clearly spoken.
And I definetly think that its because I have cut down on my milk. Im never going to buy milk again.
We constantly get TOLD throught the media that certain things are ‘good’ for us or ‘bad’ for us. And the sheeple beleive the lies.
Also its not just milk, they’ve been saying the same about flouride, its supposed to be good for our teeth, so they put it in our water supply!! but its not good at all, it cause flourosis, its not needed by the body at all.
people wake up
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March 1, 2010
Last week I have bone density test.
The result showed me that I have osteoporosis. I was shocked and wooried. My doctor precribed me Actonel. One pill each month. I told him I don’t want to take the drug because it has some side effects. Then my doctor told me the same words as your doctor told you.I took his perscreption but I did not buy the drug yet.
I began searching in internet for treatmetn of osteoporosis without drug. then I found you. I am an organic diet person. I took organic unsweetened soy milk for years. However, this soy milk doesn’t show the product is MGO or not. please let me know where can I buy no MGO organic soy milk. Organic unsweetened almond milk sounds good.
I will try this week. Thank you for sharing your experience and research material with us. I appreicated.
Susan Wesotn
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February 27, 2010
Vivian, thank you for all the work you do, and have done. Your latest regarding cows milk takes me back to my youth when my aunt – who lived to 97, said cows milk is for calves. She refused to let her children have it. I do appreciate all of your information, and advice, and, having spinal fractures, do my best to cope with the doctors who want me to take all those dreadful things, like Strontium eetc. Managing fairly well at present, except for the pain ! Keep up the good work. !
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February 24, 2010
I have a grandson who is 2 1/2 yrs old at what age can he start drinking almond, soy, and rice milk.
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February 24, 2010
Interesting. Would like to know your views on cheese – cheddar, brie etc. Don’t think I’d like to live without them. But I could give up milk.
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February 23, 2010
I was just wondering, the article says that that since the milk is acidic, and calcium is a neutralizer, calcium in our own bones is used up to neutralize the acidity of the calcium…but milk is also full of calcium so why doesn’t that calcium in the milk neutralize the milk acidity??
please clarify
thanks
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February 23, 2010
what about Splenda. I tried Stevia & found it to be foul tasting.
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February 23, 2010
Splenda IMHO is toxic and stevia is foul tasting with the one exception that I have found called SweetLeaf. We use SweetLeaf brand in our household. Give it a try before you completely disregard all stevia products.
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February 23, 2010
I enjoy you web page! I learn from it with each new posting. I feel so impowered by your info and it feels wonderful to take an active part in
my new out look on my health.
Thanks for your research
Sherrie
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February 22, 2010
I was just wondering, the article says that milk has an acidifying effect which is neutralized by our own calcium thus depleating it, but milk itself has lots of calcium, so why wouldn’t the calcium in the milk neutralize the acidity of the milk, why does our calcium have to be used up?? any clarification??
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March 4, 2010
There is only enough calcium in milk to neutalize(combine with)some of the casein not all.
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February 20, 2010
hi i recently stopped giving my son cows milk because he was getting pain is his tummy all the time, he still has a bottle at night so i changed to goats milk and his tummy pain stopped.
Is goats milk ok ? or should i look at something else
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February 20, 2010
That’s very interesting about the cow’s milk. I have said to some people the oldest lady my Aunt Phylis is 101 english born and told me she never liked milk as a small child. She would always refuse to drink it. To my knowledge she has never fractured a bone. I am not a hundred % sure but could find out. I do know though that she never has consumed any milk in the last 90 -95 years or more. So I have past that on just in conversation that I know that milk is not necessary for longevity.
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February 18, 2010
hello Vivian, I have one major important question: what about “babies”..that are not breast feeding?! I know about Organic formulas, perhapes thats all we can do!?… what’s your take? I have young G’children and milk is what they are consuming. I did make sure they had Org. Baby form. at first, now some are 16month to 3yrs. Any help would greatly be appreciated. Debi
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February 17, 2010
Thank you so much vivian , i always look forward to your e-mails trying to digest slowly the information ,having so many confusing messages about medication such as forteo which is highly recommended ,for the time being i follow your advice ,exercise , healthy diet and keeping informed regularly by your wonderful e-mails ,your friend
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February 17, 2010
WHAT ABOUT USEING FOR A SWEETNER XYLITOL AND WERE DO YOU GET THE PURIEST FORM? I HAVE TO GO WITH A LOT OF NON ACID STUFF AS I REALLY NEED TO BUILD DENSITY. I AM FICING TO GET YOUR BOOK AND GO BY YOUR PLAN. DO YOU HAVE NON ACID MEALS THAT WE CAN GO BY. I ALSO HAVE A PROBLEM WITH MY ASOPEGUS AND TAKE NEXIUM WHICH I AM DESPERATELY WANING TO GET OFF OF AS THAT IS THE ONLY MED I TAKE. PLEASE ANSWER ME BACK. THANK YOU, GAIL
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February 14, 2010
Whenever I would drink milk (a very long time ago because I stopped using it), I would have asthma problems and many yeast infections. I also found that milk gave me lactose problems. So, I switched to rice milk. I also have had a lot of problems with taking calicum supplements. They cause my eyes to be very blurry and give me a heavy feeling in my body. So, I do not take these either. I have been diagnosed with osteoporios and told to take my calcium (1500 mg) every day. Well, I don’t!
Thank you for your column, it has been very informative and I am learning about how to eat better. I do eat a lot of the vegetables you mentioned in other articles, but some of my breakfast cereals were on the worst lists. So, I will no longer be eating them.
I do have hard cheese and yogurt (Stoneyfield) fat free with fruit on the bottom. I have also added an Omega 3 to my diet. Are Omega 3’s good for you?
Thanks again for your research and helpful articles.
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February 12, 2010
Just wanted to know about osteoarthritis, not osteoporosis. Thank you
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February 11, 2010
I have not drinked cow’s milk in years as I am lactose intolerant. However I do drink goat’s milk. I’ve read that it is a safe alternative to cow’s milk. Is that true? It is digested easier and the brand I buy, Meyenberg, claims that the goats are not fed growth hormones.
Thank you.
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February 11, 2010
While I am in agreement with your arguments against milk and dairy products in general,as I,ve been aware of this for some time, I have a question with regard to a highlighted comment in the article. A sentence referring to “dairy products and other food sources of calcium.” It seems to imply that no food derived calcium is of any use. If this is the case, where do we get absorbable usable calcium from.
Well-loved. Vote:
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March 4, 2010
Briefly, the best source of bio-available calcium is plant foods. Try (in combination with normal fruit and vegies) pears, nuts and also drink apple juice; the cloudy type, as it has more calcium than the filtered clear type. Eating an apple is ok but less efficient because the calcium in it is not all absorbed because we don’t chew it finely enough. All plant derived calcium is absorbed much better than tablets (which are ground up rocks, coral etc.) because they are pre-digested, smaller particle size and as it is negative (-) charged ie., allows it to cross the (+) stomach lining easier.
Hope this helps.
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February 9, 2010
Hi Vivian;
What about women with Turners Syndrom and have been diagnosed with osteo. What can you reaommend.
Thnaks for all your wonderdul research and helpful tips.
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February 8, 2010
Someone mentioned coconut milk as a substitute.
The high inflammatory rating really bothers me.
http://www.nutritiondata.com/facts/nut-and-seed-products/3113/2
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February 7, 2010
I find stevia to have a bitter aftertaste and don’t find it delicious at all although I’m trying desperately to avoid using splenda. Any other natural sweeteners you can recommend that don’t leave that aftertaste?
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February 10, 2010
SteviaClear (Sweetleaf Brand) doesn’t seem to have an aftertaste.
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February 11, 2010
There’s an organic Blue Agave natural sweetener that is good. It is a low glycemic sweetener. It is a nectar like honey and found at larger grocery chains.
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February 7, 2010
This is the way that we all have to act against the huge conspiracy that all big food and pharmaceutical companies, have designed to slave us. TRUE knowledge is the key to overturn this madness for once and for all. TRUE knowledge will set ut free from being depraved from our natural life force. Let us spread the word…
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February 6, 2010
This is one of the best, most informative articles ever written on this topic!
I am 30 year strict vegetarian. I stopped all dairy products 15 years ago, and noticed an almost immediate positive change in my digestion AND a weight loss of 8 lbs in a little over a week! (overall was 24lbs in a 2 months) It all makes complete sense, & I do appreciate the warning of avoiding non-organic soy milk due to GMO contamination. Keep up the good work, I will pass this site along!
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February 11, 2010
Hi Vivian,
I have just started reading your web articles and enjoy then as very informative,
I prefer to make our own fresh almond and sunflower and rice milk milk with dates and honey absolutely delicious but it curdles when used in visitors teas, can you please tell us how you stop that happening
James
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February 5, 2010
I am diagnosed with osteopenia and took boniva for one year then my doctor changed it to Actenol…I certainly had the rare side effect and almost got me killed..I never drank milk and hardly eat any dairy products maybe a table spoon of plain yogurt daily with dinner…I was told that because I have been on synthroid for so long had weakened my calcium…and to add insult to injury..I have congestive heart failure with a pacemaker and a mechanical heart valve…which makes it hard for my body to maintain the calcium in my body with all kinds of drugs that I take for that matter:-( bas
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February 5, 2010
Thanks for the new information that almond milk is good for the bones.
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February 4, 2010
I love almond milk too but read in nutritional healing that almonds are bad for your bones.
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February 4, 2010
I have never responded to the information you e-mail us, but I assure you that they are read and appreciated! However, THIS ARTICAL regard-
ing milk, has been most appreciated! Gratefully yours, Nancy
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February 4, 2010
How about buttermilk?
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February 3, 2010
Hi, i have learnt over the last few months that goats milk is far closer to human milk and is therefore better for us. Could you clarify this for me because goats milk is also pasteurised,kind regards, Mr.Dawkins
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February 1, 2010
Has anyone mentioned hemp seed protein drinks as a substitute? Is it acidifying?
According to this chart http://www.essense-of-life.com/moreinfo/foodcharts.htm#potasfoods
hemp seed oil and hemp seed flour are acidifying. The chart also says that almond is alkaline but almond milk is acidifying. I have a feeling that they may mean processed almond milk in a carton instead of those home-made. Not all almond milk are the same.
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February 1, 2010
Hi Vivian, Who is this person named Sharp that responds so frequently ? What do you think about some of her comments ? Is she and her comments qualified and in line with your thinking ?
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February 1, 2010
Arlene,
Anyone can comment on the articles I write.
February 1, 2010
I have started fasting on one day per week for religious reasons. Is this very dentrimental to my bones? I have severe osteoporosis, was on fosamax for about 5 years, was taken off it because it stopped working, and my specialist wants to put me back on to it. So my second question is this: Does it often happen that bisphosphonates start to work, then stop, and if so, why?
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February 1, 2010
I have never drank milk since my Mother weaned me. Milk alway made me sick to smell it and I could not wash milk vessels and my Mother had to take over. I was told by a Dr. when my stomach hurt from to much acid to drink a little buttermilk and it would easy my stomach.
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January 31, 2010
Vivian, I read an reply from one of our readers and the article concerning Soy Silk Vanilla milk it isn’t healthy. I need to know what am I to do beside take calcium supplements twice a day for my bones? I believe some of the readers say cheese, and yogart isn’t good either and do at times eat cheese and yogart on a daily basis, but I can stop. Waiting on your response from these issues.
Thank You ,
Janet Talley.
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January 31, 2010
Hi Vivian, I have a busy schedule this year, but I finally was able to respond to your posts. I do read them when I get them, it’s getting the time to respond, I shall always respond you are too informative for me to ignore. Vivian I do drink soy because my physician feels it is better health wise. From my understanding from your article I need to limit my intake of the soy milk? I don’t drink it on a twice a day schedule, but I do eat cereal approximately 2or 3 times a day. I may drink 1/2 a cup with one of my medications. Yogart is another calcium product I enjoy, I shall look for some soy yogart is this correct?
As always you and your health tips are most appreciated, keep up the good work Vivian. I look forward to your response to my questions, WE do care about our bones.
Janet Talley.
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January 31, 2010
Hi Vivian,
I cannot have soya mild due to thyroid problems and have never heard of almond milk but would love to try it. Also, as many of us would like to know, what about goats milk?
You always come up with such surprising information – purely eductional!
Many thanks
Mary.
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January 31, 2010
I’ve read that all animal milk is NOT good for humans – we can’t break down the proteins in it. We only need human milk for a short while, then shouldn’t drink it. Read what Roger Mason (www.YoungAgain.com) has to say about milk from cows, goats, etc. Also, sugar isn’t a nutrient and we shouldn’t eat any form of it: honey, agave, stevia, etc. Fruits don’t have many nutrients either. We should eat a diet consisting of grains, vegetables, and a little fish. (from Roger Mason)
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January 31, 2010
I consume a protein substitute called Pure Protein. It comes in premade shakes and bars. The company lists that it contains “milk protein concentrate and calcium caseinate” in the shakes and “whey protein hydrolysate and whey protein isolate” in the bars. I use these often for meals on the go ( with a piece of fruit or veggie). Are these safe protein/calcium ingredients?
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January 31, 2010
Dear Vivian, I personnally have always known milk was not good for humans, but didnt have the material to back it up. Thank you so much for spelling it out so planly and so professionaly. I was raised by two chiropractors and we never drank milk(during the 60s and 70s) thank you for arming me with great back up when I tell my brother in law not to drink milk with his cookies. Judy
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January 31, 2010
I would ask your opinion about goat milk, as, I have read that the protein in it is far diferent from cow mik.
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January 31, 2010
As always, lots of good information.I guess my poor bone density, like many of you, comes from childhood milk consumption.I remember the milkman coming from the dairy, with the milk in very large urns, and my mother would take out her jug to be filled. This was raw milk, delivered daily. At school all children were supplied by the education department with a gill (half pint)of milk mid morning.As a child I had eczema, which was attributed to milk too.
I admit I still like milk, but try to have my dairy as natural yoghurt these days.
I am always impresed with the helpful comments made by individuals who share their knowledge so freely. Thank you all
Best regards Nancy
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January 30, 2010
Has anyone read The Raw Truth About Milk by William Campbell Douglas 11, MD? I started drinking raw milk after reading the book since I also have rheumatoid arthritis and have been diagnosed with osteopenia. Should I give up the raw milk and switch to almond milk? Thank you so much for your e-mail. I am so confused with so much conflicting info out there.
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January 31, 2010
Please comment about goat milk
which has a differant protein structure
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February 2, 2010
Yes, lots of conflicting info out there. I always listen to my body first and foremost. Do you want to check out this book as well?
Goat milk magic – one of life’s greatest healing foods
by Bernard Jensen
http://openlibrary.org/b/OL839193M/Goat_milk_magic
The book was recommended by a health care professional.
“Hippocrates described goat milk as a healing essence in his medical literature.”
I wish I had access to raw goat milk. Lucky you!
Almond milk is good only if you make your own. But I still prefer raw goat milk to home-made almond milk as the almonds in North America are pasteurized. What does your body tell you? No lactose intolerance? There is nothing wrong to alternate between almond milk and raw goat milk. Always good to go with moderation and have a variety.
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March 8, 2010
I do not know what Goat Milk does to or for one’s bones but from experience I do know it is great for the stomach and it has a great taste.
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January 30, 2010
Dear Vivian,
It is well said about milk & its acidity. Lots of people used to drink for stomach burn & acidity.Some used to drink buttermilk. Would you comment on that. It also causes anemia in infants if they consume too much pausturized milk as the protein in cow’ milk causes bleeding in the stomach in small amounts,not visible to naked eye in the stool.
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January 30, 2010
I’m really concerned about milk now…If “Milk is an acidifying animal protein” and depletes the bones from calcium. Is it also true of yogurts, cottage cheese, mozzarella, & other cheeses? If so, what can I substitute for these products as I used them all the times.
Thanks for your answer.
Renata De
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January 30, 2010
Is it also true of yogurts, cottage cheese, mozzarella, & other cheeses? If so, what can I substitute for these products as I used them all the times.
Thanks for your answer.
Eugenia.
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January 31, 2010
Since yogurt is fermented, it’s fine.
January 31, 2010
Renata,
Use these foods in moderation and in a proper combination with alkalizing foods.
January 30, 2010
How about the people in Scandinavia and the Netherlands that are known to be great consumers of dairy products including very fatty milk and yet don’t seem to be known for high rates of osteoporosis? I myself feel better without so much dairy in my diet but I don’t know if that is the case for all and at all periods in life. My parents consumed a lot of milk and neither ever had a hint of osteoporosis and lived to be in their nineties. Thanks for your your wonderful information on tackling osteo.
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February 25, 2010
I have read a study that these countries have among the highest rate of heart disease and heart attacks.
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January 30, 2010
Wow, what an education on milk. All my life I’ve been told that milk is so good for you. Milk is good for the industry not for the consumers. Thank you.
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January 30, 2010
Would taking calcium tablets approximately 15 minutes before consuming a dairy product work to neutralize the acid from the dairy calcium; therefore not leeching calcium from the bones?
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January 29, 2010
What about goat’s milk? I read that is closer
to human’s milk in its mix of nutrients and
molecular size, making it easier to assimilate
and less allergenic. My favorite comforting
drink is goat’s milk with a little maple syrup,
and I thought it was good for my bones. Am I
wrong?
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January 31, 2010
Ken,
Here’s great info on goat’s milk:
http://drinc.ucdavis.edu/goat1.htm
January 29, 2010
Thank you for article. I have never been a milk drinker – I hate milk. I eat food with lots of calcium, nuts seeds herbs veggies and I feel just fine. Keep up your great work Vivian, again thanks.
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January 29, 2010
Hi! Vivian, Yes, you are right, my stomach cannot tolerate milk, I am lactose intollerant. I noticed when I have a little whey protein, my stomach acts up.
My daughter and grandson have alot of whey protein and milk is that okay. Do let me know.
Have a great weekend.
Millicent
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January 29, 2010
Now I finally know why I always got sick whenever I drank milk as far back as when I was a small child. I just could not drink it without getting sick.
So I stopped drinking it and drank coffee instead. Of course now I know that was not a good choice. But I stopped drinking coffee at home a long time ago but when I eat out, I order a cup of coffee. And I do NOT drink any soda at home as I know it is not good for me either.
Thank you Vivian for letting me know about this. It is good news for me.
Teresa C.
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January 29, 2010
Vivian, do you know of a website where they ;list the amounts (low, med. or high) of most foods? It might be easier to balance out my diet planning. I have not fou;nd this yet. Thanks so much!
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January 30, 2010
Try this.
http://www.nutritiondata.com/
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January 30, 2010
IF ratings are precious.
http://blog.nutritiondata.com/ndblog/2008/05/lots-of-questio.html
“Wild salmon is strongly anti-inflammatory, due in large part to its high levels of EPA and DHA, two strongly anti-inflammatory omega-3 fats. Farmed salmon, which is the majority of what is commercially sold, is also high in EPA and DHA. What most people don’t realize is that farmed salmon is also extremely high in arachidonic acid, which is the most inflammatory of the omega-6 fatty acids. This is because farmed salmon eat an artificial diet that is enriched with vegetable oils.”
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January 29, 2010
Hi Vivian,
I have used Stevia and find it a litle bitter. I was recently introduced to “TRUVIA” and read on the box that it is part of the tevia plant. Is this true and is it a recommended sweetener by you?
Thank you!
Betsey
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January 29, 2010
Vivian, I agree with you. I’ve drunk and eaten a lot of dairy products since I was baby. I live in a country where there is no lack of sun. I’m 44 years old and I’ve just been diagnosed with Osteopenia(-2.3).
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January 29, 2010
I’m interested to know if cheese has the same
capacity to rob our bodies of calcium.
A second area of concern are the milk solids
found in many products(for example slim fast
and energy bars.Do they rob our bodies of
calcium?
Thanks,
Bev
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January 29, 2010
I have the same question concerning cheese,,,,
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January 30, 2010
I would like to know the reply to the cheese question
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January 30, 2010
I would like to know the answer to Bev’s questions about cheese. I also refused to take Fosomax about 3 years ago. I do drink non homogenised milk in small quantities and make my own yogurt from powdered milk. My mother is 97 and has beeen taking Fosomax for about 15 years. It helped her with her back ache but she has now developed itchy skin with no rash or any other visible signs. Could it be the fosomax or her recent dosage of a blood pressure tablet?
Your information is very interesting. Thank you
Jennie Purdon.
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January 31, 2010
Bev,
Cheese actually has an even greater acidifying effect than milk because it is more concentrated (i.e. has a lower water content than milk).
February 5, 2010
Thank you for the info.
concerning cheese.Please
look at my second question about slim fast
that have milk solids.
What do you think of soy
cheese?
Bev
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January 29, 2010
Up until my mid 30s, I loved milk. I drank it like a baby cow. The only reason I stopped drinking it was the onset of lactose intolerence (or an alergy, I’m not sure which). At 38 I was diagnosed with osteoporosis. Now it’s beginning to make sense. Milk is for babies, and cow’s milk is for baby cows.
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January 28, 2010
ivian, I meant to say an emulsion of Vitamin D, rather than infusion. Beti
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January 28, 2010
Vivian, This is very hard to swallow (excuse the pun). I always loved milk and during the years when my mother withheld it from me as a child because I was putting on weight and getting large breasts, I really resented her for it. I loved milk and still do. This info is really hard to take, and I want to study your info and try to absorb it. I put an infusion of 2,000 iu or gms or whatever it is of Vit D in 1% milk. Thank you for the info. I will try to come to terms with it. Beti
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February 25, 2010
You have to ask yourself why humans feel that they have to continue drinking milk all their life when all other mammals are weined off after a period of time.This applies to humans as well. The enzimes that break down milk(rennin and lactase) are depleted when teeth start to form and replaced with amylase to digest starches. This is why milk is not properly digested after this point. It is also worth noting that when milk is heated(pasteurized), The casein in milk will not only combine with the calcium in the milk but will leech calcium from the bones. As you can see, although milk is rich in nutrients it is useless as a food since it cannot be properly digested.
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January 28, 2010
Is the same true about organic yogurt and goat,s milk?
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January 28, 2010
After one year on your program a bone density test shows I have stopped losing calcium and am at the same level I was in 2005. My T-Score in 2005 was -3 and my T-Score in 2009 was -3. I’m hoping it will be closer to Zero in 2011 when I’ll take my next bone density test.
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January 28, 2010
Soy and thyroid disease do not mix well. Thus drinking soy milk is not an option for people with thyroid disease.
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January 28, 2010
Dear Vivian, I find difficulty in relating some of the product names to the content of our supermarket shelves. Does Stevia have another name?
Cow’s mik seems to be bad for our health but perhaps you could find the time to debunk the belief that it was the introduction of free milk to school children that got the credit for eliminating rickets in many parts of the U.K. Jim
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January 31, 2010
Jim,
Stevia is the generic name. You can check out your local grocery stores to see which brands of stevia they sell.
January 28, 2010
My wife and I do not drink milk, rice milk for me soy milk for her. I’m glad you mentioned the gene altered soy and bovine growth harmone issues. I seem to have developed wheat intolerance in my later years (Age now 75)and wonder if you will be writing about that some time? I submitted my request for your “Natural Bone Health guide a couple of days ago which was supposed to come via email but trying twice failed to accomplish this Thank you. I sent the info on bone health to my twin sister who has serious osteoporitis, two bones collapsed. both my wife and I have mild to moderate cases. I shall send for you book when I can. Best, Duane
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January 28, 2010
Very, very interesting article. Years ago, our brother-in-law mentioned that calves are weaned away from their mother’s milk for a good reason. Similarly, humans should be weaned away from milk.
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January 28, 2010
After reading your book, I’ve completely eliminated cow’s milk and use rice or soy instead (but use very little of those). I’ve cut out red meat and eat more stir-fried (with olive oil) veggies and a little chicken or seafood. I feel better than I have in ten years. I can’t wait for my next bone density test – I’ve brought my cholesterol down by 20 points. Good job, Vivian.
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January 31, 2010
And good job to to you too, Marie!
January 28, 2010
I learned a lot here, Vivian…Thanks!
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January 28, 2010
This was very interesting to me because I a have a 16 month old grandson that does not like milk. I have told her that I didn’t think that was a problem. His pediatrician and mom are both concerned about this. After reading this article, I guess there is nothing to worry about. Maybe he knows better than us.
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January 28, 2010
I am now drinking vanilla Silk soy milk. Is this good for me? I need to have something other than water to drink while I’m working or at home. What other juices can I have that aren’t full of high fructose corn syrup? I don’t drink soda of any kind and some orange juices give me a sore throat as they are strong. I thought grape juice was good. HELP!
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January 29, 2010
I won’t touch SILK brand soy milk.
Check this out.
http://www.naturalnews.com/027450_food_foods_Dean.html
In my opinion, the soy industry is corrupted. If the label doesn’t say ORGANIC then it is GMO, right?
According to the above article, Silk was organic and now “natural” which is not the same. Trying to mislead the public. Beware.
Grape juice may be acidic??? Bad for the teeth, I guess.
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March 6, 2010
Thank you for that information. I and my 3 daughters use Soy Milk Daily. Just checked the carton and sure enough it just says “natural”. Will have to find another brand>
Flo
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February 11, 2010
One solution for you might be to purchase a juicer and make your own fresh juice out of the fruits and vegetables that you like. I recommend the Breville brand (no affiliation) as it is the only brand with the capacity to easily juice hard vegetables, etc.
I hope this helps.
Andrea
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January 28, 2010
Hi, Vivian.
I am going through some life changes. About 3 years ago I fell and broke my right hip(surgery-a pin and a plate)
Last June 14/09 a dog knocked me to the sidewalk,(partial hip replacement on my right hip) I am in a lot of pain as RH arthritis has set in. Both Rheumatologist and family doctor have insisted I start on Fosamax(Fosavance)
I am in so much pain that I gave in 2 weeks ago,despite my personal convicition and lots of studies . The truth is, going the “natural”
way,I cannot afford,as I only have my pension.
I take MSM/condrydin/glucosamine.
My question is, can I stay on Fosavance for maybe 2 months,then change over to”the good stuff” Thank You,
Heidi Holm
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January 28, 2010
Thank you Vivian for your informative and crucial information.
Blessings,
Lily
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January 28, 2010
Pasteurized and homoginized milk is the worst, but I grew up on a dairy drinking a quart or more a day of raw, organic cow’s milk. At age 50 I was diagnosed with osteopenia. Even is it’s most natural form, cow’s milk is for baby calves!
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January 28, 2010
Thanks again for a great article. We use nothing except “Rice Milk” for our cereal’s and drinking. And doesn’t Soy Milk/Soy Products give one too much estrogen. I’ll stay with rice. I grew up with raw milk (I milked the cows myself)drank very little as an adult and now have osteoporosis.
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January 28, 2010
Excellent article Vivienne. It simply reinforces what I now know and why I drink almond milk and avoid cow’s milk.
You mentioned using Stevia as a sweetener.
Another sweetener that I prefer is Organic Blue Agave.(light) This is a natural sweetener made from cactus. Available at health food/nutritional stores
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January 29, 2010
I like luo han guo as sweetener.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Siraitia_grosvenorii
Sometimes you may find this ingredient in some products (e.g. goat whey).
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January 28, 2010
love your info – thanks
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January 28, 2010
What are your thoughts on powdered or regular coconut milk. I have heard that coconuts are the tree of life.
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January 29, 2010
I love coconut everything.
MCT – medium chain fatty acid is good.
E.V. coconut oil may even help some to lose weight. Do some research.
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February 8, 2010
Unfortunately, coconut milk is highly inflammatory which may be bad for bones and general health.
http://www.nutritiondata.com/facts/nut-and-seed-products/3113/2
So, use it in moderation and balance it with alkaline foods.
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January 28, 2010
Thank you for this important information on milk. I have stopped drinking milk some time ago and replaced it with almond milk. All the changes help over time.
Celestina Marie
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January 28, 2010
Vivian,
I have a friend, 70 years of age, who has a very high calcium count. She was always a big milk drinker. She is my only friend who was never put on fosamax. How do you explain this?
Ruth
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January 28, 2010
Medical Dr.’s take a calcium count by analyzing the urine. This person obviously has alot of calcium being excreted – but is it being absorbed? Has she ever had a
bone density test? Having alot of calcium in your system or leaving your system does not mean it is being utilized – quite the opposite.
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January 29, 2010
Blood test and hair analysis can reveal calcium level too. We don’t know what test the poster’s friend did.
Calcium is not the most important for bones. All kinds of minerals are needed. Also, bone density and bone strength are two different things.
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January 29, 2010
Maybe the MBP (milk basic protein) from the milk helps. Go to Pub Med and research the papers.
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January 31, 2010
It’s hard for me to explain this without knowing more about your friend’s diet. What if she drinks milk but also eats lots of fresh fruits and vegetables? She might be ahead of the curve even though she is a milk drinker…
January 28, 2010
Hi Vivian,
I can’t wait for my book to arrive and get started on your save the bones program. After being diagnosed with osteoperosis I who never did drink milk all my life started drinking 3 glass a day for the last 8- 10 years. I have now stopped!!I have also been taking Evista for 11 years and still loosing bone.I have started taking calcium with magnesium and also taking vit.K2 once a day but a little concerned with taking Vit.K and Evista because of the blood clotting side effects that could occur. Can you please respond to my concerns. Thanks
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January 28, 2010
Thank you for this important info.! Very informative. I will pass this along, Vivian.
Always good to hear from you. Your articles make a lot of sense.
Pat
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January 28, 2010
Thank you Vivian for this valuable info which makes great sense. Now I will be better informed to tell my doctor why I do not drink milk for treating ostheoporosis.
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January 28, 2010
I stopped drinking milk after reading The Bone Health Revolution. I live in a small town and cannot find unsweetened yogurt. I use Soy milk occasionally but primarily do not use milk products very often.
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January 28, 2010
Vivian, You had mentioned a few weeks ago that you would like to speak with me because I had increased my bone density by 10%. I now have osteopenia in my spine which was osteoporosis. I may have discouraged you from calling because I said I was hard to reach. I would love a chance to speak with you! When my doctor saw the results, he said I should write a book. I told him one had already been written and it was what I have been following. I enjoyed your article today confirming that milk and dairy is acidic. I have avoided it for several years now. I appreciate your recommendation of Almond Milk and will pick it up the next time I am at the store!
I have your Bone Revolution book with copyright date of 2008. Is this latest version or is there a new one with additional information? I also have the Natural Bone Building Guide which I printed off the internet probably a year ago. Am I current with everything? I am always open to any further suggestions you have! I am on a mission to continue to improve!
Just a brief background…I had been on Fosomax and Actonel for probably 15 years. I tried Forteo for 17 days and got violently ill! I decided to just quit taking everything. I reeducated myself through your materials, changed my diet, and am pretty close to being a vegan (chicken & fish at night). Last September it had been a year since I quite all meds. My doctor wanted me to take Reclast once a year. I told him I really didn’t want to. Let’s check my bone density since I have been off all meds for a year and see what my results are. The doctor was shocked and wanted to know what I had been doing. I told him I was following your book, eating a more alkaline diet, walking 10,000 steps a day and doing weight bearing exercises, taking supplements such as Vitamin D3, calcium and magnesium and pilates twice a week. ( have Vitamin K ordered)
I can be reached at 201-248-9159 (cell) Thanks Vivian!
Carol McDermott
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January 28, 2010
Carol McDermot,
Congratulations on your success with Vivian’s program! I have started a discussion on Success Stories Without Drugs and think it is important to get these success stories out more to the public. Would you mind sharing your success with Vivian’s program on this discussion link? It would give people who have never heard of her program a chance to see that it works! Your story would be of great value to those of us needing inspiration and guidance without drugs.
Here is the link to the discussion:
http://www.inspire.com/groups/national-osteoporosis-foundation/discussion/success-stories-w-o-drugs/
Warm regards, Santa Fe
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January 28, 2010
I can’t tell from the website if the Stevia you are recommending is organic or not. I thought that if it was not organic is was acidifying. Please clarify.
Thanks!
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January 28, 2010
I don’t drink milk anymore because it caused some digestive problems. I do use Westsoy unsweetened, organic, almond soymilk on my cereal in the morning and on cereal for my nighttime snack. I was told to use soymilk in moderation by my pharmacist. I do have diabetes and allergies so I do watch what I eat and I do walk a lot. I stopped taking Fosamax and I was told I have osteoporosis. I take 1200 units of Calcium with D3, and a multivitamin. I take C when I feel a cold coming on. There is so much information out there that the lay person is so confused as to what is the truth. I am just into my 80’s, widowed, and I work at taking care of myself. Do you have any advice and how much of this almond soymilk is safe to drink. I do enjoy reading your emails and why can’t the doctors agree on health care? I question my doctor on everything.
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January 28, 2010
I drink goat’s milk. Is this any better than cow’s milk? It certainly tastes better.
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January 31, 2010
Goat milk is less acidifying.
January 28, 2010
interesting article. I am alarmed that stockpiles of milk continue to appear in many food stores!!!! If what you report is true, should there be a label on EACH carton of milk sold ‘warning’ people about the danger of ingesting milk? If indeed milk consumption is a “myth” then the Federal Food Administration department should get involved.
Incidentally, I had written to you about the “purity” of vitamins you discussed in your article about osteoporosis. I am still waiting for your comment on guidelines I should follow so that the vitamins I may buy (after purchasing your book) would not compromise the objectives your program proposes to achieve.
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January 28, 2010
Hi Vivian:
Enjoyed this email temendously. I, too, was told to drink a lot of milk awhile back. I was very much interested in the link provided for the almond milk recipe and have down loaded the contents. I will start to make my own almond milk. Thanks so very much to the sender for sharing this with all of us. Take care.
Anne
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January 28, 2010
hi Vivia ! thanks agaian for your information on milk. I stoped drinking milk after reading your book. trying to eat yogurt, nuts and fruits. For breakfast I like to eat boil plantain, is my favorite dish. I do not have that much pain in my back after I started using your book as a guide, doing a lot of exercise and Tai Chi almost every day. Thanks a lot, consuelo.
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January 31, 2010
Keep up your dedication, Consuelo!
January 28, 2010
I have never drank much milk, however, I have been diagnosed with breast cancer (all gone due to surgery) and I have been told to drink lots of milk. I hate milk, can’t tolerate it.
Good for me. How about Goat Milk or Almond Milk?
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January 28, 2010
I was told that soy milk is not good for people with thyroid problems. Your comment?
I’m a goat milk drinker as I am allergic to dairy products. It’s delicious!
EB
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January 31, 2010
Almond milk is alkalizing,Glynn.
January 28, 2010
Thank you Vivian for your fine work – as always – and for your encouragement. I would dare say that spreading the word that milk is bad for your bones is as revolutionary as wanting to abolish slavery way back in history. It is very shocking in some circles, rattles the establishment and will take time.
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January 28, 2010
Thanks for all your insightful informaion on bone health, Vivian. I was wondering if all this info holds true for organic goats milk, which I give my daughter. I was told it is much easier to digest and better for you than cow’s milk. Thank you.
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January 31, 2010
You are right about that, but it’s still an animal protein.
January 28, 2010
I find your emails very helpful, and would like to know if drinking soymilk is a better source for hehelping me with osteoporosis?
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January 28, 2010
What can you tell me about soy-based nattokinase?
This would be to take the place of coumadin that I was put on after atrial fibrillation.Hate taking medication.
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January 29, 2010
Be sure to talk to the pharmacist if you take BOTH the drug AND nattokinase. You may be overdosing.
Also, be careful if you use any enzyme and probiotic supplements when you take the drug.
Again, talk to the pharmacist who usually knows more than MD’s when it comes to drugs. Unfortunately, not every pharmacist is well trained in supplements.
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January 28, 2010
Absolutely …makes great sense…this whole milk connection…I was raised in the midwest..milk, beef, cheese etc…by age 46 diagnosed with osteopenia etc…I think all the damage was done in my childhood and early adult years…also migraine headaches, IBS etc..I became vegetarian and now vegan for the last dozen years and feel so much better…I am 55 now…work out with weights etc….feel great…bone density tests are a pack of money making lies…created by the pharm industry to rake in on Fosamax etc..read the history and stuff that goes into those medicines…you would not give that to your dog let alone your mother….I am not against practical medicines but we have to use common sense and know the bottom line he is the dollar…milk is a nice beverage if you choose to drink it occasionally with no hormones etc…but for bones…no…milk is for baby cows….if you look back in time on most stuff that is pushed on us to believe it has a giant big dollar sign behind it ..filling somebody elses pocket…etc….be strong, use your common sense…..loved the milk information…
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January 28, 2010
YOu are so right. I have had numerous fractures and my staple diet for 45 years was 3 glasses of drinking chocolate or more every day.This equated to nearly 2 litres of milk every day.
I now do not dring milk at all pity really late after many fractures and months lying on my back.
I am now well and walking but a place I will not go back to,
HILARY
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January 28, 2010
After reading the articles, clicking on all the links and reading the info about calcium published by a doctor ‘The Calcium Lie’(calcium not necessary for our bones, causing bone spurs etc.) and milk – some sources maintain it’s important for bone formation, others say it’s detrimental to our health – I really am confused! What are we supposed to do??? Who do we listen to?
It is like Russian roulette.
I really want to do the right thing – but whose advice do I follow in order to maintain or improve bone health?!
Cheers,
Trudy
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January 28, 2010
I can sympathize, Trudy. But I have just read a book explaining the different calcium studies and how we weigh the outcomes: Building Bone Vitality, by Amy Joy Lanou and Michael Castleman. Read and learn! I got it at the library & was so impressed I bought my own two copies, one to mark up and one to loan out. Best wishes.
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January 29, 2010
I think the culprit in milk is Casein. The MBP (milk basic protein) is supposed to be good for the bones.
Milk from the store is bad but GOOD QUALITY whey is okay. Anyone cares to confirm?
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February 2, 2010
(1)
“MBP, one fraction present in bovine whey, has been the focus of intense investigation…”
(2) http://www.wellnessresources.com/health/articles/whey_protein_directly_boosts_immunity/
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February 2, 2010
(3)
http://www.wellnessresources.com/health/articles/whey_protein_activates_bone_building/
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February 2, 2010
(4)
http://www.wellnessresources.com/studies/entry/whey_protein_stimulates_osteoblasts
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January 28, 2010
Hello Vivian
Thank you once again for your very informative e mail. All I can say is …”Thank goodness I now drink Soya Milk.” I have drank this milk for 10 years. My son introduced it to me when our grandson Keelin was found to be highly allergic to all dairy products. I feel better for it. Soya margarine is just as good too, for those who are interested.
take care
best wishes from Bonnie Scotland
Marysia
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January 28, 2010
Marysia, before you continue to drink soy milk, please read some of the dangers of soy consumption. This is just one website, there are lots out there.
http://www.quantumbalancing.com/news/soy%20dangers.htm
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January 29, 2010
Hello Marysia…Good for you that you switched to drinking soy. I’d like to balance out any fears you may have contracted after reading that link offered by G. Kamp on the dangers of soy. Although the article is informative with “food for thought”, in many ways it smacks of the scare tactics used by medical industries and dairy industries. The author is obviously not completely neutral and the last paragraph where he cites an FDA authority shows where he stands. The website itself is suspect, for that article seems out of place; I didn’t notice articles on the dangers of milk or the dangers of red meat eating there. The article gives the impression that Asians consume very little soy. Well, I’m writing you from Taiwan where I’ve lived for over 20 years and I can tell you a way lot more than 9.3 to 36 grams per day of soy are consumed here. Soybean/tofu based dishes are replete in any vegetarian restaurant as well as on the family dining table. Lots of soybean milk is sold in all supermarkets. My wife is Chinese and her family ran a small family business that sold warm soybean milk. It’s a morning breakfast favorite for many local Taiwanese students, until McDonald’s arrived with their egg McMuffin breakfast.
Main thing is to listen to your body’s needs. Your obviously happy with soy, so stick with it but remember “everything in moderation.” Good luck. Mimmo
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January 29, 2010
Agree. MODERATION.
I know about Asian soy culture too.
I have been wondering if the manufacturing process is different in Asia.
In the west, hexane is used as a solvent in the process by big corporation. Home-made tofu, soy milk etc. in Asia are much better.
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February 2, 2010
Thank you, and yes I will stick with what I feel is good for me. For 10 years I have been with these products and I have had no ill effects what-so-ever. When I tried to drink cows milk again I had a number of “flare ups” with my R.A. I take soya in my tea and with a breakfast cereal now and again.
best wishes
Marysia
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January 28, 2010
Hey Vivian,thankyou for yr info ,i do believe dairy 2 litres a day mad my bone denisty worse,i will never touch dairy again,our drs put us on there programs of medication,vit d and dairy,didnt help my bone dentisty after 3 yrs,drug free is the way too go!I HAVE A NEW GP SHE WILL try too put me back on actonel etc blaa dairy etc no go for me!to many side effects.
Hugs Steve x
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January 28, 2010
Is Skimmed milk a suitable alternative to ordinary milk?
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January 31, 2010
Same issues as any other milk, except that it has less fat…(and more water)…
January 28, 2010
Hi, I have been diagnosed with severe osteoporosis at age 57 years(-4.1score). I am currently taking deep sea minerals from the coast of QLD. Australia, & protolytic enzymes to help break down protein,plus co enzyme Q10, Dhea, Vitamin D3, mega magnesium plus a number of other vitamins. My goal is to alkalize the body to help with bone regrowth. I am still having laser acupuncture on my back & I believe this also helps with healing & bone regrowth. I am looking forward to having a bone density scan towards the end of the year to see how beneficial all the strategies are. As mentioned in a previous comment, I have gone against conventional medicine by ceasing the calcium, & refusing the IV bisophonates. I think my Doctor sees me as a bit of a rebel, but I need to take responsibility for my own health.:)
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January 28, 2010
Absolutely i agree best of luck,be careful with the Dhea !
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January 28, 2010
Why do you say be careful with DHEA I am interested to know
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January 28, 2010
Dear Julie,
You sound just like me, I wish I could come up with a bone building strategy, can you please get back to me, I am very interested in what you are taking.
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January 31, 2010
Go, rebel!
February 10, 2010
Hi Julie,
I am sooooo interested in what you are taking could you please email me munionmouse@dodo.com.au.
My doctor and I do not agree, I look forward to hearing from you.
With kind regards,
Cyndi
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January 28, 2010
Thank you Vivian, for confirming once more my personal contention that milk is not a nutritious product, but is rather a product designed strictly to make money for a lot of people. Here’s the URL of a website that supports that view;
http://www.hps-online.com/troph9.htm
They discuss an experiment concerning pasturized milk using cats; very informative.
Oh, and by the way, thank you for countering the propaganda and brain-washing deluging us on TV!
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January 28, 2010
It is so refreshing to read someone actually speak the truth about milk. I have been trying to tell my mother this for years but she has been brainwashed by the media and thinks I’m just a vegetarian loony…
So thanks, it’s nice to be affirmed.
And just think… we are the only species on the planet that actually chooses to drink the milk of another species. Would you suckle from a cow? It’s just too weird!
Go the strong milk-free bones!
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January 28, 2010
I have found a sugar substitute @ Albertson’s Grocery Store (in WA) called Truvia – do you know about it and is it acceptable? The label says that it is made with rebiana, the best tasting part of the stevia leaf.
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January 28, 2010
Rebiana is not an ingredient in the stevia plant, nor is it found in nature. It is produced by the action of chemicals and stringent alcohols on various stevia glycosides. Rebiana is the trade name Cargill gave their chemically derived product (Truvia) in 2008. The FDA “No Questions” letter stated that Rebiana contains residues of ethanol and methanol.
Rebaudioside-A (Reb-A)is commonly confused with Rebiana. Reb-A is one of the 11 glycoside compounds naturally within stevia leaves and are 400 times sweeter than sugar. It is produced by the action of sunlight on the stevia leaves.
Truvia is 9/10 of 1% Rebiana and masking agent (the masking agent is to cover up its bad taste profile) and 99.1% erythritol, a sugar extracted from corn with alcohol (a sugar alcohol), which can be hard on the digestive system.
Truvia is essentially corn sugar.
I recommend SweetLeaf Stevia as it is a more pure stevia product and retains the natural 0 calorie, 0 carbs, and 0 glycemic index properties of the stevia leaf, and SweetLeaf’s dark liquid form retains stevia’s nutrients.
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January 28, 2010
In the Bible, the Promised Land was “a land flowing with milk and honey” and they got it from cattle or goats, I guess, but certainly not from almonds or soy. And it was just left to curdle in flasks or skin bottles. There’s even a law from Moses about “not boiling a kid in its mother’s milk”. So, how can we here in the USA use their methods of getting the nutrition they derived from milk? There must be some way to do it. What about kefir or natural yogurt? Is that also processed too much here or is it similar to what they ate then? Kefir always makes me very sick in my stomach. Is Mexican cheese made in a more natural way and fresher? When I lived in Mexico the cheese was made fresh and by individual vendors. It was delicious, didn’t last long and didn’t make me sick or have alot of mucous. What about cultures that are centuries old in the Meditteranean? They also live on cheese and are very healthy. It’s natural and fresh. Can we get that here? I just believe that since these healthy, ancient cultures thrive on it, there must be a way to do so here, too. Can you explain?
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January 31, 2010
Anyone interested in reading about goat milk will enjoy this comprehensive article from the UC Davis:
http://drinc.ucdavis.edu/goat1.htm
January 28, 2010
Cow’s milk is bad for bones and calcium is a lie.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prSMCxJBubQ
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January 28, 2010
But, MBP (Milk Basic Protein) is important for bone formation.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11471735
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January 28, 2010
If this is a lie how come after 45 years of 2 litres of milk per day I have had multiple fractures?
It has to be true as this is the only apparent reason for these fractures,
I live in Australia and you do not see Asian people with crutches anywhere, they do not drink milk.
Hilary
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January 29, 2010
Sorry to hear about your fractures.
I agree with Vivian that cow’s milk is bad for bones as it is acidic.
I said: Calcium is a lie which is a quote.
The title of the book is
“The Calcium Lie……”
http://www.amazon.com/Calcium-Lie-Doctor-Doesnt-Could/dp/0981581854
If you don’t agree with the author, go argue with him.
People (Asian or not) who don’t drink milk can have osteoporosis, fractures too. There are many reasons.
As a matter of fact, Asian females are a high risk group for osteoporosis.
Good luck!
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January 28, 2010
Appreciate your comments. I drink soy milk now. I have heard that xylitol is also a good natural sweetner. Do you recommend its use?
Sandra
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January 28, 2010
Natural???
You may want to check this out.
http://www.naturalnews.com/023469_sorbitol_diarrhea_doctors.html
Sorbitol, xylitol, mannitol are all six-carbon sugar alcohols.
Vivian may want to elaborate.
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January 28, 2010
Xylitol is essentially sugar ( a form of sugar). All sugar alcohols are.
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January 31, 2010
Sugar alcohols are acidifying. The Natural News article is a good read.
January 28, 2010
How do you feel about goat’s milk? After I was weaned fom Mother’s milk at 15 months, my Mother fed me goat’s milk. I am healthy today at age 69 inspite of many stresses and I contribute it to the way my Mother fed me as a baby. eg. mashed food that was grown from her garden and the very best of fruits and other hormone free foods. But my parents had a couple of goats and I drank this delicious drink.
Love your site.
Ruth
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January 28, 2010
I envy you. I wish I had a goat too. The goat milk from the stores as you know is pasteurized. One alternative is to have RAW goat or sheep cheese i.e. not pasteurized.
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January 28, 2010
Goat’s milk is closer in make-up to human milk than cow’s milk (just think about the size of the beast for a start) and easier to digest.
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January 28, 2010
I’m 58 in March have surfed all my life & pretty active in other sports . I suppose I’m not full-on into the program . I still eat some of the foods I did b4 diagnosed with Osteo but less in quantity & made changes which make me lean to the positive angle . I can get a density test in April so see how I go , Rod
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January 28, 2010
I switched from cows milk and cheese, to goats milk and cheese (pasture fed animals) Do you see a problem for me?
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January 28, 2010
I’m not a doc… but as the cow’s milk is for calves, goat milk is for kids…
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January 31, 2010
It’s less acidic and easier to digest than cow’s milk.
January 28, 2010
There are plenty of almond milk recipes available on the internet. I make my own almond milk – all you need is raw almonds, water and a few dates to add flavour. Check out the web.
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January 28, 2010
Good for you. Almond milk in a box may have carrageenan.
One recipe here:
http://drbenkim.com/almond-milk-recipe.htm
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