3 Surprising Things That Happen When You Stop Drinking Milk (Besides Improving Your Bones) - Save Our Bones

When I visited a friend of mine last week, I noticed a gallon of cow’s milk in her refrigerator.

She saw my expression of surprise, and almost apologetically explained that her grandchildren loved milk, so she had bought it especially for their visit.

But it really pained me to know that she was giving her grandchildren such a toxic concoction.

Fortunately, Savers already know to avoid milk, because it is both acidifying and toxic.

But today you’ll learn how milk damages bones and overall health in multiple seldom-mentioned ways, some of which I’m sure will shock you.

“Drink Plenty Of Milk”

That’s what my doctor told me when he diagnosed me with osteoporosis. But as you’ll see, that advice is dead wrong…in fact, it’s damaging, even if you are part of the minority who is tolerant of lactose.

So let’s look at three reasons why this advice is so misguided, and…

How Your Bones And Health Will Benefit When You Avoid Milk

1. You Will Bring Your Hormones Back Into Balance

Many people assume that if a milk carton claims “no artificial hormones added”, then the milk is hormone-free. The reality is that milk naturally contains many hormones, whether it’s raw, pasteurized, grass-fed, organic, or “hormone-free.” In fact, milk contains some 60 hormones, even if it comes from a cow that’s never been given hormones artificially.

Here are just a few of the hormones present in your glass of milk:

  • Progesterone (from pregnenolone)
  • 5α-pregnan-3β-ol-20-one, 20α- and 20β-dihydroprogesterone (from progesterone)
  • Androstenedione
  • Insulin
  • Testosterone
  • Insulin like growth factors 1 and 2 (IGF-1 and IGF-2)

Bovine Growth Hormone

To keep milk production going, dairy cows are routinely injected with recombinant bovine growth hormone (rBGH), an FDA-approved, synthetic hormone that boosts cows’ milk supply. It’s just not possible for a cow to give the amount of milk required to meet the demand without artificial hormonal stimulation.

rBGH causes an increase in the cow’s levels of insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1), which then ends up in her milk. IGF-1 is impervious to pasteurization and even digestion, meaning it is absorbed into the bloodstream virtually unchanged.

In addition, rBGH itself can be present in milk and absorbed, increasing IGF-1 in the human body just as it does in the cow’s body.

As their names imply, rBGH and IGF-1 are intended to grow things (specifically, calves). The problem is, they grow the wrong things in humans – like cancer cells.

Yet another problem with this synthetic hormone is that is makes cattle more susceptible to infections of the udder, which necessitates the use of antibiotics. (More on antibiotics in milk later.) In fact, many dairy farmers who administer rBGH routinely give antibiotics even if no infection is present, paving the way for the development of “superbugs,” or antibiotic-resistant bacteria which then enter the food supply.

Remember, even cows who were never administered rBGH do not produce hormone-free milk. Raw milk, organic milk, it doesn’t matter; all milk is naturally rich in growth hormones because it’s intended to grow calves.

2. You Will Not Ingest Pus Cells And Antibiotics

Your glass of milk contains an alarming amount of pus, and here’s why.

As I mentioned above, when cows are given rBGH, it makes them susceptible to chronic mastitis (an infection of the udder). The prevalence of this disease has given rise to the American dairy industry declaring an allowable number of “somatic cells” (body cells) to be present in milk.

Somatic cells are present in all mammalian milk; it’s inevitable since milk is manufactured in the body. If the milk cow is healthy, somatic cells are no big deal. In sick and infected cows, however, somatic cells are greatly increased in number and take the form of neutrophils, or the cells that form pus.

Bear that in mind when you consider this fact: the average number of somatic cells present in American milk is 1,120,000. And most of those are pus.

Here’s another issue with chronic infections and the administration of antibiotics: the antibiotics end up in the milk, and antibiotics actually accelerate bone loss.

3. You Will Reduce Your Pesticide Exposure

The nutrition-based Osteoporosis Reversal Program is full of delicious, bone-rejuvenating Foundation Foods. It emphasizes whole, fresh foods – particularly fruits and vegetables – and I recommend organic, because pesticides are toxic and detrimental to your bones and your health.

And pesticide residue is also present in milk. Yet another way that milk destroys your bones…

According to a 2004 study by the USDA’s Pesticide Data Program (PDP), pesticide residues in milk are alarmingly prevalent and pervasive. Over 95% of the milk samples in the study contained DDE1, a chemical that results from the breakdown of the infamous pesticide DDT, which was banned in the 1970s. Despite the ban, DDT is fiercely persistent in the environment, particularly in soil. The cattle ingest this when they eat hay, corn, grass, etc. grown on land that was once soaked with DDT.

The PDP also found diphenylamine (DPA) in 99% of the samples, an industrial chemical used in the manufacture of certain drugs, plastic, and rubber.1

Dieldrin is another banned pesticide, found in 41% of the PDP’s samples.1

The list goes on to include endosulfan sulfate, which disrupts the endocrine system, and 3-hydroxycarbofuran which is a very toxic byproduct of carbamate insecticide breakdown.1

There are still other poisonous pesticides found in milk… the list is really extensive.

The bottom line is that by avoiding milk, you are steering clear of a major source of pesticide exposure and ingestion.

Personally, I don’t need any more convincing that it’s a myth that cow’s milk is good for your bones.

What About Yogurt, Cheese, And Other Dairy Products?

I know that all dairy products are made from cow’s milk. That’s why, even though plain, organic yogurt is alkalizing, I never recommend eating large amounts of it or any one food. Cheese is acidifying, as are all dairy products that are not fermented and do not contain probiotics. So when you followthe Osteoporosis Reversal Program, you won’t be ingesting a great deal of cheese or any other dairy product.

What About Raw Milk?

Many of you have written in and asked about raw, unpasteurized, organic milk and have correctly pointed out that it is generally less contaminated than processed, pasteurized, homogenized milk. But I still do not recommend drinking milk, and here’s why.

As I mentioned above, all milk contains hormones. Store-bought milk has synthetic rBGH, and raw, organic milk has natural hormones intended to boost the growth of calves…it is not intended for people.

Also, pesticide residue can still be found in organic, grass-fed milk due to the persistence of pesticides in the environment.

Finally, raw milk that is safe and affordable is very difficult to obtain. Without health benefits (and proven health detriments), it’s just not worth it to try to get raw milk, especially when so many delicious alternatives are available (as we’ll see below).

So What’s A Saver To Drink?

In addition to distilled water with lemon juice, bone-healthy lemonade, and other healthful beverages, I drink unsweetened almond milk as a bone-healthy milk alternative.

There are many other nut milks available as well, such as hemp and coconut. You can easily make your own nut milks at home, too, from hazelnuts, cashews, almonds, and so forth – the internet is full of DIY recipes for these wholesome beverages. This is a good choice if you want to avoid sugar and other additives that sometimes make their way into commercial nut milks.

When you make the switch from cow’s milk to nut milks and other healthful drinks, you might be concerned about the build-up of toxins you’ve incurred over the years – and rightfully so.

When I embarked on the Program as my own guinea pig…

I Knew I Had Toxins In My System

They’re practically unavoidable! That’s what I had in mind when I created the Osteoporosis Fresh Start Cleanse: The 7 Day Bone Building Accelerator, so I could help those who seek a natural yet scientifically-backed solution to osteoporosis jump-start their bone rejuvenation endeavors.

Through a 7-day process of key foods, beverages, and even breathing techniques, the Osteoporosis Fresh Start Cleanse helps your body rid itself of all kinds of toxins, such as osteoporosis drugs (and other drugs), food additives, and harmful pesticide residue.

These poisons are not only acidifying; many of them are hormone disruptors and deplete the body of key vitamins and minerals needed to build bone.

It only takes a week, and you can do the cleanse whenever you’ve had to take medication, or if you’ve been exposed to toxins (such as after a vacation when you ate conventionally-grown foods, or when you’ve spent time in an area with a lot of pollution).

The Osteoporosis Fresh Start Cleanse is a revolutionary and pleasant way to rid your body of toxins, renewing your bones and boosting your overall health. I encourage you to check it out today!

Till next time,

References

1 “State of Science Review: Review: The Organic Option. The Organic Center. March 2008. PDF. https://grist.files.wordpress.com/2008/03/pesticide_ssr_2008.pdf

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Comments on this article are closed.

  1. pei

    look up at the prehistoric diet of our ancestors. they often ate mostly vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds and sometimes meat when they needed to hunt animals for clothes and bedding but dairy nor grains never existed in their lifetime. but their bone health were more better than we are in the modern world so there is evidence to prove eliminating milk will not harm us!

    • Deep Thinker

      Hey PEI. The word “prehistoric” means “before we have any information about what was happening”. So your comment makes no sense. We have no data for prehistoric man’s diet or bone density because, um, well, he’s frickin’ *prehistoric*. So milk on man, milk on.

  2. Samantha

    Idc what y’all say I love milk so much I drink a glass or two almost every single day . If that takes a few years away oh well, almond milk is water down milk, gross. Anything else gross. When I’m freaking hot I crave a COLD GLASS OF MILK not water . I force myself to drink water but milk is my favorite. My bones are actually great , never had a broken bone never had problems with em, milk is amazing . People can drink it if they want or not don’t care

    • Chris

      I agree with you 100% and I’m lactose lol these ppl is crazy hahhaha

  3. Alex Furnish

    I came here looking for some science as to why I should stop drinking milk. This is biased and mostly not based in any fact at all. Conjecture an opinion with no citation.

    The world will not change until we start being honest and join together. Dont lie to people, you are just as bad as the “quorn is mushroom” lie. Very disappointing.

    • jj

      You are absolutely correct. This post is full of unsupported drivel. I don’t drink milk because the antibiotic issue and the CO2 emissions, but this is full of disinformation and bias. All the acidifying/alkalizing stuff is just magical nonsense and has no biological basis.

  4. Ava potter

    milk is fatining in some ways but, i will say that i will die in a second or two.

  5. Billy Ross III

    Hi there I’m Billy and I know that milk is good for me. I eat dairy products everyday because I have the genes necessary for milk and other dairy products. My ancestors are mostly British and all of them ate dairy products. I went to an Iowa farm where they raised Holstein cows and the cows were treated as humanely as possible. I mean come on, it’s milk for goodness sake. If you can drink milk, then by all means go for it and if you can’t, then don’t.

    • Joshua

      Milk is for babies period.Adults do not need it. Unless a cup or 2,with digesting meats..

      • Sam

        Joshua shut up. Milk is for whoever wants to drink it.

    • Ava potter

      I eat a lot of vitimans and vegitabels every day at least i am i vegatarian. i drink milk because i need my notryence every singla day. i am single i do not have any boyfriend.

      • Eliza

        Hey Ava Im so glad you’ve been getting your notryence!!! Very important for your overall health and for your love life!

  6. EDS

    I love the taste of skim milk, but II must admit that since Ive stopped dribking it, Ive list 15 pounds and never diet….. just stopped drinking the milk……. I still eat cheese now and then, but no other dairy……I also feel better as my sinuses have cleared and less allergies…… im sold.

  7. Mandeep

    I think you need a rehab..now…lol…chill out and avoid giving overly concious advice also stop negatively reinforcing people with such info ..instead try challenging someone who drinks milk with any physical or mental activity… I’m sure he/she will leave u miles behind..

    • EDS

      Chill out…..

    • Mandeep

      And btw…its only due to bad agricultural practices…had we never had done bad with nature..the nature wouldn’t be this bad with us too…have a nice “non-dairy-creamer-full” day☺?

      • Leyli

        Nah, people or other living beings are not supposed to consume the milk of another species. Has nothing to do with agriculture today. Just nature, at its simplest.

        • Austin

          Then why has one 2/3 of the population evolved with a gene that allows the processing of milk into adulthood?

          • Eliza

            Because other forms of foods were scarce, all the history I’ve read states that dairy farming is a relatively new occurance. And those populations were predominant in Britain, Ireland, Etc…as you stated. Also, not sure where you are getting 2/3rds from, because Ive read much lower percentages. Can you cite?

  8. BillClintonSupremacy

    Of course you think milk is bad you disgusting lactose-intolerant cancer jew for a quacker.

    • BillClintonSupremacy

      Triracial jew semite is mad because she can’t digest milk like real white people can. :DDDDDDDD

      • EDS

        You are probably a fat NAZI Cow……..since you seem to be name calling….

  9. Rose

    Not all cows are given antibiotics and not all of them have mastitis and if they have mastitis you should put that milk in a bucket and feed it to calves and cats. Mastitis milk should NEVER go into the bulk tank. Before you put the milker on a cow you should strip them out to make sure that they don’t have mastitis and if they don’t then you can put the milk up the line into the bulk tank. I know this because I work on a dairy farm and we do NOT put milk with mastitis into the bulk tank it is fed to the calves and the cats.

    • Muriel

      Cow’s milk is bad for cats, even if they love it.

  10. Jack

    I grew up loving milk, iced coffees everyday as a teenager aswell as in my 20’s. Now I have 2-3 Lattes a day & eating ice cream at will. I have always had s bit of acne here & there & it got to a point when I was confused about the acne as I was in my late 30’s. In the last 3 months I have given up milk & noticed a vast improvement in my skin. I will still eat feta & Greek yoghurt, but have found since giving up the milk I feel better & the acne is finally all gone. Everyone is different, but milk just isn’t for me, which is a shame cos I luv it!!!

  11. greg

    I stopped drinking milk for more than 1 year now. Then I started drinking almond milk. Then I read the ingredients in almond milk so I stopped drinking that. I feel no different, I didn’t notice any changes when I stopped drinking milk. That’s my experience.

    • Mr. Finklestein

      I’m guessing you still consumed other dairy products. That’s why.

  12. babyboby

    The hormone present is due to bad agricultural practice not because of the nature of the milk itself. The very reason why many people chose vegan lifestyle is because of capitalism.

    • Mary

      The ‘hormone’ present? There are over 60 hormones present in milk. Did you even read this article?

      • Elizabeth

        Do you believe everything you read? For every article written by a scare-mongering vegan, there are 10 more to dispute what she wrote. It’s a crock. I am 50, I drink 1% milk regularly. I buy milk that is organic and from cows not treated with rBGHt. I feel great and my doctor did a bone scan and said my bones are very dense and strong. This article has to be the worst anti-milk propaganda I’ve ever read. And whole milk is very good for kids, especially when their bones are forming.

        • Sid

          How u know dat cow doesnot injected wid hormones?

          • david

            Physiologist here… whether hormone is injected OR already present. It doesnt matter. Hormones (in particular) rBST/BGH / any other growth hormone is actually a protein hormone. These hormones are broken down by salivary amylase, heat and pancreatic juices in stomach. Its actually impossible to even digest this hormone. its simply excreted and has no effect what so ever.

            Do a little research folks. peptide/protein hormones CANNOT have effect on human body.

            Read Sheerwood physiology text when you get a chance.

  13. Milk

    lul, such a troll website. What an institute, with one person writing every article, telling us that milk is bad for us. Here is a little bit of info from a reliable source on this topic. https://www.webmd.com/diet/healthy-kitchen-11/dairy-truths

    • Dr. Tickle Toes

      WOW. WebMD? You might as well have posted a Yahoo answers source…

    • Web MD. You are part of the problem.

      Web MD? Are you serious? Do some credible research darling

    • Martina

      I just laughed out loud seeing that you posted your “reliable source” as Web MD! LOL

      • Gami

        Please offer more reliable sources yourself. There are far worse sources than web md – please – buy a clue

  14. Allan

    IMO our bodies have unique ways of functioning. From, intolerances, allergies, to hormonal deficiencies. I’m not lactose intolerant and never had any apparent problems whatsoever from drinking milk. I’m 23 years old and been takin milk in all forms every day for the best part of my life. Recently switched from 500 ml to 1000 ml (yes! 1 litre) a day. Still no problems. I say we’re all different with unique imbalances in our bodies. And maybe milk is just what my body needs to stay healthy. Every man with his own poison. What works for you may not work me and vice-versa. Only listen to your body. And if it doesn’t like it, you probably don’t need it.

  15. Jane

    Due to my moderate acne on my face the doctor suggested me to try dairy free diet, to see if anything changes.
    I’m now avoiding dairy by all means and read ingredients while doing grocery to see any hidden dairy. I have noticed “lactic acid” and was curious if I should avoid products with it in them. Does lactic acid contain any cow growth hormones that could affect my skin? Thanks

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      Hi Jane,

      Lactic acid is not derived from cow’s milk; it is produced by certain bacteria during the fermentation process. According to the Vegetarian Resources Group (https://www.vrg.org/nutshell/faqingredients.htm), lactic acid is actually a vegan ingredient. So lactic acid would not contain growth hormones found in dairy. 🙂

  16. Arggg

    About 20 years ago, I realized that cow’s milk was making me sick. Constant ear and sinus infections, dizziness, fatigue, etc. Doctors gave me antibiotics that worked for 2 days and then stopped working. On a whim, I stopped drinking milk and POOF!! No more sinus or ear infections, ever. I’m also more resistant to colds and flu. I never drank it again.

    I was concerned about my bone health, since I’m a light-boned white woman, but I didn’t really do anything about it. But a bone test at roughly age 37 showed 15% bone loss, and another test at roughly age 50 showed only 5% bone loss, otherwise known as “normal”. What???? I GAINED bone density, just from giving up milk??? I don’t exercise or eat lots of vegetables and nuts, by the way.

    My question is, why do people still insist on drinking milk, giving it to their kids, and asking me how I “get my calcium”? If I tell them that drinking processed milk actually makes you LOSE calcium, they treat me like a moron/heretic/interfering @#$#.

    NOBODY needs to drink milk. The rice, almond, and soy stuff is to replace cow’s milk because we’re so used to eating cereal. But we really don’t need that stuff, either.

    • Elizabeth

      That is your opinion. Lots of people benefit from milk. Don’t tell others what to eat or drink and stop parenting other people’s kids.

  17. Ty

    I like your article it really gives a lot of details

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      I’m glad you enjoyed reading it, Ty. 🙂

  18. Amelia

    why would that happen why that’s a stupid idea it’s not going to happen trust me I haven’t drank milk since a year and nothing happened to me so haha

  19. Debojyoti

    Jean, I’m totally in aemgerent about how important it is for people to know an artist’s work. I guess it’s just that I’m intrigued by those who somehow don’t need it. It’s a rare breed.I guess there are also those cases where an artist may truly care less but the world discovers them regardless.

    • jola

      what the fuck are you talking about

  20. adrienne

    I do believe everything you say because I use silk almond milk (it is not real milk, it is milk made from almond and chessecloth). I am vegan but I agree with your descriptions. Not many ppl believe stopping milk benefit health. They act as if milk is only way to bones

  21. Adil

    If water is added to milk, then this milk still have acidifying effects on our body..???

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      That would certainly dilute the milk, Adil, and therefore decrease the amount of milk you ingest. If you use distilled water, that’s even better. But adding water doesn’t change the milk into something harmless. 🙂

    • Marilyn

      A body needs proper balance and does this naturally with properly balanced diet and wholesome lifestyle and no interference from medications (prescriptions and OTT).

      Stomach needs acid for digestion.

      Commercially processed milk is not healthy. Raw milk from A2 cows raised in natural environment grazing grass without chemicals is really cow milk.

      “Dairy Products

      Note: Some refute the fact that dairy products can be alkalizing. This is because they contain lactic acid, which is a weak acid. While it is considered weak, it does contribute to a low oxygen environment and fatigue. The lactic acid in dairy products is produced by bacteria that feed on the sugar (lactose) in it. However, milk contains large amounts of alkaline minerals including calcium, magnesium, and potassium. It also contains phosphorous, which is necessary for calcium utilization. When one of these alkaline minerals, like calcium for example, binds with lactic acid, a neutral salt called calcium lactate is produced. Thus, while milk contains lactic acid, it also contains the minerals required to buffer it… and then some. The fresher the product is, the less amount of lactic acid it will contain, and the more alkalizing it will be.
      Alkalizing Slightly Acidifying Acidifying
      acidophilus milk brie aged brie
      banana smoothie drained cheese aged buttermilk
      fresh butter fresh yogurt aged cheeses
      fresh buttermilk fruit smoothie aged whey
      fresh cheese pasteurized milk aged yogurt
      fresh whey provolone chocolate milk
      raw whole milk slightly aged whey cooked butter
      swiss cream
      yogurt drinks (sugar free) dextrogyre yogurt
      kefir
      parmesan cheese
      sweetened yogurt with fruit
      ultra pasteruized milk

      https://www.livingwaterhealthsolutions.com/Articles/alkalize-chart.php

      • Marilyn

        sorry. the columns didn’t line up right in my comment above. see the columns and more info at the link added above. As usual ~ devil is in the details.

  22. Steven

    Sure, milk can be bad for people, but so are a million other things. No one is going to live forever and everyone has at least one problem in their senior years. I just don’t think this should be given so much attention. There are much more harmful things we cosume which acidify our blood, affect hormone levels, etc…Everything we consume or come into contact with has possible detrimental effects. It’s not as though people drinking gallons upon gallons of milk everyday. Basic knowledge of Anatomy and Physiology will lead people to realize that everyone is best with their own custom, well-rounded diet.

    • Arggg

      That’s easy to say if you don’t have bone loss, chronic sinus problems, asthma, or heart disease (to mention a few milk-related illnesses). This is something to be taken very seriously. It’s a pervasive myth that everybody needs milk, and it’s false.

      • jola

        YEAH ME TOO I HAVE A REAL ILLNESS AND YOURE OPPRESSING ME

    • Louise

      I am giving up milk for the animal welfare issue, and sure me on my own will not change anything, but me and others can.
      We all know we wont live forever….but we can be kinder and more compassionate along the way.

  23. Marian ross

    I have oestroprosis and I have switched to drinking goats milk a couple of glasses a day is this ok to build up bones or is this detrimental to bone health. I read in the Internet it was better for bones.

    • Angela

      Hi Marian. I use Sheeps Yoghurt and I wonder if this is safe. I hope Vivian answers these questions

  24. Leda Guevara

    Hi, Vivian! I have osteoporosis also the Dr, diagnosed fibro myalgia, and I have to much pain on my all body, my question is which one hurt in more, or from were I have to much pain, please can you talk about fibromigia.
    thanks you for all your help.

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      Stay tuned, Leda – my next post will address fibromyalgia. 🙂

  25. mary

    I would like to know about having rice milk on my rolled oats for breakfast each day
    I thought I was doing the right thing

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      Hi Mary,
      Having rice milk on your oats is certainly not wrong. 🙂 It just happens that both oats and rice milk are acidifying, so you can add some alkalizing fruit on the side if you like, or eat an alkalizing snack later in the morning. It’s not about some foods being right or wrong; it’s all about balance!

  26. karen

    I only just started the save our bones program I checked my PH levels and they’re perfectly normal so does this put me in a different category? How can I check for metabolic and hormone imbalances? Should I be one of the few to take drug therapy? I had a full hysterectomy w/ overies removed. 10 years ago. I have severe osteo. I don’t want drug therapy.

  27. Terrell Wexler

    Do you remove comments? I had posted one concerning carrageenan in dairy milk alternatives but I don’t see it. Rachel’s is shown but mine isn’t.

  28. shula

    Thanks!

  29. Marcia Forster

    In July I discovered I had osteoporosis in my spine. My GP suggested Prolia. a specialist said Aclasta, but I cancelled after reading about the side effects. I began taking Whey powder but stopped after finding your Save Your Bones Program. The Whey powder I now take cost $63.00 compared to $7.85 for 1 kilo! It is organic grass fed Whey Protein Isolate from NZ & made in Aus. with nothing artificial, no added sugar, gluten, fructose, fillers, preservatives, GMO, & low lactose 0.97 with sodium 39.mg for 30 grams. I take 30g 3X a day. Is this too much as I still eat fish,& poultry? Initially I lost 5 kilos after going vegetarian, but need to put weight on! I have been tall & slim all my life. Any suggestions & hope the Whey powder is okay. Thank you so much for all the emails. Kind Regards, Marcia

    • jola

      cool

  30. Dee

    Hi Vivian and Readers, I’m sure Vivian that you make your own Almond Milk. I need to stop being lazy and to also make my own. The current issue of Nutrition Action tells us that Blue Diamond Almond B reeze is mostly suger and water with 4 almonds per cup.

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      It’s really not hard to make your own, Dee! It’s been done since the Middle Ages, and that was before anyone had blenders! 😉

  31. Marlene Villar

    Good morning Vivian,
    What a blessing you are Vivian! How can I thank you
    for sharing continuously different topics that provides
    us with knowledge based on scientific researched.
    Being new to your program, I saw and find that your
    approach to reversing bone loss is from head to toe.
    I truly appreciate this method, because in my own
    understanding it involves my whole being ( my heart,
    mind, and etc.) Your SAVEOURBONES program
    brings great encouragement to me personally.
    Thank you so much Vivian. May GOD bless you and your family. Have a wonderful day and take care
    always. Marlene

  32. Junko Angel

    I am a faithful reader and follower of your wonderful SAVEOURBONES information for many years. However, there is one thing that’s been puzzling me. Why do you continue to recommend “distilled water” so highly, while distilled water contains no minerals that are essential to our general health? Recently I’ve switched to “purified water with added minerals.” Is it still good and safe for us with a touch of osteopenia? I do exercise regularly and very active. I’ve tumbled a few times, but no broken bones so far. I am 70 years old.

  33. Judy

    Here is my comment regarding alternatives to drinking cow’s milk:
    My son tried your suggestion about drinking almond milk. Wow! He suffered constipation big time! When realizing the condition was caused from drinking almond milk, he ceased drinking it. His problem was solved immediately and no more constipation.

    • Shirley C

      My comments about judy’sote. I only use Almond milk ooon cereal at breakfast time. Sometimes drink some when I need more alkalizing food. I also started using half doses of TRUEOSTEO Another thing that helps is 0ne 0r tw0 graham cracckers or a small glass of prune juice. , But watch the su

      • jola

        do you realize that prune juice literally can’t exist. Prunes are literally just DRIED plums. So…………..

  34. Nancy

    Due to a chronic lung infection that I have (mycobacterium chelonea), I will be starting an antibiotic therapy (3 kinds) for many months. Do you think it would benefit me to do the OsteoCleanse while being treated? I am seeing a specialist at NIH who will be monitoring this therapy. Any input you can give me would be helpful. Thank you.

  35. Bev

    Hi Vivian. I had to stop eating yogurt for awhile because it was causing acid reflux and G.I. inflammation. I was eating quite a lot of it. Switched to goat’s milk and am adding goat whey to try to alkalize it.
    It does not hurt my stomach and I feel it is healing.
    What do you think?

  36. JOYCE

    I choose to believe Dr. Mercola about the advantages of raw organic milk.
    I cut my milk intake 70% a while ago because I seem to need some dairy–I don’t feel good without any dairy. So a modest amount of raw milk makes my body healthy.
    Sometime I’ll try going without milk again and see how I feel’

  37. Helena Kalivoda

    I have an access to raw, unpasterized, grass fed organic cows milk that I do not drink but only use to make milk kefir from.
    Please comment on having milk kefir made from raw, unpasterized, organic, etc. cows milk.
    Thank you. H. K.

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      Hi Helena,
      Because it’s a fermented dairy product, kefir is alkalizing and good for bones and digestion! However, as with plain yogurt and other fermented dairy products, I do not recommend large amounts of these foods.

      • Thom Osborn

        I am confused about the status of raw organic goat’s milk yoghurt. I like it very much and have it every morning for breakfast with spelt (mainly) porridge plus sometimes almond, sometimes rice milk (I am aware of the acid tendency in rice, but try to balance it with various alkalising foods). But you say you do not recommend large amounts of fermented dairy products. Please explain why not? And from what I have said, am I eating ‘too much’? Or does it sound OK? One other question: what is the function of ‘cancel reply’? – what does it mean? To add: I greatly enjoy your information and the way you put things – just sometimes (as in this ‘comment’) I don’t 100% understand! But thank you – Thom

  38. Edna

    Great information!!!! Thank’s- I have a question and hopefully you can reply. I live in Paraguay, South America. I would like to know if rice milk is good to drink. I don’t drink cow milk. How about goat milk? is it better to drink goat milk. I will be looking out for your answer.

    Thank’s Vivian

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      Hi Edna,
      Milk is still an acidifying animal protein with baby goat-specific nutrients and hormones. So I do not recommend it. 🙂 Rice milk is acidifying, so if you’re following the 80/20 diet as described in the Osteoporosis Reversal Program, you’ll want to take that into account when you plan your meals and snacks.

      • josh

        this is a joke…..what bad advice. I can tell you from personal experience and failing almost all of the allergies on the Schick test and having many diseases that goats milk is an unbelievable cure.

        • Sandra Bush

          Josh, total voice of reason. I’m a Naturist Nutritionist, Raw milk cures allergies and asthma. All this other babble about rice and soy milk is such bad advice because it is all GMO’s which is totally toxic.
          People raw milk is very good for us. Benefits skin, bones, colon and on and on. Further, only a badly misinformed person would recommend soy products as all have round up on them. All low information readers, have a nice life what is left of it- I’m drinking raw milk.

  39. Marianne

    Thank you Vivian for this fabulous article! I have been on a crusade against milk for several years, so I will add your article to my arsenal. Unfortunately, there are still way too many people out there who buy into the “myth of milk” and will not change.

    I strongly recommend Dr. Jane Plant’s book, The No-Dairy Breast Cancer Prevention Program and the DVD “Got (the facts on) Milk” and remember that milk is what makes baby calves go from 0 to 600 pounds in 6 months.

    • Sandra Bush

      0 to 600 pounds. That would be because they are cows and we are humans. However, one important issue you are not considering: Genetically we are predisposed for over a millennia to drinking and needing raw milk as it has become part of our own DNA no matter where on the earth you are living.
      Humans have been protecting and caring for cows and goats for since prehistory and we actually continue to need this raw milk source and not the processed form as we cannot use this new dead liquid and it causes gastric problems, skin conditions. The problem is that rGBH can still be in raw milk cattle and make us gain unwanted weight. Also feeding milk producing animals soy products can also cause breast cancer in the humans who drink the milk. Have a nice life etc.

    • jola

      MILK IS MADE SO BABIES CAN GROW TO ADULT SIZE. IT HAS ALL 20 AMINO ACIDS THAT ARE ESSENTIAL FOR GROWTH. SO THE COMMENT ABOUT CALVES GOING FROM 0-600 POUNDS IS NATURAL AND SHOULD HAPPEN.

  40. Irina

    Vivian, there is some confusion in my mind. You advocate to take a calcium supplement derived from algae, which I do. But almond milk also has calcium, However, the calcium in Almond Milk is calcium carbonate which is derived from rock. In addition Almond Milk provides 45% of the daily requirement for calcium in one glass of Almond Milk.
    So here is the dilemma. If I take an algae calcium supplement and then drink Almond Milk would I not get too much calcium. And how to you justify ingesting calcium carbonate instead of the recommended algae calcium?
    Thanks in advance for your reply.

    • EsterH

      Irina,

      The Pacific (Pacific Foods of Oregon) produces a delicious Almond milk that has NO calcium carbonate in it. Look for it where the vacuum-packed soups and milks are at your grocery store or health food store. You can select sweetened, unsweetened, flavored, etc. If your favorite store does not have it, ask if they would consider carrying it.

      • Irina

        Ester,

        outstanding information. Thank you very much. I will look for it on my next shopping trip.

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      Irina, your body is able to process small amounts of calcium carbonate such as are found in commercial almond milk. But as I mentioned to Rachel below, you can certainly make your own almond milk to avoid any ingredients you are not comfortable with. 🙂

      • Mary

        Vivian

        I read that Almonds contains an unbalanced amount of Omega 6 compared with Omega 3. Apparently 2000 to 1.

        I used to make my own almond milk and use it every day in a smoothie. I have now changed to macadamia milk.

        The trouble is I think macadamia milk is acid whereas almond milk is alkaline.

        Can you comment on this please?

  41. Rachel

    Thank you Vivian for another informative email. I actually stopped drinking cow’s milk after learning through the Osteoporosis Reversal Program that milk is acidifying and therefore not conducive to building healthy bones. I later switched to drinking unsweetened almond milk. Then I found out about the harmful effects of carrageenan, an ingredient in almond milk which is used as a binder or thickening agent. Carrageenan comes from red algae and is considered to be organic, however there have been scientific studies linking carrageenan to intestinal damage and even cancer. As a result , I no longer include almond milk in my diet.
    Vivian I would really appreciate your opinion on carrageenan in almond milk.

    Vivian,

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      Rachel, if you’re concerned about additives in almond milk, feel free to make your own! It only requires almonds, a blender, and pure water. I recommend doing an internet search for specific directions. 🙂

  42. Vee

    How can I Lowe my Calcitriol (1,25 di -OH Vit D)

  43. Pat

    I understand that sugar hinders the calcium absorption process in your bones and I stay away from that as much as I can – but what about honey?

    • Lyda Kraekel

      I read an ad praising a special extra healing jar of Manuca honey. It contained many enzymes and healing qualities in it, that works on the inside and or the outside of the body, I feel less pain since I’ve been taking a spoonful spread out through the day. I’ve had issues with my intestines for years. Will too much honey make my body too acidic? Is it safe to use it for any other food to make it more pleasant to eat?

  44. Sima Adar

    What about whey protein that is hormone free, antibiotic free and
    pesticide free and grass fed?

    • jola

      I bought my own cow last year and made sure not to feed him any antibiotics – thankfully he only lived 11 days so he didn’t have the chance to hurt anyone

  45. Karuna Joshi

    How about drinking organic milk? Is it stil harmful?

  46. Luc

    This is at odd with Dr. Mercola about raw grass fed milk. I always loved milk and do not drink main stream milk, but organic pasteurized goat milk and on occasion raw grass fed milk from Jersey cows. I have been able to increase bone density by 8% in the first year after breaking a bone and finding I had severe osteoporosis.

  47. Louise Habbitts

    In your article about the dangers of drinking cow ‘s milk, you pointed out that nut milks such as almond, cashew
    and hazelnut are a good alternative, but you did not mention that apart from almonds, all other nuts are acidic. This is a very important point to remember about nuts!

    • EsterH

      I would say that, if one is consuming cow or goat milk every day, it would be beneficial to balance it with lots of alkaline foods along with it or shortly after. The same goes with all those nuts we enjoy–have them with alkalizing food (fruits or vegetables).

      I recommend cutting back on dairy, period.

    • Betty

      ….as well as high in oxalates that create risk of kidney stones. Seems dangers lurk everywhere in the food chain these days. Sometimes knowing too much can starve us to death. I have been struggling with the ratio of acid/alkaline because of my low weight but if i have treats or eats that are more on the acidic side I feel more aches and pains. Feel bewildered sometimes.

      • Betty

        By the way I forgot to say that I do avoid all dairy because of the congestion factor

  48. connie

    Thanks for all af the reminders and specifics. What about organic soy milk? I have read the pros and cons on the pesticides and estrogens, but what about 8 oz. a day?

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      Hi Connie,
      I recommend nut milks over soy milk, because soy is often genetically modified.

  49. Cindy A.

    This is very interesting. Is raw milk acidifying or alkalyzing? I thought I read somewhere that while pasteurized milk is acidifying, raw milk is alkalyzing. Please clarify. Thank you.

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      Hi Cindy,
      Raw milk is slightly less acidifying than pasteurized, homogenized milk. 🙂

  50. Caz

    How about organic goat’s milk – obviously its intended for baby goats but is it as bad as cows milk? Thanks for letting us know about this. By the way, sadly cost of shipping your supplements is too expensive for me in UK but I do have your book!

  51. snapdragon18

    Wow!
    Thanks for that Vivian. I’ve avoided milk for a long time but now know all the reasons why. This difinitive guide is one I’m going to save as I haven’t found such detailed information gathered in any single report before. It’s also important for anyone dealing with bone loss as a result of breast cancer treatment – and indeed any cancer with regard to growth factors.
    You don’t hold back on the scientific detail which is what most people want especially in view of all the derivative reports out there giving out little more than ‘pop’ science. I look forward to your emails and view them as essential reading. Cheers, Suzi. (UK)

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      That’s great, Suzi – keep researching and learning! The more you delve into a topic, the more you begin to see consistencies and the truth emerges… 🙂

  52. veronica

    I have come of milk now for a month and have changed to rice milk and feel much better.

  53. Luke

    Would you, please, use some scientific and evidence-based argument instead of personnal thinking ?

    • Marie Feeley

      How can I unsubscribe?

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