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Why you Should Avoid Conventional Dairy

“About 90% of Americans do not get enough dairy.” Wait, what?

This shocking statistic comes straight from myplate.gov, the government-endorsed resource for healthy eating. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), we should eat more dairy, not less. The government sees dairy as an essential part of a healthy diet that Americans are “deficient” in. 

The site says,  “Eating or drinking dairy products offers health benefits, like building and maintaining strong bones. Dairy Group foods provide nutrients that are vital for the health and maintenance of the body.”

If this sounds a little fishy, you’ve got the right idea. Conventional dairy isn’t a health food. In fact, it is the opposite. Processed dairy products contain antibiotics, hormones, and digestive enzymes, that contribute to serious health problems. 

Though the government is still clinging to their precious dairy (low-fat, of course — which is a whole separate discussion), dairy consumption in the U.S has dropped significantly since the 80s.

Nowadays, milk substitutes are all the rage, with health-food bloggers and influencers chugging $8 oat milk lattes and eating vegan cheese. But are these substitutes any better? 

Let’s dig into the heart of the matter and some of the reasons you should avoid conventional dairy. We’ll also look at some of the most common dairy substitutes you should drink instead. 

What’s wrong with conventional dairy?

Despite the best efforts of milk-pushing campaigns such as “got milk?”, dairy hasn’t been able to shake its negative reputation. And for a good reason. Simply put, it isn’t good for you. Remember: never take your food advice from the government! Here are just a few of the many reasons you should avoid conventional dairy. 

Lactose intolerance

Lactose, sometimes called “milk sugar,” is found in human breast milk and cow’s milk. Infants and calves have digestive enzymes to break down this sugar, but as we age, they become ineffective. This is a clear sign from mother nature that we shouldn’t continue drinking milk into adulthood. 

According to research, approximately 65 percent of the population is lactose intolerant. Lactose intolerance causes digestive problems like bloating, diarrhea, gas, and an upset stomach and is just another reason to avoid conventional dairy.

Hormones galore

Cows milk, like human breast milk, contains naturally-occurring hormones that contribute to the growth and development of calves and infants, respectively. These hormones include estrogen and progesterone, which, while helpful for baby cows, can seriously damage the delicate hormonal balance in humans. 

Not only that, but cows are often pumped full of synthetic growth hormones to increase milk production. Though some farms are moving away from it, rBGH (Recombinant Bovine Growth Hormone) is injected into many cows. This genetically engineered hormone could potentially contribute to several health issues, including cancer. 

Cows in poor conditions are in a heightened state of stress and release stress hormones such as cortisol which make their way into their milk and your body. 

Antibiotics

Antibiotic overuse is a huge problem in the western world. And it doesn’t stop at your doctor prescribing a round of antibiotics every time you have the sniffles.

What we eat and drink could also contribute to the growing antibiotic crisis. 

Conventionally-raised animals, including dairy cows, are crammed into tight facilities with little-to-no fresh air or room to graze. They are overmilked and poorly treated, leading to udder infections and other illnesses that are treated with antibiotics. Residue from these antibiotics makes its way into the milk and into your body, damaging your gut health and creating antibiotic-resistant bacteria. 

Pollution

We live in a polluted world, and megadairies aren’t helping. These massive factory farms produce high levels of methane, a greenhouse gas that pollutes the atmosphere and contributes to the global climate crisis.

What about calcium?

Contrary to popular belief, milk isn’t necessary for strong bones. Though the government asserts that you must eat and drink dairy products to prevent fractures, very little evidence supports these claims. According to a 12-year prospective study, it could increase your risk of fractured bones!

There are far better alternatives if you’re worried about getting enough calcium in your diet. These include salmon, almonds, dark green leafy vegetables, canned sardines (which also contain vitamin D), and chia seeds. When you eat a healthy, well-balanced diet, you don’t need milk to keep your calcium levels high. 

In fact, the real issue isn’t a calcium deficiency but a vitamin D deficiency. When you don’t have enough vitamin D in your body, it can’t absorb calcium properly. This is why vitamin D deficiency can lead to bone issues such as rickets. Get enough sunlight, eat a 100 Year Heart Diet, and your bones will stay strong and healthy.

What about organic milk?

Many people who avoid conventional dairy purchase organic milk instead. While this is undoubtedly a better option, as cows have access to pasture and aren’t pumped full of antibiotics and hormones, it is still pasteurized and poorly digested by humans.

Remember, just because it’s organic doesn’t mean it’s good for you! Everything you eat should be organic, but you shouldn’t eat something just because it’s organic. 

Drink raw milk instead (only occasionally)

If you miss the occasional splash of milk in your morning coffee or your yogurt parfait for dessert, stick to raw dairy and dairy products.

Raw milk is milk that hasn’t been pasteurized. Pasteurization is when milk is heated to kill potentially harmful pathogens and bacteria. Unfortunately, this process also kills off the good bacteria and digestive enzymes. Pasteurization also destroys vitamin C, manganese, copper, and iron.

Raw milk contains beneficial digestive enzymes and is often better tolerated by people who are lactose intolerant. A study of over 700 families conducted by the Weston A. Price Foundation found that 80 percent of people diagnosed with lactose intolerance experienced no symptoms after drinking raw milk. 

Raw milk from healthy, grass-fed cows contains higher levels of fat-soluble vitamins and other nutrients like CLA (conjugated linoleic acid), which can help support immune function and reduce body fat. 

Remember, even raw milk contains hormones that aren’t beneficial for the human body. If you drink raw milk, enjoy it in moderation. Focus on raw, fermented products such as kefir and yogurt. These support a vibrant gut microbiome and can improve gut health.

Isn’t raw milk dangerous? 

Keep in mind raw milk is illegal for human consumption in many U.S. states and can be contaminated with bacteria if not handled properly. Shop safely and get your milk from a trusted source. Or avoid milk altogether (the better option) and try these dairy-free milk alternatives!

Dairy-free milk alternatives

Dairy-free milk alternatives come from plants instead of animals. Most dairy-free milk options are healthier for you than traditional cow’s milk, especially if that cow was fed unnatural food, toxic water, and subjected to unhealthy living conditions.

Before examining the common dairy-free milk alternatives, a few things to remember:

  • We recommend you make dairy-free milk. Store-bought dairy-free milk usually contains preservatives, sweeteners, thickeners, and emulsifiers, all of which can harm your health. 
  • If you buy dairy-free milk, ensure it is in a quality container. Most store-bought products are housed in cheap wax, plastic, or paper that can add chemicals to the milk. Stick with glass containers only, even for the dairy-free milk you make at home. 
  • If you make nut milk, always use raw and organic ingredients. This prevents harmful chemicals and genetically-modified foods from entering your body. You may want to soak your nuts overnight to break down lectins and other anti-nutrients. 

Common dairy-free milk alternatives:

Almond Milk

  • Best uses – Nut cereal, blended drinks
  • Benefits – Low in calories, doesn’t raise blood sugar levels
  • Caution – Beware added sugars and additives in store-bought products

Soy Milk

  • Best uses – NEVER
  • Benefits – Outweighed by risk
  • Caution – Many commercial soy products are genetically modified and not organic. Soy contains many antinutrients which interfere with thyroid and other hormonal functions.

Coconut Milk

  • Best uses – Coffee, cooking
  • Benefits – Good saturated fat content, contains many vitamins and minerals
  • Caution – Many canned varieties contain chemicals that leach into the coconut milk. Choose coconut milk in a BPA-free can.

Walnut/Pecan Milk

  • Best uses – Coffee, cooking
  • Benefits – High in antioxidants and minerals
  • Caution – Slightly less creamy than other nut milks

Rice Milk

  • Best uses – Smoothies
  • Benefits – Full of calcium, nice choice for people who can’t digest nut milk
  • Caution – Contains very little protein

Oat Milk

  • Best uses – Coffee, baking, grain-free pancakes
  • Benefits – High in protein, low in fat
  • Caution – Beware products containing gluten

Hazelnut Milk

  • Best uses – Coffee, drinking
  • Benefits – Rich in Omega 3 fatty acid, low in calories
  • Caution – Store-bought versions often contain unhealthy additives

Cashew Milk

  • Best uses – Coffee, cooking, smoothies
  • Benefits – High in B and D vitamins, high in fatty acids
  • Caution – Low in protein, store-bought products often contain lots of added sugars, salt, and thickeners

Next steps

Dairy isn’t a healthy food and Americans certainly aren’t deficient in it. We are deficient in quality, minimally processed, organic food that supports heart health and overall well-being. Avoid conventional dairy at all costs and if you enjoy milk occasionally, always choose raw, grass-fed milk. 

There are so many great dairy-free options available that there’s no excuse to keep drinking conventional dairy. Find the one you like the best and make it yourself or buy it from a reputable company. 

Another option is to add our Daily Defense protein shake mix to water. The protein in Daily Defense is grass-fed whey protein from New Zealand cows. Whey protein has well-researched health and cardiovascular benefits. Most people tolerate whey quite well, especially with our blend’s added digestive enzymes and probiotics.

Daily Defense comes in two delicious flavors and contains vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients to keep you healthy and support your 100 Year Heart. 

Eat well, Live well, Think well

Medical Review: Dr. Lauren Lattanza 2022

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About Dr. Lauren Lattanza NMD, FACC

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Dr. Lauren Lattanza Fees

20 Minute Virtual Call: $250

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As a Naturopathic Physician, I am trained to treat the whole person and get to the root cause of disease.

I went to Arizona State University where I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in psychology with a depth in physiology and minor in Spanish. After my undergraduate degree I was working on prerequisite classes towards medical school, which is when I came to learn that my values identified best with the principles of naturopathic medicine. I knew that I wanted to help patients identify the causes of disease and be able to offer treatments which would improve their health rather than simply treating symptoms.

I dedicated the next 4 years to the Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine in Tempe, Arizona where I attained my Doctorate of Naturopathic Medicine. I served as Class President all 4 years, Board of Trustees – Student Trustee, spoke as the Club President for our branch of Toastmasters, and was voted by my peers and attending physicians to earn the Outstanding Leadership Award for the Class of 2020. Throughout medical school I took it upon myself to work alongside MDs, DOs, chiropractors, and functional medicine practitioners in addition to naturopathic physicians.

As a Spanish speaking student, I was able to volunteer with community clinics around Phoenix and provide free healthcare to low-income families. Due to this combined exposure, I came to find my passion in treating cardiometabolic and digestive disorders that are all too common, yet largely preventable. I took the opportunity to learn the broad spectrum of healthcare so I can ensure that I am able to provide my patients with the best options.

About Dr. Jack Wolfson DO, FACC

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Dr. Jack Wolfson Fees

30 Minute Virtual Call: $1500

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Dr. Jack Wolfson is a board-certified cardiologist, Amazon best-selling author, husband, father, and the nation’s #1 Natural Heart Doctor.

For more than two decades, more than one million people have enjoyed the warmth, compassion, and transformational power of his natural heart health courses and events.

Dr. Wolfson is the founder of Natural Heart Doctor Scottsdale, his heart health practice in Arizona, and Natural Heart Doctor, an online resource center with natural health information. Doctors from across the globe reach out to Dr. Wolfson for training and education in holistic health practices.

He has been named one of America’s Top Functional Medicine Doctors and is a five-time winner of the Natural Choice Awards as a holistic M.D. Dr. Wolfson’s work has been covered by more than 100 media outlets, including NBC, CNN, and the Washington Post. His book “The Paleo Cardiologist: The Natural Way to Heart Health” was an Amazon #1 best-seller.

Dr. Wolfson and his wife Heather have four children and are committed to making the world a better place to live. They provide for those in need (including animals) and support natural health causes through their philanthropic efforts.

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Frequently Asked Questions

I’d like to receive an online second opinion from Natural Heart Doctor. What do I do next?

You can initiate a second opinion online through our website at any time. To begin, select the team member you’d like to speak with and open an account.

Click here for cardiologist Dr. Jack Wolfson.

Naturopathic Medical Doctor Dr. Lauren Lattanza. Get details.

Naturopathic Medical Doctor Dr. Tonia Rainier. Get details.

Click here for  Natural Heart Doctor Health Coach.

Alternatively, you can email health@naturalheartdoctor.com. A member of our care team will help guide you through the process of starting a second opinion.

What is the cost of a Natural Heart Doctor Online Second Opinion?

The cost for most second opinions varies by team member. This fee includes information collection, a phone or video consultation, a second opinion from a Natural Heart Doctor specialist and guidance throughout the process from your personal Care Team at Natural Heart Doctor.

Cardiologist Dr. Jack Wolfson’s Second Opinion Fee is $1500.

Holistic Physician’s Dr. Lauren Lattanza’s Second Opinion Fee is $250.

Naturopathic Physician Dr. Tonia Rainier’s Second Opinion Fee is $250.

Note: We apply the Online Second Opinion Call fee as a credit to any future consultations with Natural Heart Doctor, should you choose them.

Will my insurance cover the cost of a Natural Heart Doctor Online Second Opinion?

Most likely, no. Most health plans do not cover online second opinions or consultations. You are responsible for the cost of our second opinion. Natural Heart Doctor cannot file a claim with your insurance carrier, nor can we provide a procedure (CPT) code for this service.

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We do our best to schedule your second opinion as quickly as possible. Typically, it takes 5 to 7 business days after your information has been collected to receive your phone or video online second opinion.

What information do you need in advance of our call?

Our office will send you a short questionnaire to complete and return. We DO NOT need your complete medical records.

How many questions can I ask the expert during our call?

You may ask a maximum of five questions. This is to ensure that the expert has sufficient time to devote to each question. All questions must be finalized before your online meeting.

What should I expect to receive once my second opinion is complete?

You will receive a summary of our discussion along with our second opinion. The second opinion will be in written form. After you have reviewed the second opinion, a Natural Heart Doctor clinician will follow up with you by phone to address general medical questions about the information provided in the second opinion.

What if I have follow-up questions for the expert after I have reviewed my second opinion?

If you have a clarifying question about an expert’s response to one of the questions in your second opinion, and the Natural Heart Doctor clinician is unable to address it, then you may request a follow up session for an additional fee. 

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Natural Heart Doctor is strongly committed to protecting the privacy and security of all our patients. Our website meets all federal requirements for protecting personal health information under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). All financial transactions are processed by Natural Heart Doctor securely using industry standard payment processing tools.

I would rather visit Natural Heart Doctor for an in-person appointment. What should I do next?

If you would prefer an in-person appointment at Natural Heart Doctor instead of an online second opinion, please call (480) 535-6844 for details and scheduling.

Can I schedule a follow up appointment with the specialist who provided my online second opinion?

Yes, we’re happy to help you on an extended basis. Our clinician can discuss options with you when presenting our second opinion summary.