We’ve taken a look at the difference between milk most people buy at the grocery store and raw milk. Raw milk is a whole unadulterated food source that provides countless health benefits to those who drink it.
Raw milk is really sunshine in a glass. These special cows eat grass infused with vitamins A and D from the sun and rich soil, then produce milk rich in nutrients that are left intact because the milk is not pasteurized or homogenized. Escaping these processes gives raw milk an advantage over the supermarket variety. All the naturally occurring proteins, enzymes, vitamins and minerals remain alive and vital. Remember, proteins and fats are the building blocks of life, increasing absorption of vitamins and minerals and boosting our immune systems.
Even lactose-intolerant people may be able to drink milk, if it’s raw. Lactose is the sugar found in milk. In raw milk, lactase, the enzyme that breaks down lactose, is still present to assist in digestion even while your body may be lacking in lactase. In other words, raw milk comes with its own enzymes to assist in the digestion of the protein and fats it contains. So your body receives the nutrition it needs with less work.
While we are told that fat is bad, there is mounting evidence that fats have an important place in our diets. Raw milk is very high in CLA (conjugated linoleic acid), an omega fatty acid with strong anticancer properties. There is an abundance of vitamins A, D and C that assist in the absorption of calcium and other minerals. The butterfat in raw milk is also rich in short-and medium-chain fatty acids, which protects against disease and stimulates the immune system.
Raw milk still has a full complement of good bacteria, including Lactobacillus. This bacteria turns lactose into lactic acid. Who wants sour milk? Everyone’s heard of the benefits of yogurt and kifer, well both these products begin with sour milk. So, no need to throw out your soured milk just add it to your favorite smoothie or recipe.
To summarize, raw milk with all its nutritious benefits, may just be one of nature’s perfect foods. Have you had your glass of sunshine today?
In Santa Clarita, you can buy raw milk at Whole Foods from Organic Pastures and Claravale Farms.
If you are, done talking about creating better health, tired of thinking about what to do next, ready to make positive changes and live a more vibrant life, then make that investment in yourself because Women’s Health Advantage is ready to help.
Contact Jill Redfern RN, digestive health specialist at 661-310-7373 or www.womenshealthadvantage@msn.com.