Tag: Insulin like growth factor 1

According to the FDA, consuming milk and meat from cows treated with recombinant bovine growth hormone (rBGH) is safe because the large protein is broken down in the human digestive tract and has no biological effect. However, this topic remains a source of public concern due to questions surrounding potential impacts on human health, specifically related to increased levels of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1).

Studies have shown that raw milk naturally contains insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), a hormone that is structurally identical in humans and bovines. The level of IGF-1 in milk, including raw milk, can be influenced by various factors, leading to fluctuating concentrations.

According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), artificial hormones are not added directly into milk during processing. However, some conventional dairy cows are treated with a synthetic hormone called recombinant bovine somatotropin (rBST), which can lead to higher levels of certain natural hormones in their milk. This has led to consumer interest and confusion about whether milk sold in the grocery store contains added hormones, and what it means for your health.

Studies have shown an association between the consumption of some dairy products, particularly low-fat and skim milk, and a higher risk of acne. The question, **can dairy mess with your hormones?**, is a complex one, with researchers exploring several potential mechanisms by which components of milk may influence human endocrine function.