Tag: Milk debate

Approximately 65% of the global adult population has some form of lactose intolerance, which can cause digestive issues after consuming milk. Given this and evolving production practices, the question arises for many: Is modern milk good for you? The answer is more complex than it appears, involving a balance of nutritional benefits, modern processing, and personal health factors.

Genetic studies show that the ability to digest milk sugar (lactose) into adulthood, known as lactase persistence, evolved independently in several human populations within the last 10,000 years. This has fueled a long-standing debate: are humans not supposed to eat dairy, or is it a dietary norm for some and an issue for others?

According to a 2018 study by the University of Oxford, producing a single glass of dairy milk creates almost three times more greenhouse gas emissions than any plant-based milk alternative. However, when it comes to personal nutrition, the environmental footprint is only one part of the story. The truth about which milk is 'healthier' is nuanced, and depends heavily on individual needs, goals, and dietary considerations.

While dairy milk is a widely consumed and nutrient-dense beverage, approximately 68% of the world's population cannot properly digest it due to lactose intolerance. This startling statistic highlights a key truth at the heart of the modern milk debate: its healthfulness is not universal but depends on individual genetics, health conditions, and dietary choices.

An estimated 65% of the global adult population has a reduced ability to digest lactose, the sugar found in milk. This biological reality sits at the heart of the modern debate over adult dairy consumption, forcing many to question: **Is milk meant for adults?** This article unpacks the science and conflicting views to help you make an informed decision for your personal **nutrition diet**.