Is raw milk safe?
While raw milk is experiencing a revival and rising in popularity, it remains somewhat of a taboo in today’s health culture. This powerful, nutrient-rich hormone superfood is defiantly worth looking in to. Here’s a breakdown of why raw milk might be the hormone-boosting addition you didn’t know you needed and a few key reasons to consider it as part of your journey to pain free bleeds and awakened fertility.
Why Raw Milk Stands Out
Conventional milk, commonly found in our super markets is pasteurised. Heated to high temperatures to kill any bacteria. While this process certainly makes it shelf-stable, it also strips milk of many of its natural nutrients, enzymes, and probiotics. In contrast, raw milk retains all of these beneficial components because it’s unprocessed. Raw milk provides a spectrum of vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and probiotics that support health on multiple levels, including hormone balance.
Key Nutrients in Raw Milk for Hormone Health
One of the most compelling reasons to consider raw milk is its unique nutrient profile, which provides many of the building blocks necessary for hormone production and regulation.
1. B and C Vitamins – The Foundation of Hormone Production
Raw milk contains a full range of B vitamins (including B12) and vitamin C. These nutrients are critical for hormone production, energy metabolism, and overall mental well-being. B vitamins are involved in the synthesis of hormones like oestrogen and testosterone, while vitamin C plays a role in adrenal health, helping to support cortisol production and balance.
2. Vitamin A and Vitamin D – The Essential Fat-Soluble Vitamins
Raw milk is also high in vitamins A and D, two fat-soluble vitamins crucial for hormone function. Vitamin A plays a role in reproductive health and skin maintenance, while vitamin D supports bone health, immune function, and hormonal balance. It’s important to note that these vitamins are best absorbed with fats, which is why whole milk (containing natural good quality fats) is more beneficial than semi or skimmed milk. There’s a reason it’s called “whole” milk!
3. Probiotics and Enzymes – Supporting Gut and Immune Health
Raw milk is rich in probiotics and enzymes, making it a great choice for boosting gut health and immune resilience. Probiotics support a balanced microbiome, which is crucial for digestive health, mood regulation, and hormone production. Enzymes in raw milk also help with digestion and nutrient absorption, reducing common issues like bloating and gas that many people associate with dairy.
4. Proteins and Healthy Fats – The Building Blocks of Hormones
Raw milk contains high-quality proteins and essential fatty acids, both of which are foundational for hormone production. Proteins provide amino acids, which are critical for neurotransmitter and hormone synthesis. Meanwhile, healthy fats (including omega-3 fatty acids) found in raw milk support cell membranes and aid in the production of hormones like oestrogen and progesterone.
Why Processed Milk Can Cause Issues
While raw milk offers a range of nutrients, conventional milk often comes with drawbacks that can lead to health issues. Here are some common problems associated with pasteurised milk:
Nutrient Loss from Pasteurisation
The process of heating milk to high temperatures kills off beneficial bacteria, enzymes, and nutrients. As a result, many vitamins and minerals in pasteurised milk are either lessened or removed entirely, and the calcium becomes insoluble, making it harder for our bodies to absorb. This can contribute to sensitivities, hormone imbalances, and even nutrient deficiencies over time.
High-Stress Farming
Another key issue with conventional milk is the way dairy cows are raised. Cows in industrialised settings are often kept in confined, high-stress conditions, fed grain-based diets that their digestive systems aren’t naturally designed to process, and given high doses of antibiotics. All of this stress, along with the added hormones, can ultimately affect the milk they produce. When we consume conventional milk, we’re indirectly consuming the stress hormones and residues of antibiotics, which can add to the toxic load in our bodies and increasing allergies, inflammation and hormone imbalances.
Why Our Grandparents Could Drink Milk with Ease
It’s no coincidence that dairy allergies have risen dramatically in recent years. In previous generations, milk was often consumed fresh from local farms, minimally processed and unpasteurised. Cows were usually grass-fed, which increased the quality of their milk, and antibiotics and hormones were rarely (if ever) used. In contrast, today’s processed milk often leads to issues like gut inflammation, skin problems, and headaches, which were not nearly as common in earlier generations.
Is Raw Milk Right for You?
For me raw milk comes from small farms who really care about their animals, they are grass fed and allowed to give a happy life and existence. So for me it’s very unlikely negative bacteria will be present. As with any dietary change, raw milk isn’t necessarily for everyone, and it’s essential to do your research and make an informed choice.
If you are completely new to raw milk https://www.westonaprice.org/#gsc.tab=0 is a great place to start learning all the real facts and false stories we have been told.
