5 Surprising Ways Raw Milk Affects Your Heart and Brain Health

Raw Milk side effects: Read on to know how drinking raw milk can affect your heart and brain

Raw Milk Side Effects: While milk is known for its many health benefits, consuming it in its raw form poses potential health risks. Yes, you read that right! Recently, a Kerala-borne hepatologist highlighted the serious infections that may be caused by the consumption of raw milk. Taking to social media, the doctor shared a post stating that raw milk can contain dangerous bacteria such as E. coli, Campylobacter, Yersinia, Brucella, Coxiella and Listeria. The doctor also stated that "Pasteurization was discovered for a reason", and claimed that these bacteria can lead to several fatal diseases that can attack the "brain and heart, cause seizures and even death".

In this article, we examine the top 7 serious risks that come with consuming raw milk, addressing why it can be harmful and how to make healthier dairy choices.

Drinking Raw Milk? Health Risks That Could Change Your Mind!

Here are the top 5 side effects of drinking raw milk that shouldn't be ignored at any cost:

Bacterial Contamination

One of the primary dangers of drinking raw milk is bacterial contamination. Unpasteurized milk can be a breeding ground for harmful bacteria such as Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria. These pathogens can lead to severe foodborne illnesses that might require hospitalization or could even be fatal. Without the pasteurization process, these bacteria can flourish, posing a serious health threat to those who consume it.

May Lead To High Cholesterol

One major concern regarding raw milk is its high levels of saturated fats. These fats are known to raise cholesterol levels, which can lead to heart disease. Consistently eating high-saturated fat foods can cause plaque to accumulate in your arteries, raising the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Individuals with existing heart issues or those prone to such problems should be especially careful about including raw milk in their diets.

Gastrointestinal Issues

Drinking raw milk can lead to several gastrointestinal problems. You might experience symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal cramps. These issues often arise from the harmful bacteria found in unpasteurized milk. Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as young children and older adults, are especially vulnerable to these adverse effects.

Apart from gastrointestinal issues, consuming raw milk can increase the risk of serious infections. Diseases like brucellosis, tuberculosis, and Q fever can all be transmitted through unpasteurized milk. These infections can lead to long-lasting health issues, including chronic illness and potentially lifelong disabilities.

Allergic Reactions

Some people may suffer from allergic reactions to raw milk. The proteins found in unprocessed dairy can provoke allergies in certain individuals, resulting in symptoms like hives, swelling, and breathing difficulties. For anyone with known dairy allergies, consuming raw milk can be particularly risky and should be completely avoided.

Nutritional Imbalance

While advocates of raw milk claim it is more nutritious than pasteurized options, this argument can be misleading. Raw milk may carry harmful bacteria that negatively impact overall health and nutrition. The risk of foodborne illnesses may overshadow any alleged nutritional advantages. It's crucial to weigh whether drinking raw milk really is worth the potential risks.

Other Long-Term Health Consequences

The long-term health effects of drinking raw milk are still under investigation. However, the possibility of chronic illnesses caused by foodborne pathogens is concerning. Regular consumers of raw milk may find themselves at an increased risk for developing health issues down the line, including autoimmune disorders and other persistent conditions.

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