Milk is often celebrated as a symbol of health, but does its consumption always align with well-being? A recent Swedish study published in BMC Medicine explored the relationship between fermented and non-fermented milk consumption and the risk of ischemic heart disease (IHD) and acute myocardial infarction (AMI).
Key Findings of the Study
This longitudinal study followed 100,775 participants (59,998 women and 40,777 men) without a history of IHD or cancer at baseline for up to 33 years. During the follow-up, 17,896 cases of IHD, including 10,714 heart attacks, were documented. The findings revealed significant differences between fermented and non-fermented milk:
- Non-Fermented Milk:
- Women consuming more than 1.5 glasses daily showed a progressively higher risk of IHD and AMI.
- For example, women drinking 4 glasses daily had a 21% higher risk of IHD compared to those consuming only 0.5 glasses per day.
- This trend was consistent across whole, medium-fat, and low-fat milk varieties.
- In men, no similar increase in risk was observed.
- Fermented Milk (e.g., yogurt and kefir):
- No association was found between fermented milk consumption and the risk of IHD or AMI in either sex.
Biological Basis of Milk and Heart Health
Among women consuming high amounts of non-fermented milk, changes in plasma proteins linked to cardiometabolic processes were observed:
- ACE2 (angiotensin-converting enzyme 2): Elevated levels of this protein were associated with milk intake and may contribute to the increased risk.
- FGF21 (fibroblast growth factor 21): Lower levels of this protein suggest reduced metabolic flexibility.
What Does This Mean for Daily Life?
The findings suggest that milk consumption should be moderated, especially in women who drink large quantities of non-fermented milk. Fermented dairy products, such as yogurt, remain a safe option and show no connection to increased heart risks.
Conclusion
While milk offers numerous health benefits, this study highlights the importance of moderation and choosing the right type of dairy. If you're a milk enthusiast, consider incorporating fermented options, which may be a better ally for your heart health.
What’s your take on how dairy products affect health?
