Although there are health benefits associated with the consumption of a plant -based diet, a recent study says that milk consumption without dairy products can be risky for mental health.
Does this mean that vegans are more at risk of developing depression due to the alternatives of the milk they choose? The study would indicate yes – yet a doctor specializing in plant nutritions thinks that research has omissions.
The UK Biobank study was published in the journal Frontiers in Nutrition. He examined the incidence of anxiety and depression in a swimming pool of 350,000 participants who consumed different types of milk, both dairy and non -dairy milk.
The results of the study – which were about 13 years of follow -up with the participants – revealed that 13,065 people received a diagnosis of depression and 13,339 received an anxiety diagnosis.
Dr. Roxanne Becker, editor -in -chief based in Washington, DC and educator at the Doctors Committee for Responsible Medicine, told Fox News Digital that the study showed a risk of depression of 16% for those who consumed milk In full cream, 12% lower milk risks depression for semi -rassose milk drinkers – and an increased risk of depression in those who have drunk other types of milk.
“However, there were problems in the way they analyzed the data,” said Becker. (She was not affiliated with the study.)
“And if you dig there, you will see that the increased risk (presented) by plant -based milks was not really a real representation.”
When the study explained the total calorie intake, these risks completely disappeared, said Becker, adding that the authors themselves noted that it could have played a role.
In addition, almost all those who consumed “other milks” had a body mass index under 25, but the study did not distinguish between weight weight and normal weight, said Becker.
The subjects of the study could have included people suffering from food disorders who used plant -based milks as a means of controlling calories, as food disorders are linked to anxiety and depression , said Becker.
“This study does not show a conclusive manner that plants based on (consumption) plants increase the risk of depression or anxiety,” she said.
Fuel for the mind
“Regarding the food we eat, it is important to have a balance, whatever the specific diet that we can follow,” said Dr. Chris Scuderi, a family doctor who trains at Millennium Physician Group in Jacksonville, Florida, Fox News Digital. (He too was not involved in the new study.)
In general, food choices feed not only the body; They also feed the mind, said Scuderi.
“Our diet can certainly affect our mood, and if we are weak in a certain nutrient, it can make us feel depressed, irritable or anxious,” said Scuderi.
At this stage, Scuderi said that he “always recommends that my patients balance their diet as much as possible, including (eat) many fruits, vegetables and lean protein sources”.
For anyone concerned about their diet, Scuderi suggested planning a visit with a family doctor to examine eating habits and consider blood tests to check nutrient deficiencies.
“From there, your doctor can develop a plan to integrate these nutrients in a way that works for your specific food needs,” he said.
Scuderi said that someone follows a specific diet that involves avoiding certain types of food, there is a risk of lacking key nutrients.
“However, there are generally other ways to incorporate these nutrients into their diet, whether by making sure to increase the contribution of other food groups or taking vitamins or supplements,” -It declared.
More specifically, he said, the alternatives to milk provide less protein than cow’s milk.
“But there are many other sources of protein for which vegans can opt instead,” he said.
Another advantage of cow’s milk is that it contains natural nutrients such as vitamin B12 and calcium, also said Scuderi.
Julia Zumpano, a dietitian recorded at the Cleveland Clinic Center for Human Nutrition in Cleveland, Ohio, agreed that Cow’s Milk offers health benefits.
“Yes, cow’s milk is considered a dense nutrient food due to its source of calcium, vitamin D, A, B12 and B2, potassium and high quality proteins, saturated fats,” said Zumampano .
But plant-based milks can have some of these fortified ingredients, she also noted.
Experts recommend reading labels carefully when choosing milk alternatives without dairy products.
“When I discuss nutrition with my patients, I remind them of the basics: incorporate fruits and vegetables, as well as lean proteins; limit processed foods, red meats and sugar as much as possible; And drink a lot of water, ”said Scuderi.
“For anyone who feels stressed by his diet and how it affects his health, chat with your family doctor,” he said.
Doctors can help people “develop a lasting nutritional plan and make sense” for the lifestyles of individuals, he said.