The doodh dilemma

The dairy sector has come in for much criticism of late, and the long-held theory that milk is essential for human health and wellbeing is being debunked. We look at both sides of the story

The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations designated the ‘Day’ in 2001, to recognize the importance of milk as a global food, and to celebrate the dairy sector. Each year since, the benefits of milk and dairy products have been actively promoted around the world, and the fact that dairy is the livelihood of one billion people is highlighted.

Milk was once, and maybe still is, former India captain MS Dhoni’s favourite beverage – he was reportedly drinking 4-5 litres of milk every day till he became a cricketer. Dhoni has often said that drinking milk every day is the secret of his health and fitness.

But do we humans really need to have milk every day? That’s something that’s up for debate.

Mumbai-based expert Mehak Makhija says, “Including milk in the daily diet helps maintain overall health. Milk is a wholesome and well-balanced food that contains amazing health benefits. A 100 ml of cow’s milk contains approximately 88 gm water, 5 gm carbohydrate, 3.9 gm fat, 3 gm protein, 120 mg calcium and 12 mg cholesterol. Moreover, it also contains 66 calories of energy.”

“Milk has been a staple in many households for generations, cherished for its rich nutrients like calcium, protein and fat, vital for growth and maintaining bone and muscle mass, especially for those with active lifestyles like aspiring cricketers. However, while milk is easily accessible and convenient, it’s important to note that it's not the only option for achieving optimal nutrition,” says Sahana Dasharathi, a Bangalore-based sports nutritionist.

The source of the milk consumed is another important factor. How the cows are treated and what they are fed affects the quality of milk. There are healthier variants, like A1 milk sourced from healthier cows and sustainably procured.

Also, a recent study says a high percentage of Indians are lactose intolerant but they aren’t aware of it.

“Dairy milk is not vegan. Many international athletes have turned vegan in the recent past. Virat Kohli says his body responded better when he stayed away from dairy overall. While vegan milk options are easily available in the market today, they are not the only nutrition source an athlete needs,” says another nutritionist, Keertana Ramu. “An athlete can easily obtain all the nutrients available in milk from other food sources. But if you drink milk, make sure to add a good homemade or natural protein-rich powder to it and have it 45mins before practice sessions. It’s also best to avoid sugar,” she advises.