Drinking raw or unpasteurized milk poses significant health risks, as it can harbor dangerous bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella, according to health experts. The consumption of raw milk can lead to a range of health issues, including vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and flu-like symptoms.
In India, where milk is often consumed straight from the farm, the practice of drinking raw milk has gained popularity, partly fueled by social media trends. While some believe that raw milk is a natural food rich in nutrients, experts caution that it can be hazardous to health.
Health Risks Associated with Raw Milk
Raw milk can contain various harmful bacteria, including E. coli, coliform bacteria, Salmonella, Listeria, and Staphylococcus. E. coli, for instance, can cause enteritis and urinary infections if present in excessive amounts. The presence of coliform bacteria indicates poor hygiene in milk production, while Salmonella can lead to food poisoning and typhoid fever. Listeria infections may manifest with symptoms like fever, vomiting, and lethargy, and Staphylococcus can cause food poisoning and gastrointestinal distress.
According to the government of India, it is crucial to boil raw milk as soon as possible to eliminate these harmful pathogens. Dr. Vibhu Kawatra, a Senior Consultant Pediatric Pulmonologist in New Delhi, emphasizes that raw milk is not safe for consumption, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and pregnant women.
Misconceptions About Probiotics in Raw Milk
Some consumers believe that raw milk is easier to digest due to the presence of lactase from probiotic bacteria. However, studies from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) indicate that raw milk does not contain probiotics. Instead, the health risks associated with its consumption outweigh any potential benefits.
Dr. Kawatra warns that prolonged consumption of raw milk can lead to severe health complications, including kidney infections and even kidney failure due to E. coli. Dr. Cyriac Abby Philips, also known as “The Liver Doc,” has highlighted the potentially life-threatening consequences of bacterial infections present in raw milk, noting that certain infections can cause significant neurological damage or even death.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) further supports these warnings, stating that germs found in raw milk can be especially dangerous for individuals with weakened immune systems, children, older adults, and pregnant women.
Conclusion
To ensure safety, health experts recommend purchasing pasteurized milk from reputable sources and boiling it before consumption. With the growing trend of drinking raw milk, it is vital for consumers to understand the associated health risks and take necessary precautions to protect their well-being.
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