Rich in calcium, milk contributes to the strength of bones and teeth, the transmission of nerve messages and the regulation of heartbeats… But today, it no longer has the same rating.
While its daily consumption was once recommended, milk is now accused of causing illnesses and digestive problems…
Gradually replaced by plant-based products, such as soy, almond or oat milk, its consumption is decreasing more and more, to the point that the World Health Organization (WHO) is now concerned about it.
“Dairy consumption is decreasing among adolescents and adults, increasing the risk of iodine deficiency”warns the WHO in a report. On the contrary, plant-based alternatives are spreading, it is noted, with concerns about “Insufficient iodine intake in the European region”.
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And for good reason, milk and dairy products are an important source of iodine. However, this element is essential for the synthesis of thyroid hormones which play a fundamental role in the processes of cell growth and maturation, maintenance of body temperature, regulation of energy expenditure and protein synthesis. Iodine is all the more necessary for children, but also for pregnant women, for the development of the fetal brain, recalls the WHO.
A reminder that particularly targets countries that depend on milk as a source of iodine, an element that is not found in vegetable drinks. Faced with this deficiency, women are particularly exposed. Indeed, an iodine deficiency is associated with an increase in the volume of the thyroid with the appearance of a goiter and in its most severe forms can lead to hypothyroidism and cause fatigue, sensitivity to cold, weight gain, etc. However, “Women are already at higher risk of iodine deficiency and thyroid disease than men,” warns Hans Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe.
