What Are the Pros and Cons of Milk's Effect on Humans?

Human consumption of animal milk is a common practice for beneficial fat and calcium properties, but the health problems many people have with it can negate any inherent value. Plant-based milks are viable and healthful alternatives, yet there are disadvantages to these options as well. Dietary preferences help determine which one is best for each individual.

Cow's Milk

• Allergies and asthma are two of the biggest problems for people who consume cow's milk, but there is a laundry list of other health issues associated with dairy consumption. From rashes to bone/joint issues, the trend toward choosing alternatives to cow's milk is supported by abundant documentation for people of all ages, according to a 2007 study in "Practical Paediatrics." While it has the benefits of calcium for proper bone growth and fats for energy, many babies do not thrive on cow's milk because of health complications.

Goat's Milk

• It is a common notion that goat's milk is a good alternative for people who experience intolerance and allergies with cow's milk; however, both animals have lactose and many of the same proteins that trigger allergic reaction. It is not recommended for children under age 1 due to the lack of sufficient B-12, iron and folate. The safest way to consume goat's milk is in pasteurized form.

Breast Milk

• Ideally, each species should consume its own milk, but a variety of reasons make it necessary for humans to drink animal- and plant-based varieties. Infants can be especially reactionary to anything but breast milk due to the foreign properties of alternatives. The benefits of breastfeeding are well-documented for both mother and baby, including greater resistance to early infection and disease, protection against adolescent health issues and lower risk of osteoporosis and ovarian, breast and uterine cancer for the mother, according to the Natural Resources Defense Council.

Alternatives

• Taste is one of the biggest points that separates one plant-based milk from another. While not recommended for infant formula, Jessica A. Knoblauch notes in "Milking Your Options" how each alternative has a mix of benefits:

  Soy: Equal protein to dairy. Cholesterol-free, minimal saturated fat. High in calcium, vitamins and potassium. Debate over relationship to cancer risks. Causes flatulence

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  Oat: Free of cholesterol, lactose and saturated fat. Minimal allergic reaction. More calories than rice or soy.

  Rice: High in calcium and vitamins A and D. Not a good source of protein.

  Almond: No cholesterol, lactose or saturated fat. Provides iron, vitamin E, riboflavin and certain essential fatty acids. Not good for people with tree nut allergies.