Detox Benefits of Milk and Yogurt: Daily Consumption and Health Tips

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I have some questions I would like to ask you.
Do milk and yogurt have detoxifying effects? Can they be consumed daily like water? Is it okay to drink cold dairy products in the morning? I also enjoy blending sweet potatoes and various fruits together; is this harmful to the body? I've heard that milk can cause kidney stones.
By the way, can cranberry juice prevent urinary tract infections, and is it effective to consume cranberry fruit as well?

Liu Xiaojun, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2002/10/15

Dr. Xie Huimin reply Nutrition

1.
The belief that milk has detoxifying properties arises from the behavior of individuals frequently exposed to chemical agents who tend to drink milk when inhaling volatile gases.
However, scholars argue that milk does not entirely possess detoxifying effects.
When certain substances enter the stomach, milk can help reduce the absorption of these substances by coagulating due to stomach acid and curdling, thereby breaking down or diminishing their absorption.
Therefore, the claim that drinking milk detoxifies has not been substantiated.
2.
Consuming yogurt in the intestines can have numerous beneficial effects on health.
Lactose is broken down by bacteria into lactic acid, which promotes gastrointestinal motility, aiding in regular bowel movements and waste elimination.
It can improve lactose intolerance, reduce diarrhea, and help prevent infections such as enteritis, as well as colorectal and gastric cancers, while decreasing the absorption of toxic substances.
3.
Milk and yogurt should not be consumed as a substitute for water, as both contain calories, particularly yogurt, which has a significant sugar content.
Drinking them in place of water can lead to excessive calorie intake and potential weight gain.
Therefore, it is advisable to consume milk and yogurt in moderation (1 to 2 cups per day, with each cup being 240 mL).
4.
For individuals with habitual constipation, drinking cold dairy products in the morning can help stimulate gastrointestinal motility and accelerate bowel movements.
However, during episodes of diarrhea, it is advisable to avoid cold products.
If consuming cold dairy products does not cause discomfort, it is generally acceptable.
5.
Mixing sweet potatoes and fruits with yogurt is generally not harmful, provided that it is consumed in moderation; otherwise, it may lead to excessive sugar intake and contribute to obesity.
6.
Cranberry fruit and juice can help prevent urinary tract infections.
Cranberries have a function of acidifying urine, which inhibits bacterial growth.
When combined with lactic acid bacteria, the effect is enhanced.
Therefore, when consuming cranberry fruit, pairing it with a low-sugar yogurt can yield even better results.
7.
It has been confirmed that milk does not cause kidney stones.

Reply Date: 2002/10/15

More Info

When it comes to the detox benefits of milk and yogurt, it's essential to understand their nutritional profiles and how they can fit into a daily diet. Both milk and yogurt are rich in essential nutrients, including calcium, protein, and vitamins, which can support overall health. However, the concept of "detox" is often misunderstood. The human body has its own natural detoxification systems, primarily through the liver and kidneys, which effectively eliminate toxins without the need for specific detox diets or drinks.

Daily Consumption of Milk and Yogurt
Incorporating milk and yogurt into your daily diet can be beneficial, but moderation is key. For adults, the general recommendation is to consume 2-3 servings of dairy per day, which can include milk, yogurt, or cheese. A serving is typically considered to be 1 cup (about 240cc) of milk or yogurt. Drinking milk or yogurt daily can provide essential nutrients, but it's important not to overdo it, as excessive consumption may lead to unwanted weight gain or digestive issues, especially for those who are lactose intolerant.

Detoxification and Health Tips
1. Detoxification: While milk and yogurt do not have specific detox properties, they can support gut health due to their probiotic content, especially in yogurt. Probiotics can help maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria, which is crucial for digestion and overall health.

2. Hydration: While milk and yogurt can contribute to your daily fluid intake, they should not replace water entirely. It's important to drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and support kidney function, which is vital for detoxification.

3. Temperature of Consumption: Drinking cold milk or yogurt in the morning is generally safe and does not negatively impact health. Modern nutrition science does not support the idea that the temperature of food affects bodily functions significantly.

4. Combining with Other Foods: Mixing milk or yogurt with fruits like sweet potatoes or berries can enhance the nutritional value of your meal. These combinations can provide a good balance of carbohydrates, fiber, and vitamins. However, be mindful of portion sizes to avoid excessive calorie intake.

5. Kidney Stones: Concerns about milk causing kidney stones are often related to individual predispositions and dietary habits. For most people, moderate dairy consumption does not increase the risk of kidney stones. However, if you have a history of calcium oxalate stones, it may be wise to consult a healthcare professional about your dairy intake.

6. Cranberry Juice and UTI Prevention: Cranberry juice is known for its potential benefits in preventing urinary tract infections (UTIs). The active compounds in cranberries can help prevent bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract walls. Cranberry fruit itself can also provide similar benefits, so incorporating cranberry products into your diet can be beneficial.

Conclusion
In summary, milk and yogurt can be part of a healthy diet and may support overall health, including gut health, but they should not be relied upon for detoxification. It's essential to consume them in moderation, stay hydrated with water, and maintain a balanced diet rich in various nutrients. If you have specific health concerns, such as kidney stones or digestive issues, it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

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