Study Links Dairy Product Intake to Mortality

Overview of Dairy Consumption and Health

A recent study published in the British Medical Journal explored the relationship between dairy product consumption and mortality rates. The health impacts of dairy products, including milk and cheese, have sparked debate, leading to confusion among consumers regarding their health benefits or risks.

Research Context and Objectives

The study was part of the Italian cohort of the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC). Researchers aimed to determine if dairy consumption was linked to mortality risk, considering various factors such as age, sex, and other potential confounders.

Key Findings on Mortality Rates

The findings revealed that 59% of the participants who were monitored died from cancer, while 19% succumbed to cardiovascular diseases. Notably, the researchers did not find a significant association between any type of dairy intake and overall mortality rates.

Specific Insights on Milk Intake

When examining milk consumption specifically, the study indicated a 25% reduction in the risk of mortality from all causes for individuals consuming less than 200 grams per day. However, this benefit did not extend to those consuming more than 200 grams per day compared to non-consumers. These results were consistent regardless of whether the milk was reduced-fat or whole.

Conclusion on Dairy Intake and Mortality

The study concluded that “low to average” milk intake, as well as the consumption of other dairy products, showed no association with mortality risk.

Reference

Valeria Pala, Sabina Sieri, Paolo Chiodini, Giovanna Masala, Domenico Palli, Amalia Mattiello, Salvatore Panico, Rosario Tumino, Graziella Frasca, Francesca Fasanelli, Fulvio Ricceri, Claudia Agnoli, Sara Grioni, Vittorio Krogh. (2019). Associations of dairy product consumption with mortality in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC)–Italy cohort. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, nqz183, https://doi.org/10.1093/ajcn/nqz183