Plant-based milk versus cow's milk: Which is the healthier choice? Recent research indicates that choosing plant-based dairy alternatives, such as soy milk, oat milk, or almond milk, may negatively impact mental health. A study conducted by the UK Biobank revealed that individuals following a vegan diet are at an increased risk of experiencing anxiety and depression due to their consumption of plant-based milk. The findings were published in the medical journal Frontiers in Nutrition.

What the study found

Researchers who monitored over 350,000 participants have challenged the assumption that milk alternatives are invariably the healthier choice. Their results indicated that those who consume plant-based milk are more prone to depression compared to individuals who drink semi-skimmed cow's milk.

The study revealed that individuals consuming semi-skimmed milk were 12 percent less likely to experience depression and 10 percent less likely to suffer from anxiety, after adjusting for factors such as age, physical health, and income. While skimmed milk showed no beneficial effects, the absence of dairy in one’s diet was associated with a 14 percent higher risk of developing depression.

This may be attributed to the high calcium content in dairy milk, which has been linked to the activation of pathways in the body that enhance serotonin production. The authors of the study noted, “Milk is a rich source of nutrients such as lactose, lipids, protein, and minerals, which are essential for maintaining human health.”

'Semi-skimmed milk may have a protective effect'

The researchers further stated, “The fatty acid profile of semi-skimmed milk may offer greater cerebral protection compared to full cream and skimmed milk, potentially lowering the risk of both depression and anxiety. These findings imply that semi-skimmed milk could have a protective effect against these mental health issues, opening new avenues for dietary interventions.”

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