Mind Pump Episode #1178 | Prioritizing Building Muscle Vs. Burning Fat, Varieties Of Milks, & MORE

Processing

The debate between dairy and plant-based milks often centers on processing and marketing tactics. Sal Di Stefano highlights that dairy milk, such as cow or goat milk, is less processed compared to almond or soy milk, which undergo additional steps to become palatable and nutritious 1. He emphasizes that while plant-based milks are marketed as healthier alternatives, they are essentially juices labeled as milk to appeal to consumers 1. Adam Schafer adds that the goal should be to consume less processed foods overall, but acknowledges that some level of processing is inevitable in modern diets 2.

Processed refers to all the steps it takes between taking something from its initial form to your plate or whatever. Okay, milk a cow. Technically, if it's a healthy cow and everything, you could just drink the milk right? There almonds and soy. There's more of a process that goes they're minimally processed. They could be minimally processed, but they're still processed.

--- Sal Di Stefano

Ultimately, if you can tolerate dairy, it can be a nutritious choice, especially when sourced from healthy animals 1.

   

Nutrient Profile

When it comes to health impacts, dairy milk often has a more favorable nutrient profile compared to plant-based alternatives. Sal Di Stefano points out that dairy milk has been a staple in human diets for thousands of years and offers a range of nutrients, especially when sourced from well-raised animals 2. He also notes that while processed foods, including plant-based milks, have their benefits, they are often designed to make you consume more, which can be detrimental to health 2. Justin Andrews humorously adds that historical figures like Genghis Khan thrived on dairy, underscoring its long-standing value 2.

If you can tolerate dairy, there is no milk that's better than dairy. Nutrient wise, it's incredible. It's been a staple for humans in some regions for thousands of years.

--- Sal Di Stefano

While plant-based milks can be a good alternative for those with allergies or intolerances, they often require fortification to match the nutrient content of dairy milk 1.