The relationship between dairy and inflammation is not as straightforward as it may seem, which could explain why some people believe dairy is pro-inflammatory.
For instance, individuals with dairy sensitivities or allergies may, in fact, experience an inflammatory response from consuming dairy, perpetuating the idea that everyone should avoid dairy foods. “Personal experiences can lead some to believe dairy is inflammatory for everyone, but large reviews consistently show dairy does not cause inflammation for most people,” says Julie Pace, RDN, a registered dietitian-nutritionist and the owner of Core Nutrition Health and Wellness based in Ridgeland, Mississippi.
Another reason some people link dairy with inflammation is that some dairy foods, such as full-fat milk and cheese, contain saturated fat. “Research suggests that saturated fat intake can negatively impact the gut barrier, potentially leading to increased intestinal permeability and inflammation,” says Dahlia Marin, RDN, a Newport Beach, California–based registered dietitian-nutritionist and the cofounder of Married to Health.
The intestinal wall acts as a barrier that selectively absorbs nutrients and protects our bodies from potentially harmful substances like microorganisms and antigens. Changes in the permeability, or the rate at which these molecules are allowed to pass, can affect our immune system, which may lead to inflammation that impacts overall health.
While some dairy foods contain saturated fat, research indicates that they don’t cause inflammation the way other saturated fat foods do.
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