India’s ‘Complete Food – Milk’ Could Be a Silent Health Problem — Here’s Why!

Milk has been part of Indian life for generations. We grow up drinking it with chai, use it in sweets, mix it into dal and rice, and believe it to be one of the most nutritious foods on the planet. For ages, we have been telling children that milk is a complete food, full of calcium, protein, vitamins, and strength. We assumed milk as one of the main ingredients that helps children grow.

But what if this widely loved drink isn’t as harmless as we think?
 

The Big Myth: Milk Is Always Good for Everyone

Dr. Anshuman Kaushal, a surgical gastroenterology specialist in Delhi, recently shared in a video that the belief in milk as a universal complete food is misunderstood. Millions of children drink milk daily without ever asking whether their bodies truly need it or can handle it well.

But research and medical observations show that many people may not properly digest milk. One key reason is lactose intolerance. It is a condition where the body lacks enough of the enzyme needed to break down lactose, the sugar in milk.

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Lactose Intolerance: A Hidden Problem in India

Although milk is everywhere in India, many adults don’t have the natural ability to digest it well. Studies suggest a large portion of the population loses the enzyme needed to digest lactose after infancy. That means they may feel uncomfortable after drinking milk. And unfortunately, they never connect these symptoms to milk itself.

Symptoms of lactose intolerance can include:

• Bloating and gas
• Stomach cramps
• Diarrhoea or loose stools
• Nausea after milk consumption

Many people simply shrug these off as acidity or a weak stomach, when in fact it could be their body telling them milk isn’t being digested properly.

Studies also suggest that rates of lactose intolerance may be higher in Indian and Asian populations compared to Western populations.

Not All Milk Is the Same — and Not All Bodies React the Same

A1 vs A2 milk

Some experts claim that A2 milk (from certain cow breeds) is easier to digest than A1, although scientific evidence is still debated.

Lactose-free options

These remove most of the lactose and may be better tolerated by sensitive individuals.

Plant-based alternatives

Almond, soy, and oat milks are popular substitutes, but these also have their own nutritional profiles and aren’t always healthier if loaded with sugar or additives.

So the overall point here is not about the milk but the individual's digestive health. What works for one person may not be ideal for another.

When Milk Becomes a Health Concern

1. Digestive Troubles

People with lactose intolerance may repeatedly experience bloating, cramps, and gas after drinking milk. These symptoms are often brushed off as common stomach problems, not linked back to milk.

2. Weight and Fat Concerns

Full-fat milk contains calories and saturated fats. Excess consumption without balancing with other nutrients can contribute to weight gain over time.

3. Heart Health Risks

High saturated fat intake from full-fat dairy, if consumed in large amounts, may influence cholesterol levels, affecting heart health.

4. Hidden Dairy Sensitivities

Some people might not have classic lactose intolerance but still feel discomfort due to milk proteins or gut sensitivity. Over time, this can become a recurring issue.

Milk Isn’t Always ‘Complete’ — Personal Needs Vary

Milk remains rich in calcium, protein, and vitamins, which are nutrients essential for bone health and growth in children. It can be a helpful dietary source, especially where other protein sources may be limited. But the idea that everybody needs milk every day and can drink it without issues is not correct.

Experts recommend a personalised approach to dairy consumption rather than blanket assumptions. Pay attention to your body’s reactions, talk to a healthcare professional about symptoms like bloating or discomfort, and explore alternatives if needed.