Khushi Kapoor recently opened up about her food preferences. While she admits to being a foodie — though not as much as her elder sister Janhvi, the Loveyapa actor said she tries to avoid dairy. “I don’t want to eat dairy so much. I know my stomach is going to hurt. I have these small issues,” Khushi said in an interaction with CurlyTales, adding that Janhvi, on the other hand, isn’t picky about food.
Dairy is a rich source of calcium, protein, and essential vitamins like B12, but overindulgence can pose risks, said Dr Birali Swetha, chief dietician, Gleneagles Aware Hospital, LB Nagar, Hyderabad. “Excessive consumption of dairy products can lead to health concerns, particularly when not balanced with other dietary components,” added Dr Birali.
Experts urge that high dairy intake may contribute to digestive issues, especially in individuals with lactose intolerance. “Symptoms like bloating, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort arise when the body cannot adequately process lactose,” said Dr Birali.
Lactose intolerance is a common problem, causing symptoms like bloating and diarrhea in sensitive individuals, added Kanikka Malhotra, consultant dietician and certified diabetes educator.
Moreover, consuming large quantities of full-fat dairy products can increase saturated fat intake, potentially leading to weight gain and elevated cholesterol levels, which may raise the risk of cardiovascular diseases, said Dr Birali. “The saturated fats found in dairy can elevate cholesterol levels, raising the risk of cardiovascular diseases,” said Malhotra.
Additionally, certain dairy products, like flavoured yoghurts and processed cheeses, often contain added sugars and sodium, contributing to metabolic and blood pressure-related concerns. “Over-reliance on dairy might also crowd out other nutrient-dense foods, leading to an imbalanced diet,” said Dr Birali.
Here’s what to consider (Photo: Getty Images/Thinkstock)
To maintain a healthy balance, select moderate portions of unprocessed dairy, such as low-fat milk, unsweetened yogurt, or cheese, and diversify calcium sources with leafy greens, nuts, and fortified non-dairy alternatives. Individuals with allergies or intolerances should consult a healthcare professional to plan a suitable diet.
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Striking the right balance ensures dairy remains a beneficial, not detrimental, part of overall nutrition.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
