Apollo Doctor Alarms India on Milk as a Hidden Health Issue and Lactose Intolerance

Dr. Anshuman Kaushal, an Apollo Surgical Gastroenterology Specialist, challenges India's belief in milk as a complete food. He highlights that up to 90% of Asians struggle with lactose digestion post-childhood, leading many Indians to mistake lactose intolerance symptoms for acidity or gas. Dr. Kaushal advises exploring A1, A2, lactose-free, or plant-based alternatives and suggests a trial elimination test. Experts recommend personalized dairy intake rather than total avoidance, urging awareness of this overlooked health issue.

A recent discussion initiated by Dr. Anshuman Kaushal, a Delhi-based Surgical Gastroenterology Specialist, has brought to light an often-ignored health concern regarding milk consumption in India. Dr. Kaushal challenges the deeply ingrained cultural belief that milk is a 'complete food,' arguing that a significant portion of the Indian population, like many Asians, struggles to digest lactose after childhood—a figure he places as high as 90 percent. He notes that common symptoms of lactose intolerance, such as acidity and gas, are frequently misdiagnosed by individuals, leading to prolonged discomfort and unaddressed health issues. The specialist elaborates on various milk options available, including A1 and A2 milk, lactose-free dairy, and plant-based alternatives, guiding consumers on their potential choices. To identify personal sensitivities, Dr. Kaushal recommends a practical trial elimination test for dairy products. Echoing global health advice, including that from the Mayo Clinic, the article emphasizes that the goal is not necessarily complete avoidance but rather a personalized approach to dairy intake based on individual tolerance. This expert's intervention serves as a crucial call to action for Indians to re-evaluate their dietary habits concerning milk and consider potential underlying health implications they might be overlooking.