Is dairy addictive? Dairy can be found in everything, traces can be found in baked goods, as well as most chocolate products out there. Not only is it prevalent in a lot of foods, it can also be considered addictive.
In this post, you’ll find out just how addictive dairy really is.
How many people consume dairy?
Dairy is consumed by a whopping 6 billion people worldwide, making it a common food that many are familiar with. Part of this is due to tradition, marketing, as well as for the sake of it being affordable.
I mean, there’s so many ways to consume dairy, be it a glass of milk, a coffee or tea, a cheese sandwich, a lasagne or chocolate chip cookies… It’s no wander why so many consume it, it’s everywhere.
Is dairy addiction real?
Dairy addiction is something that doesn’t affect everyone, as there are various people that avoid dairy for the sake of diet, or because they’re allergic – Though that doesn’t stop everyone!
As of recently, there is evidence of casomorphin being found in dairy products, reported to alter mood in a way so as to to trigger cravings.
Other scientific data suggests that dairy can trigger addictive responses in the same way that drugs do.
Why is dairy addictive?
The main reason people may be addicted to dairy is main chemical within it called “casein”. Casein is solely found in dairy products and is reported to stimulate the brain’s opioid receptors.
Is dairy addiction withdrawal real?
“Casomorphin withdrawal”, aka milk addiction, is real, despite the lack of common awareness of it. Considering it’s in a LOT of foods as a filler ingredient, it’s very insightful.
I’m sure you’ve heard many say: “I can’t give up cheese”, or “I just love cheese too much” – There’s actually some truth to that on a chemical level.
There are a few different adverse reactions towards casein withdrawl, ranging from fatigue to brain fog.
A list of milk addiction withdrawal symptoms can be found below:
- irritability
- anger
- anxiety
- depression
- brain fog
- fatigue
Which products contain dairy?
Products that contain dairy are any foods that contain the following:
- Milk
- Cheese
- Cream
- Chocolate
- Salad dressings
- Baked goods
- Pancakes & waffles
- Whey protein
And more.
How long does it take to detox from casein?
After you consume dairy, it can take up to 21 days for it to fully leave the system. If you were to fast however, you can get rid of it sooner.
Luckily, in the 21st century, we have many dairy alternatives to choose from. Although not the exact same textures for cheeses, I think we’re definitely getting there.
The key is to start slow, find a plant-based milk you like, and cheese, and so on, if you’re into that. I personally think that dairy isn’t really necessary to an everyday diet, it does much more harm than good.
If you liked this post on how addictive dairy is, be sure to share it with a friend or drop your thoughts below. Thanks for considering Veganising it for your lifestyle inspiration, stay well.
