Lobbying by the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM) has prompted the FTC to call "no way" on Dairy council ads promoting a link between milk and weight loss. Ads will now focus on dairy in a healthy diet.
Well, that's good, since the scientific evidence that dairy helps weight loss is extremely weak, the studies were conducted in small groups of people, and the effects have not been adequately reproduced. The CSPI called bulls**t on that action in 2005 (link goes to a .pdf). In fact, I was totally shocked to see the advocacy group behind the news today wasn't the one sporting Michael Jacobson at the helm.
Here's what you need to know
While I approve of yanking the ads in that they are promoting (yet another) completely useless way to lose weight, I am compelled to point out who did the lobbying on our behalf.
The PCRM advocates a vegan lifestyle, and naturally would be against the active promotion of animal-sourced foods. (For a good time check out the PCRM-sponsored anti-Atkins site.)
Milk and other dairy products do indeed provide protein, vitamins, and other nutrients to our diet. You absolutely do not have to eat dairy to thrive, but it's not pure poison either. IMO, life is a little nicer with real cheese and milk in it. Other people could care less.
At least now you know if you want to lose weight and can't (or won't) eat dairy, you know you're not missing out on anything.
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-- Posted by: Yumlxpej at July 16, 2009 9:15 AM