WHO warns of overconsumption of milk and plant products

In a report published on June 28, the World Health Organization warns that plant-based milks can cause iodine deficiency, which is dangerous for fetuses and the thyroid.

Soy milk, coconut milk, oat milk… These plant-based products are increasingly consumed in Europe, but be careful if you over-consume them. The World Health Organization (WHO) warns, in a report published on June 28, of the risks they represent: “TDairy product consumption is decreasing among adolescents and adults, increasing the risk of iodine deficiency”we can read.

Experts highlight this problem, particularly for pregnant women, before warning: substituting dairy products for these plant-based alternatives contributes has a “Inadequate iodine intake in the WHO European Region”.

Traditionally, our iodine intake comes from table salt, which is often rich in iodine. Fish are also a source, since they consume seawater that is composed of it. But traditional dairy products represent 20% of our intake, according to the WHO. Farm animals are fed with food already enriched with iodine. Turning away from dairy products or fish, towards milks and processed plant foods, can lead to an iodine deficiency in consumers, according to the organization.

Iodine deficiency is “associated with an increase in thyroid volume”, warns the National Health Safety Agency. “Severe forms of deficiency can lead to hypothyroidism”When left untreated, it impacts heart health and increases cardiovascular risk.

This risk mainly affects women, according to the WHO, because they are more predisposed to these health problems. Especially since this deficiency, in pregnant women, can impact the brain development of the fetus, or even young children. The organization therefore recommends keeping iodized foods in your diet, such as the famous table salt.