Is it an Old Wives' Tale or a Legitimate Issue? The Relationship Between Milk and Mucus Production

The 12th-century Jewish physician Maimonides is widely known for recommending chicken soup as a remedy for colds. Modern research has shown that chicken soup possesses anti-inflammatory properties and can alleviate cold symptoms.

In addition to his chicken soup advice, Maimonides also cautioned against the consumption of milk, stating that it causes "a stuffing in the head."

While not as popular as the chicken soup remedy, the belief that milk exacerbates sinus issues has been passed down through generations. Many individuals have reported that milk worsens their sinus problems.

Although most scientists previously dismissed this notion, a recent study suggests that milk does indeed stimulate mucus production, worsen cold symptoms, and should be avoided by those with respiratory infections.

Let's delve into the details. . .

Surprising Discovery by Skeptical Doctor

A randomized, double-blind study published in the journal Laryngoscope in September was conducted by Adam Frosh and his team at the Department of Ear, Nose and Throat Surgery, Lister Hospital, Stevenage, England.

Dr. Frosh, who was initially skeptical about the milk-mucus connection, stated, "I was doubtful and didn't think it was true [but] I have been asked about it by numerous patients over the years, prompting me to investigate the matter to dispel any misconceptions."

The research team enrolled 26 men and 82 women experiencing persistent increased mucus secretions in their head and upper body.

All participants followed a dairy-free diet for six days. From the third to the sixth day, half of them consumed 12 ounces of full-fat cow's milk, while the other half drank an equal amount of soya milk. Both beverages were flavored to taste identical.

While all participants reported reduced mucus secretion in the initial two days, the group consuming soya milk continued to experience a decrease in symptoms over the following four days, whereas the cow's milk group described a significant increase in mucus production.

Reflecting on the results, Dr. Frosh remarked, "The outcomes were contrary to my expectations. This was a notable effect observed over a relatively short period. It is reasonable to suggest that individuals who feel milk exacerbates their mucus production should consider reducing their dairy consumption or adopting a dairy-free diet to assess improvements in their symptoms."

Debunking the Myth

Dr. Ian Balfour-Lynn, a pediatric respiratory specialist at Royal Brompton Hospital, London, remains unconvinced by the findings.

In a comprehensive review of existing research published in Archives of Disease in Childhood during the same month as the Lister Hospital study, he stated, "[T]here is no evidence...that milk leads to excessive mucus secretion...The milk–mucus myth needs to be firmly refuted."

Dr. Balfour-Lynn proposes that the consistency of milk, which is an emulsion of fat in water, gives the impression that saliva is thicker and more difficult to swallow, leaving a residual sensation in the mouth. This may create the illusion of increased mucus.

Thus, the dispute persists between the tangible effects supported by Dr. Frosh's research and the theoretical stance advocated by Dr. Balfour-Lynn. The truth may lie elsewhere.

Distinguishing Milk Varieties

The predominant milk consumed by the general population is A1 milk, derived from Holsteins and Friesian cattle. A byproduct of A1 milk breakdown, called BCM-7, is believed to trigger mucus production in the gut but not in other parts of the body.

However, BCM-7 might induce mucus production in the respiratory system under specific circumstances. This includes a leaky gut that allows BCM-7 absorption into the bloodstream and existing inflammation in the respiratory organs.

Hence, the ancient observation holds some truth. Milk can instigate mucus production and exacerbate symptoms in certain individuals with colds, contingent upon the individual's gut and respiratory health, as well as the type of milk ingested.

Individuals seeking to avoid BCM-7 in milk can opt for sheep and goat milk. Alternatively, they may consider sourcing A2 milk from older cattle breeds, where BCM-7 remains bound tightly, preventing its release in the gut.