Raw milk from pasture-fed cows is one of the healthiest and most nutritionally-dense beverages you can drink today. It is loaded with a wide array of nutrients, including calcium, vitamin C, amino acids like l-arginine, and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA).
But despite its notable nutritional profile, raw milk is vilified by health agencies, and accused of causing sickness, even death.
For example, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) claims that between 1998 and 2008, there have been two deaths caused by raw milk. These cases are actually caused by a type of cheese called queso fresco, which isn't even legal under current FDA regulations.
The truth is that raw milk derived from healthy, clean cows raised in green pastures is loaded with health benefits and medicinal qualities. It is a healthful, living food that's very different from pasteurized milk, which is actually a dead, white liquid loaded with growth hormones and antibiotics.
In fact, raw milk is loaded with:
* Healthy bacteria that is good for your gastrointestinal tract
* Over 60 digestive enzymes, immunoglobulins (antibodies), and growth factors
* Cancer-fighting conjugated linoleic acid (CLA)
* Beneficial raw fats and proteins in a highly bioavailable form, all 100 percent digestible
* Vitamins A, B, C, D, E, and K
* A balanced blend of minerals, including magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, and iron
The live lactobacilli in raw milk better increases the absorption of these nutrients.
Many people who drink raw milk have experienced improvement in their health. Health issues like digestive problems, eczema, and allergies disappeared after drinking raw milk. Raw milk can also be tolerated by lactose-intolerant individuals and those with "milk allergies."
Of course, it is extremely important for you to ensure that your raw milk comes from a reputable source. If you are planning to consume raw milk from cows raised in confined animal feeding operations (CAFOs), then you're giving yourself far less than you deserve.
Keep in mind that the animals in factory farms are placed in filthy and cramped living conditions. This causes harmful bacteria to thrive and proliferate, which often ends up in the milk you drink. These cows are usually given growth hormones and antibiotics, which also end up in their milk. This is why raw milk from CAFOs is definitely a dangerous liquid.
To ensure that you're drinking healthy and safe raw milk, buy it only from a small local farmer that allows his cows to graze in open pastures. It is also advisable to visit the farm so you can see the animals' living conditions.

Author's Bio: 

Andrea is a web content writer. He is currently researching holistic nutrition, specifically lesser-known nutrients that can be acquired from raw dairy, such as l-arganine and CLA. He hopes to spread the message about raw milk's benefits.