There have been numerous contradictory reports regarding dairy and inflammation*.

*This post will refer to chronic, low-grade inflammation, which is related to the development of metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Nowadays, disorders such as these are on the rise, therefore it is imperative that the question which gives the title to this post is answered.

Firstly, current evidence suggests quite the opposite effect: dairy has anti-inflammatory properties when included in a balanced diet. A review of 52 clinical trials indicated that both low-fat and high-fat products, as well as fermented products, have anti-inflammatory activity in healthy individuals.

Hence, including milk, cheese, yogurt, kefir… in your daily diet will remarkably help your immune system into a less inflammatory state. Other anti-inflammatory foods include vegetables, particularly dark-green leafy ones (no surprise there!). These will lower the risk of metabolic disorders, which are very common, particularly in developed countries.