Pasteurized Milk and Soy: Risk Factors for Cancer

This article explores the potential link between the consumption of pasteurized milk and soy with an increased risk of cancer.

Pasteurized milk and soy are common foods in modern diets, often promoted for their nutritional benefits. However, growing concerns are emerging from scientific studies and functional health professionals regarding their role in promoting cancer. Pasteurization, a heat process designed to eliminate pathogenic bacteria, alters the composition of milk, while soy contains phytoestrogen compounds that may interfere with hormonal balance. This article examines these connections, integrating data from research and insights from experts in functional medicine and holistic nutrition.

Pasteurized Milk and Cancer Risk

Pasteurized milk undergoes high-heat treatment that, according to some experts, destroys beneficial enzymes and generates free radicals, contributing to chronic inflammation and gut problems. Studies indicate that the consumption of conventional dairy products, often containing synthetic growth hormones like rBGH, can cause estrogenic disruption and increase cancer risk. For example, a meta-analysis on Western populations found a positive association between dairy intake and a higher risk of prostate cancer, with a 30–50% increase linked to high calcium and dairy consumption. In addition, insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) present in milk may promote the growth of breast cancer cells.

Pasteurization not only kills harmful bacteria but also enzymes like lactase, making milk harder to digest for those who are lactose intolerant. According to research, pasteurized milk from cows treated with synthetic hormones may contribute to epidemic Western diseases—including obesity, diabetes, and cancer—through insulinotropic effects. A 2001 study linked high dairy consumption to an increased risk of prostate cancer. Systematic evidence shows that dairy is associated with a higher risk of specific cancers such as prostate cancer, while it may reduce colorectal cancer risk, but the overall impact suggests caution.

Soy and Cancer Risk

Soy contains isoflavones, compounds that mimic estrogens, potentially causing hormonal imbalances and promoting tumor growth. Early studies on rats concluded that soy might increase the risk of estrogen-dependent cancers, such as breast cancer. Although more recent research suggests that soy does not increase cancer risk in humans and may even reduce it, concerns persist about processed and GMO soy, which may contribute to infertility, hormonal disruption, and cancers.

Soy isoflavones have been linked to increased tumor growth in animal models, leading to speculation about similar effects in humans, especially during developmental stages. Fermented forms like tempeh may be less problematic, but processed soy is best avoided in anti-cancer diets. Some experts warn that all soy—even organic—negatively interferes with hormones and contributes to cancer.

Expert Opinions

Several doctors and nutritionists have expressed concerns about the consumption of milk and/or soy.

  • Dr. Amy Myers emphasizes the dangers of dairy, noting that pasteurization kills beneficial enzymes and that casein may increase cancer risk, as shown in The China Study. She recommends avoiding dairy to reduce inflammation and hormonal problems. Regarding soy, Dr. Myers warns that it is not a healthy food, with links to cancer due to estrogen-mimicking isoflavones that promote tumors. She suggests avoiding it entirely to prevent hormonal imbalances and tumor growth.

  • Dr. Josh Axe criticizes pasteurized milk for destroying nutrients and generating free radicals, linking it indirectly to cancer through inflammation and hormones. He promotes raw milk as a safer alternative. For soy, Axe notes that processed forms should be avoided in anti-cancer diets and that soy may interfere with hormones, potentially contributing to cancers, although he acknowledges benefits in unprocessed forms.

  • Dr. Neal Barnard, founder of the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, has stated that cheese and other high-fat dairy products are linked to an increased risk of breast cancer.

  • Dr. Michael Greger, known for his work on NutritionFacts.org, explained that galactose in milk may be the reason why dairy consumption is associated with significantly higher risks of hip fractures, cancer, and premature death.

  • The Vegan Nutritionist, a plant-based diet specialist, highlighted that cow’s milk is rich in casein, a protein proven to be highly carcinogenic in humans, contributing to all stages of cancer growth.

  • Dr. Brooke Goldner, an internist and author of Goodbye Lupus, stresses that cow’s milk consumption can contribute to cancer development. She describes casein, the main protein in milk, as a true tumor promoter at the cellular and genetic level. Goldner explains that dairy casein acts at the DNA level, instructing it to proceed with cancer formation.
     This claim is connected to the pioneering studies of Dr. T. Colin Campbell, summarized in the famous book The China Study. In laboratory experiments on rat livers, Campbell demonstrated that casein could “switch on” or “switch off” tumor growth depending on the amount present in the diet: high levels (about 20% of calories) promoted cancer development, while low levels (5%) or plant proteins blocked progression. Campbell described casein as “so powerful that we could control tumor growth simply by adjusting its intake.”
     Goldner often refers to this concept in her interviews, and in a 2017 Twitter post, she explained: “How does milk cause cancer? It increases IGF-1, which stimulates tumor growth and metastasis.” Thus, milk not only alters hormonal balance but also promotes inflammation and processes that favor the proliferation of cancer cells.
     Campbell’s research, published as early as the 1970s and 1980s in journals like Cancer Research and Journal of Nutrition, was later confirmed by the China Project, one of the largest epidemiological studies ever conducted. Data collected across rural Chinese provinces showed a clear correlation: higher animal protein intake was associated with higher rates of chronic diseases, including cancer, while predominantly plant-based diets reduced incidence.

In addition, more than 450 doctors have called for a ban on cow’s milk in schools due to its links with cancer, echoing the concerns of experts such as Dr. T. Colin Campbell and Dr. John McDougall, both known for their studies connecting dairy to cancer.

Although scientific research is always evolving, the concerns raised by studies and experts such as Dr. Myers, Dr. Axe, Dr. Barnard, Dr. Greger, and others suggest that pasteurized milk and soy may contribute to cancer risk through hormonal, inflammatory, and insulinotropic mechanisms. Alternatives such as raw milk from trusted sources, organic A2 dairy, or non-soy plant-based options are recommended to minimize risks. Further research is needed to clarify these links.

🍎 What to Eat if You Have Cancer or Follow a Low-Sugar Diet

For those undergoing cancer treatment or aiming to reduce sugar intake, food choices are critical. An effective strategy is to focus on nutrient-rich foods that are low in simple sugars. Frozen fruits and vegetables can have the same nutrients as fresh ones, representing a practical and healthy alternative.

Recommended foods include:

  • Healthy proteins: fatty fish (salmon, sardines), lean chicken and turkey, beef and turkey from reliable sources, eggs or egg substitutes, legumes such as beans (black, red, pinto), chickpeas, lentils.

  • Beneficial fats: olive oil, coconut oil, avocado, nuts.

  • Complex carbohydrates: whole grains such as brown rice, sweet potatoes, fiber-rich vegetables.

  • Powerful vegetables: broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, bok choy, spinach, romaine lettuce, leafy greens, garlic.

  • Low-sugar fruits: berries (raspberries, blackberries, pesticide-free strawberries, blueberries), kiwi, grapefruit, lemon, lime, watermelon, papaya, cantaloupe, pears, peaches, oranges.

  • Natural probiotics: whole yogurt from unpasteurized milk, kombucha, coconut milk, almond milk, fresh sheep’s milk, fresh goat’s milk.

  • Beverages: green tea, coconut water.

Incorporating these foods can help support the immune system, reduce inflammation, and maintain a favorable metabolic balance.

Food Choices and Their Impact

Food choices can have a direct impact on well-being during and after cancer treatments, as well as in a low-sugar diet. Every person, however, has specific needs depending on their medical condition, ongoing treatments, and lifestyle.

👉 Practical advice: Before changing your diet, always consult a nutritionist specialized in oncology or functional diets.

If you would like personalized support, our nutrition and wellness programs guide you in choosing the foods best suited to strengthen your immune system, reduce inflammation, and improve your quality of life.

💡 Prevention and healing also begin at the table: invest in your health today to gain well-being tomorrow.

With heart,
 Jasmine Angelique
 Naturopath in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Best Quantum Therapist (title obtained in the United States, 2025), Scientific Copywriter


References

1.  9 Myths of Pasteurization (or Homogenization) and Better Options - https://draxe.com/nutrition/9-myths-of-pasteurization-or-homogenization-better-options/

2.  Are These Cancer-Causing Foods in Your Diet? - https://draxe.com/nutrition/cancer-causing-foods/

3.  Dairy-Free Diet Benefits, Plus 6 Alternatives - https://draxe.com/nutrition/dairy-free-diet/

4.  The Dangers of Dairy - https://www.amymyersmd.com/blogs/articles/the-dangers-of-dairy

5.  Just say no to dairy! - https://www.facebook.com/AmyMyersMD/posts/just-say-no-to-dairy/10152007253109175/

6.  Dairy Consumption: Higher Rates of Mortality, Cancers, Bone ... - https://eatingourfuture.wordpress.com/eating-meat-raises-risks-of-cancer-heart-disease-early-death-shorter-life/dairy-milk-health-problems-risks-related-disease-illness-issues/

7.  5 Reasons Soy Foods Are Not Health Foods - https://www.amymyersmd.com/blogs/articles/soy-foods

8.  Dairy products linked to increased risk of cancer - https://www.ox.ac.uk/news/2022-05-06-dairy-products-linked-increased-risk-cancer

9.  Natural Compounds Derived from Soy and Other Plants Reduce ... - https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/news/newsroom/news-releases/2024/01/natural-compounds-derived-from-soy-and-other-plants-reduce-breast-cancer-recurrence-and-improve-survival-research-shows

10.  Does Soy Cause Cancer? Understand the Facts - https://www.cancercenter.com/community/blog/2022/11/does-soy-cause-cancer

11.  Dairy consumption and risks of total and site-specific cancers in ... - https://bmcmedicine.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12916-022-02330-3

12.  How to Eat An Anti-Cancer Diet: 6 Steps - https://draxe.com/nutrition/anti-cancer-diet/

13.  Today, I'm clearing up the soy controversy... - https://www.facebook.com/DrJoshAxe/posts/today-im-clearing-up-the-soy-controversy-by-explaining-what-forms-of-soy-you-sho/10153004882571178/

14.  Do You Drink Pasteurized Milk? - https://draxe.com/nutrition/9-myths-of-pasteurization-or-homogenization-better-options/

15.  Are These Cancer-Causing Foods in Your Diet?! - https://draxe.com/nutrition/cancer-causing-foods/

16.  Soy Milk Benefits, Nutrition and Side Effects - https://draxe.com/nutrition/soy-milk/

17.  The Dangers of Dairy – Amy Myers MD - https://www.amymyersmd.com/blogs/articles/the-dangers-of-dairy

18.  Dairy-Free Diet Benefits, Plus 6 Alternatives - https://draxe.com/nutrition/dairy-free-diet/

19.  5 Reasons Soy Foods Are Not Health Foods – Amy Myers MD - https://www.amymyersmd.com/blogs/articles/soy-foods

20. https://www.eatingwell.com/best-low-sugar-fruits-11751935

21.Mentions of Dr. T. Colin Campbell and Dr. John McDougall (@dollmaker27): Dairy linked to cancer.
 🔗 https://x.com/dollmaker27/status/1962217522943447240
22. Post by @frasier_hal on dairy and cancer.
 🔗 https://x.com/frasier_hal/status/1295067509092167682
23. Dr. Brooke Goldberg, MD (cited by @DMedicinals): Casein as a cancer promoter.
 🔗 https://x.com/DMedicinals/status/1958757267291218283
24. The Vegan Nutritionist (@vegannutrition1): Casein in cow’s milk is carcinogenic.
 🔗 https://x.com/vegannutrition1/status/1359507510701535233
25. Dr. Michael Greger (@nutrition_facts): Galactose in milk linked to cancer risk.
 🔗 https://x.com/nutrition_facts/status/1566486253926850564
26. Dr. Neal Barnard (@DrNealBarnard): Link between high-fat dairy and breast cancer risk.
 🔗 https://x.com/DrNealBarnard/status/1182037839678246913
27. Second post by @frasier_hal on dairy and cancer.
 🔗 https://x.com/frasier_hal/status/1295067509092167682
28. 450 doctors cited by @frasier_hal: Cow’s milk linked to cancer.
 🔗 https://x.com/frasier_hal

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