What dietary commonality do Asian, Hispanic, and Native Americans share related to milk consumption?

The dietary commonality that Asian, Hispanic, and Native Americans share regarding milk consumption is characterized by little milk consumption. This trend can be attributed to a higher prevalence of lactose intolerance among these populations, which affects their ability to digest lactose, the sugar found in milk. As a result, many individuals from these backgrounds may experience digestive discomfort when consuming dairy products.

Cultural dietary patterns also play a significant role. In many Asian diets, for example, milk is not a staple food item and is often substituted with other sources of nutrition, such as legumes, soy products, and grains. Similarly, traditional Hispanic and Native American cuisines often emphasize other nutrient sources rather than dairy, which contributes to minimal milk intake.

Understanding these cultural and physiological factors helps explain why these groups demonstrate little consumption of milk compared to other populations that might have a higher tolerance for lactose and a greater incorporation of dairy into their diets.