Benefits of Drinking Milk

Milk and its derivatives are proposed as being useful foods throughout all life periods, in particular during childhood and adolescence, when their contents of calcium, protein, phosphorus, and other micronutrients might promote skeletal, muscular, and neurologic development.

Milk is frequently recommended as a great way to help prevent osteoporosis, or the thinning of bones in the body. It was your first food and has been part of the human diet for thousands of years. It’s easy to see why, as milk is nutritious, versatile, delicious, and relatively easy to obtain. While milk can come from many sources, including an ever-increasing variety of nondairy milk, cow's milk is still the primary form in our diets. 

Protein for Overall Health

Protein is the basic building block of the human body and is needed by the body to create and repair cells, as well as being important for overall growth and development. If you’re looking for a quick, well-balanced snack, milk’s high protein content makes it a great choice.

In fact, studies have shown that a glass of chocolate milk works as good as, if not better than, expensive post-workout recovery drinks.

Strong Bones and Teeth

Calcium is essential for strong bones and teeth, making it an important part of our daily diet. It's especially vital in our early years. Extra calcium is needed during childhood and adolescence because that’s when bones do most of their growing. 

Calcium becomes extra important again for older adults as bone density decreases. Milk is frequently recommended as a great way to help prevent osteoporosis, or the thinning of bones in the body. Drinking milk daily has also been shown to reduce the progression of osteoarthritis, or inflammation of the joints, in the knees of women.

Nutrition

Milk provides many essential nutrients. These include:

 -Phosphorus

- Calcium

- Vitamin A

- Vitamin D (in products fortified with vitamin D)

 -Riboflavin

- Vitamin B12

- Potassium

-Zinc

-Choline

-Magnesium

-Selenium

Because milk is a protein- and nutrient-rich food, it’s easy to have too much of a good thing. Eight ounces is considered a full serving of milk, but glasses found in most kitchens are frequently 14-16 ounces, so pay attention to how much you drink.  

An important factor to consider is milk’s fat content, which will vary based on the type you buy. One cup of skim milk is fat-free, while 1% milk has 2 grams, 2% milk has 5 grams, and whole milk (3.25%) has 8 grams. Talk to your doctor about the best option for you. 

Adding milk to your diet can be as simple as drinking a cold glass with your meals. Or, a warm mug of milk can be a wonderfully relaxing way to end the day. 

Milk can also be substituted for water in many recipes, making dishes more substantial and giving them a richer taste. For instance, making oatmeal with milk nearly doubles its protein content. Soups are another great food for the addition of milk. 

As a calorie-cutting option, low-fat milk can be used in place of half-and-half in many recipes. Experiment and you may discover ways to create a dish that’s both healthier and tastier.

Milk is a versatile ingredient that can be added to your diet in a number of ways. Try adding it to smoothies, coffee or your morning oatmeal. 

So what are you waiting for? Drink a milk everyday!