Health Benefits of Milk
Milk
is a wholesome nutrient-rich food that provides high
levels of essential nutrients in relation to its calories.
Milk tastes great and provides significant amounts of
many of the nutrients our bodies require for good health:
-
High-quality protein
- Calcium
- Potassium
- Magnesium
- Phosphorous
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin D
Calcium is one of the nutrients most likely to be lacking in the American diet. According to government statistics nine out of 10 women and seven out of 10 men fall short of calcium recommendations.
All milks—whole, reduced fat, low-fat, and nonfat milk—have a similar nutrient
profile with the exception of calories and fat. The nutrient content of chocolate
and other flavored milk is comparable to that of unflavored milk. In general,
chocolate-flavored milks have about 60 more calories than their unflavored
counterparts per eight-ounce serving.
Nutrients in Milk
Today, a variety of milks are available to suit different lifestyles and meet the taste, nutrition, health, and convenience preferences of consumers. Milks of varied fat content are available for those wishing to control calorie or fat intake and low- or reduced-lactose milks are available for individuals who experience lactose intolerance.
No matter which type of milk you prefer, milk is a nutrient-rich food, providing
a powerhouse package of essential nutrients, including:
Calcium
- Essential for healthy bones and teeth, muscle contraction, normal blood clotting and nervous system functioning.
- Calcium also plays a protective role in hypertension, certain cancers and in body weight management.
Protein
- Needed to develop and maintain muscles, promote healthy skin and hair, maintain hormonal balance and blood albumin levels.
- Essential for the proper functioning of antibodies to help resist infection.
Vitamin A
- Needed for growth, cell division, reproduction, healthy skin, hair and tissues, vision and immune system.
Vitamin D
- Promotes absorption and use of calcium for healthy bones and teeth.
- The skin can synthesize vitamin D if exposed to enough sunlight on a regular basis.
Potassium
- Helps to maintain healthy blood pressure, may reduce the risk of developing kidney stones and may help to decrease bone loss.
Collectively, this unique package of vitamins & minerals work together to keep you healthy and help prevent diseases, such as hypertension and osteoporosis.
Magnesium
- Aids transmission of nerve impulses and muscle contraction.
Phosphorous
- Is an essential component of cell membranes in the form of phospholipids.
One serving of milk is one eight-ounce cup. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend that individuals ages nine and older consume three servings of milk, cheese or yogurt each day.
Cooking with Milk
Milk is one of the most versatile of all foods. It’s delicious on its own as a beverage, or can be used as a base for hot chocolate, specialty coffees or a tasty milk shake. But milk is far more than just a drink. It can be used to make creamy soups, silky smooth sauces and crispy batters. It can also be used as a base to make delicious desserts, custards, creams, sauces and mousses. Its uses are limitless.
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