“Discover the Health Benefits of Dairy Milk Consumption!”
In addition to using dairy milk in your coffee or with your favorite cereal, consider incorporating more of this beverage into your diet for its nutritional advantages. “Dairy milk is a rich source of essential nutrients that promote overall health,” shared Sarah Heckler, a registered dietitian at Anne Till Nutrition Group in Raleigh, North Carolina, with Fox News Digital. While known for its role in bone health, dairy milk offers several other benefits that make it a valuable part of a balanced diet.
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Here are four ways dairy milk can support growth from childhood to adulthood, along with additional important insights to be aware of. One of the well-known benefits of dairy milk is its contribution to strong bones due to its calcium, vitamin D, and phosphorus content, according to Heckler. Additionally, it helps maintain bone density and reduces fracture risk by working in harmony to fortify bones and prevent conditions like osteoporosis, which can lead to brittle and weak bones over time.
Dairy milk is an excellent source of high-quality protein, containing all nine essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair and growth, Heckler noted. This makes it particularly advantageous for athletes, growing children, and older adults seeking to preserve muscle mass. The protein-carbohydrate combination in milk makes it an effective post-workout recovery drink, aiding in energy replenishment and muscle recovery.
Heckler also highlighted that dairy milk, being nearly 90% water, is a hydrating beverage that supplies essential electrolytes like potassium and magnesium. These minerals play a role in fluid balance maintenance, nerve function regulation, and muscle contraction support.
Moreover, the presence of vitamin A in milk enhances immune function and vision health, while B vitamins contribute to energy production and red blood cell formation, added the nutrition expert. Consistent consumption of milk or yogurt can assist in maintaining a healthy immune system, as detailed on the Undeniably Dairy website.
The protein and zinc in milk can also support the building and functioning of immune cells and signaling molecules in the body, as explained by Matthew Black, a registered dietitian in Columbus, Ohio. While dairy milk or yogurt can be beneficial for the immune system, Black cautioned against giving dairy milk to infants due to its potential impact on digestion and nutrient deficiencies.
He recommended waiting until children are 12 months old before introducing cow’s milk, as it lacks certain nutrients essential for infants and may be hard to digest, causing gastrointestinal issues. As always, it’s advisable for parents and caregivers to consult their medical provider or pediatrician regarding infant nutrition and feeding concerns.
It’s advised that children aged 9 and above consume three cups of milk or dairy per day as recommended by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Guidelines differ for toddlers and children aged 2 to 8. The USDA suggests that children aged 2 and above should include dairy milk in their daily diet.
“Consistent milk consumption, particularly during childhood and adolescence when bone mass is developing, can aid in building a strong skeletal foundation,” Heckler stated. While dairy milk remains a beneficial part of one’s diet throughout life, individual tolerance levels may vary, Heckler added.
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“While children and adolescents benefit greatly from the nutrients for growth and development, some adults may have difficulty digesting milk due to lactose intolerance,” she explained. Heckler noted that lactose-free dairy milk is an alternative that still offers essential nutrients.
Osteoporosis is a medical condition that weakens and makes bones brittle. Dairy milk can help combat osteoporosis.
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“Over time, bones lose calcium, leading to fragility and increased susceptibility to fractures in individuals with osteoporosis,” Black informed Fox News Digital. Risk factors for osteoporosis include family history, age, sex, and race, according to the National Institutes of Health.
Black mentioned that osteoporosis can also be influenced by other factors like hormone levels, medications, diet, and lifestyle. “Adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D can provide your body with the necessary support to prevent or alleviate symptoms associated with osteoporosis,” he advised.
Source: Drinking dairy milk offers unexpected benefits beyond bone health.
