Health Benefits of Milk

As kids, most people heard phrases along the lines of “drink your milk so you’ll grow big and strong!” While many people simply rolled their eyes and finished their milk so they could get to the good part (dessert), the truth is that milk does provide valuable nutrients that kids need during their development.

There are several benefits from drinking milk other than just ‘strong bones’. These benefits come from milk products such as cheese, butter, cottage cheese, and flavored milk as well. Milk consumption is essential to maintain good health and is a great source of calcium for all ages. The following are 6 benefits kids and adults gain from drinking milk.

Calcium 

Milk is the best source of calcium for our body. Calcium protects our bodies from bone loss, migraine headaches, obesity in children and aids in losing unwanted fats. It is essential to get the recommended amount of daily calcium intake in order to maintain strong bones and health benefits and prevent future health risks due to lack of calcium.

Vitamin D 

Vitamin D actually helps the body absorb calcium. Therefore, almost all milk produced within the United States has been fortified with 100 to 120 IU of Vitamin D. Vitamin D helps bone strength by promoting bone growth and reducing the risk of brittle bones. It also reduces inflammation and increases immune function.

Healthy Bones

There are three main factors that contribute to healthy, strong bones. Genetics, physical activity, and proper calcium intake. With one eight ounce serving of milk providing 290 mg of milk, it is an excellent source of calcium. You can also offer a serving low-fat cheese which boasts 204 mg of calcium. Since milk is rich in calcium, which is essential for growth and proper strong bone structure milk helps prevent bone growth disorders and decrease the chance of bone fractures when injured.

Healthy Teeth

Encouraging young children to drink milk will result in great dental health. Milk protects the enamel surface against acidic substances. Drinking milk for energy and good health with help children reduce the consumption of soft drinks, thus reducing the risk of decayed teeth and weak gums.

Rehydration

Milk contains a good amount of water molecules so it helps keep bodies hydrated. Especially for children who are constantly active and running around it is important to stay hydrated. Therefore, having a glass of milk is a great resource for hydration. It helps in rehydrating skin as well leading to a healthy and radiant skin. Rehydration also helps in soothing the tummy.

Improving Vitamin Intake

Milk contains vitamins and minerals to keep you fit, healthy and strong. These vitamins and minerals are good for eyesight, carbohydrates that increase energy and protein for body repair and growth.

Key Takeaways

Milk is one of the best sources of calcium for the body.

Milk is filled with Vitamin D that helps the body absorb calcium.

Proper calcium intake contributes to strong and healthy bones.

Drinking milk provides other benefits such as healthy teeth, rehydration and improves vitamin intake.