Milk is an important part of our diet. We begin drinking it when we
are young, but our intake decreases as we get older. Some people shy
away from it because they fear that it will add too much fat to their
diet. Others leave it out because they believe that they no longer need
it. You are never too old to reap the rewards of drinking milk. It is a
great source of vitamins and nutrients, and it has several health
benefits, such as:
1. Glowing Skin
Cleopatra took milk baths to help her
skin stay soft, supple and glowing. You can do the same, or you can
drink a few glasses of whole milk each day to get its benefits. Milk has
several nutrients which help skin look its best. It has lactic acid
which can act as an exfoliant and enzymes to help smooth skin. It also
has amino acids that help keep skin moisturized. Milk can help prevent
damage from environmental toxins because it has antioxidants. However,
if you have a sensitivity to milk or dairy products, milk can actually
aggravate your skin.
2. Healthy Bones and Teeth
Milk is a great source of
calcium, which is essential for healthy bones. Not only do young
children need it while their bones are growing, but adults need it to
keep their bones strong and to prevent osteoporosis. Milk is also great
for strong teeth, and it helps prevent tooth decay and cavities. In
order for the calcium to be absorbed by the body, vitamin D must be
present. If you have a vitamin D deficiency, buy milk that is fortified
with extra vitamin D to ensure that your body absorbs the calcium.
3. Muscles
Milk contains protein, which helps to
rebuild muscles. Drink a glass of milk after you exercise to give your
body what it needs to recover. It will help to keep soreness at bay
while replenishing fluids that you lost during your workout.
4. Weight Loss
Studies show that women who drink low-fat
or skim milk lose more weight than those who exclude milk from their
diet. It is a great appetizer and it makes a healthy snack. Add a glass
to your dinner, or drink a glass while eating a piece of fruit.
5. Less Stress
Milk is a great way to de-stress at the
end of the day. A glass of warm milk will help to relax tense muscles
and soothe frayed nerves. Milk has also been proven to reduce symptoms
of PMS and boost energy. The next time you are feeling frazzled, try
drinking a glass of milk while you soak in a bubble bath.
6. Healthy Body
Milk has properties that lower high blood
pressure and risk of strokes. It reduces the liver's production of
cholesterol, and it can act as an antacid. Vitamins A and B in milk can
help build good eyesight. Milk has also been show to help lower risk of
certain cancers.
There are several varieties of milk on the market, such as whole, 2%,
low-fat and fat free. If you are concerned about the growth hormones
used in milk, choose to go the organic route. With all of the types of
milk available, you should be able to find something that fits your diet
and nutritional needsLabels: nutrition
