Continue to Enjoy Milk for Better Health
By Tom Herrin
All children begin life using milk as their primary food source. It is the most natural of foods and is known for its ability to support growth and development. This is the reason that it is also included in every meal served to children who attend schools who provide meals from the national meals program. This investment in the health of children shows the significance of milk in the diet. Most of us participated in this program in some way when we were young, but many of us have reduced our intake of milk in favor of other beverages as we have grown older. If we want to continue to have good health, we may want to reconsider ways to increase our consumption of milk.
Milk May Do Wonders for the Heart
For many years, some of the advice we have been given about drinking milk was to only drink fat-free. This was believed to support better heart-health. These days, some believe that drinking milk with some fat may be much healthier. It apparently may help to raise levels of good cholesterol. Milk also contains some pretty good minerals. One of the best for the heart is potassium. It is known to increase the flexibility of the blood vessels which may help to maintain better blood pressure.
Milk May Sicken Some
Not everyone can tolerate milk well. In these cases, drinking milk may have a negative effect on health. Some of these individuals are unable to tolerate lactose. Others have difficulty digesting one of the proteins which is called A1. Even with all of the benefits of drinking milk, people with these issues may become violently ill or irritated. This can mean they have to avoid all milk products.
There Are Ways Around Problems
Even though some people have problems with milk, there are some pretty good alternatives available. Lactose-free milk is now on the market in many different brand names. It seems to be pretty popular. Another alternate kind of milk is called A2. Producers have been able to offer this milk without the A1 protein. It is seemingly gathering greater popularity with many people who previously could not drink milk. Another possibility to take the place of cows' milk is almond milk. For those who are in need of more calcium, it contains more than other kinds of milk and comes in several different flavors.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Downers Grove, Ill.