Nutritional Value Of Dairy
Milk is the nutritious liquid produced by the mammary glands of female mammals. Milk from cow & water buffalo milk is the most widely used but sheep, goat, and camel milk is also consumed in different cultures for its nutritional values.
Milk and products derived from milk, such as yogurt, butter, ghee, paneer, different kinds of cheese constitute major dairy products. They are considered to be the main dietary source of calcium – an essential element for good health and bone and teeth density – particularly in children.
Current guidelines suggest a daily recommended calcium intake of 500 to 1300 milligrams for children, 1000 milligrams for adults, and 1200 milligrams for older people. The suggested amount can be obtained with approximately one serving of dairy product per meal.
Milk and its products occupy an important place in the overall health and well-being of humans. Milk is beneficial as it is plentiful, inexpensive and very nutritious. Add the fact that it is also an excellent source of protein, vitamins and minerals and we can categorise as a ‘super food”.
Nutrition from dairy products is categroised as complete because it composes all the essential amino acids and essential fatty acids which encourage muscle growth, especially in children. Milk protein is particularly rich in amino acid lysine and this makes milk a great supplement to cereal grains, nuts and seeds.
Lactose accounts for 97% of the carbohydrates in milk. Much of it is converted into easily digestible lactic acid after fermentation as in yogurt, cheeses and buttermilk.
All dairy items are also a good source of B-complex vitamins such as riboflavin, pyridoxine, thiamin, pantothenic acid, vitamin-B12, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium and zinc. Natural grass-fed cow’s milk is a rich source of vitamin-A and B-carotene. B-carotene is the pigment responsible for the yellow color of milk, more noticeable in butter and ghee.
Dairy products are among the most nutritious food items. They are only good for bones and teeth, rich in high-quality protein but also an excellent source of vitamins and minerals.