Milk, also known as nature’s wellness drink, is a palatable drink packed with nutrition and benefits. As we grow older, our intake of milk decreases significantly. Some people avoid drinking milk due to the fear of getting fat, while others quit believing that they no longer need it. However, we are never too old to drink milk and reap the benefits from it. Here are the top 15 amazing benefits of nature’s wellness drink.
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1. Nutritionally Rich:
Milk is a nutritionally rich beverage balanced with a unique proportion of carbohydrates and protein. It is a good source of vitamins A, D, E, and K. It contains minerals such as phosphorus, magnesium, chlorine, and sulphur. It also contains trace amounts of iron and copper. Milk fortified with vitamin D ensures the adequate supply of this nutrient to the human body.
2. Healthy Bones:
Milk contains calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and protein, all which are very essential for the growth and development of bones the right way. Adequate consumption of milk makes the bones stronger and protects them from various degenerative conditions such as brittle bones and debilitating later in life. Milk also helps to improve mineral bone density. Denser bones reduce the risk of fractures and osteoporosis.
3. Teeth:
Milk is essential for a strong teeth and preventing tooth decay and cavities. Casein, a protein found in milk, forms a protective thin film on the enamel surface. This acts as a shield that prevents the erosion of calcium and phosphate when exposed to the acids in the mouth. It stimulates the flow of saliva and reduces the effects of acrogenic foods on teeth. It lessens the oral acidity, one of major the contributing factors of tooth decay. In fact, dentists recommend that milk is the only safe drink to consume between meals, as it does not cause tooth decay.
4. Glowing Skin:
It is a well- known fact that Cleopatra, one of the most beautiful women of all time, took milk baths to keep her skin soft, supple, and glowing. Bathing might not be a feasible option, but you can drink a few glasses of milk daily to reap the benefits for the skin. Milk contains several nutrients, which can make the skin healthy and beautiful. In addition, the antioxidants present in milk prevent the skin from free radical damage. Two to three glasses of milk – preferably whole milk – that is what will keep your skin glowing.
5. Moisturized Skin:
Milk is one of the most effective home remedies for dry skin. The vitamins and lactic acids in milk can soften even the driest skin. Apply milk on the affected areas, leave it for 15 minutes, and wash it off. The lactic acid removes the dead cells from the skin, thereby rejuvenating and revitalizing it.
6. Natural Antacid:
Milk is a natural antacid. Consumption of milk and milk products helps to calm heartburn and inflammations. Gulp down a glass of cool milk to combat hyperacidity. It also protects from other gastritis and intestinal problems.
7. Good for Women Fertility:
Harvard University has discovered that women who drank 2 glasses of milk daily were less prone to have ovulation problems than those who did not.
8. Rebuilds Muscles:
Milk contains plenty of protein, around 9 grams per glass. It also contains all the eight essential amino acids. The proteins present in milk help to rebuild the muscles. Protein is also essential for proper functioning of antibodies, which can help to resist infection.
9. Aids in Weight Loss:
Contrary to popular belief, studies have revealed that women who drank low fat milk are likely to be slimmer than those who do not. Drinking two serving of low fat milk inhibits the hormone that causes the body to store fat. Consumption of milk as a part of low calorie diet leads to increased weight loss, particularly from the abdomen area. This wholesome beverage acts as an appetite suppressant by keeping the stomach full for longer time.
10. Lowers Diabetes Risk:
Regular consumption of milk can help reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes. This is primarily due to the combined effects of many beneficial nutrients found in milk including calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. Milk also has a low glycemic index, which controls blood sugar levels.
11. Natural Shield against Cancer:
Several studies have concluded that milk has a protective effect in both colon and breast cancers. People who drank 1.5 glasses of milk daily had 35% lower risk of the disease than those who did not consume. Daily consumption of milk also lowers the risk of developing breast cancer. The high amounts of calcium and Conjugated Linoleic Acid in the milk acts as protective components in colon cancer.
12. Keeps Stress Levels Low:
Drink a glass of milk to de-stress yourself at the end of the day. Drinking a glass of milk juts before bedtime soothes the frayed nerves and relaxes tense muscles, putting you off to sleep immediately. The magnesium and potassium content in the milk acts as vasodilators, increasing blood flow, and reducing the stress from the cardiovascular system. Milk also helps in reducing the symptoms associated with PMS significantly. Thus, drink a glass of after a tiresome and strenuous day at the office.
13. Boosts Cardiovascular Health:
Several studies have suggested that consuming three servings of milk a day, along with fruits and vegetables, can reduce high blood pressure, in both adults and children. The studies have also linked milk with a reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases. Regular consumption of milk lowers bad cholesterol and increases good cholesterol in the body. Milk is naturally low in sodium and contains high levels of potassium, which help to maintain healthy blood pressure.
14. Rehydrate with Milk:
Milk is an abundant source of water molecules, which is essential for hydrating every cell in the body. Along with hydrating, milk also provides essential nutrients to keep the body healthy. Rehydration after exercise is particularly important to replace the lost fluids. A glass of milk right after a strenuous workout will replenish the energy loss in minutes.
15. For Better Vision:
The high levels of Vitamin A and Vitamin B in milk can improve vision in an impressive way. Dip cotton balls in milk and apply it to the eyelids. The fat in milk will hydrate the parched skin, reducing swelling. That is why it is one of the most advised home remedies for dark circles.
You get different varieties of milk – whole, skimmed, toned, fat-free, calcium-enriched, to name a few. Pick the one that suits you the best. If you are not a great fan of drinking milk, then try whipping a glass of your favourite milkshake, sans sugar and raise a toast to your well-being. So start drinking milk right away to make sure that you are replete with its benefits.
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