Milk: A Wonder Drink

Abstract

Background: Milk is a highly nutritious white liquid food produced by the mammary glands of mammals. For some time, cow’s milk has been related with great wellbeing, making it one of the most expended refreshments all through the United States and Europe. A huge variety of food products known as dairy products are made from cow's milk, such as cheese, cream, butter, and yogurt. Methods: Literature was screened to study the benefits and harmful effects of milk consumption. Results: Milk is good for the bones because it offers a rich source of calcium. Cow's milk is a wellspring of potassium, which can increase vasodilation and decrease blood pressure. Milk consumption has been shown to have beneficial effects in diabetes because consumption of dairy foods is associated with improved insulin resistance. Milk has been known to have a beneficial effect for chronic diseases such as cancer with a specific mention to colonic cancer. Studies have shown that milk consumption effectively improves depression and is helpful in muscle building. Lactose intolerance, milk hypersensitivity, constipation and cancer of prostate and breast are causes of concern associated with milk consumption. Conclusion: Breast milk is the best choice of milk for infants less than 1 year. The American academy of paediatrics does not recommend cow's milk for infants less than 1 year of age because cow's milk is low in iron compared with human breast milk. Introducing cow's milk too early may predispose them to a lactose allergy in future. 400ml per day is the recommended milk consumption and it provides a package of essential nutrients that are difficult to obtain in low-dairy or dairy-free diets and should be included as part of a healthy balanced diet. Yogurt and hard cheese are well tolerated and provide the nutritional benefits of dairy products in individuals with lactose intolerance.