Most of us have grown up with our mums chasing us with that glass of milk. And, of course, the tradition continues. Besides that, slogans like “Got Milk?” or celebrities sporting a milk moustache in ad films have always underlined the goodness of this powerhouse of nutrition. Let’s explore what makes milk exceptional and why you must include it in your kid’s daily diet.
Milk comes with hordes of health benefits, and the globe celebrates its goodness every year on June 1 as World Milk Day. The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations started observing the day in 2001 to raise awareness about the importance of milk and dairy products for health and nutrition.
Milk is for everyone:
Trivia: Milk is one of the most nutrient-dense and affordable foods available today. It’s rich with nine crucial nutrients, including niacin, riboflavin, calcium, potassium, and protein. It also has significant vitamins, including vitamin A, vitamin D, and vitamin B12.
Milk is a rich source of essential nutrients, especially protein, which supports growth, development, and immunity. If you think milk is only for young kids, you’re obviously wrong. It is essential for children who need adequate nutrition for their physical and mental well-being. However, having a glass of milk is a good idea for everyone, age no bar.
Just as breast milk or formula milk gives infants and toddlers the necessary energy and nutrients for growth and development, drinking milk ensures older kids grow with stronger bones and teeth. Not just that, milk also protects them against osteoporosis and dental caries later in life. Besides, milk also supports muscle growth, brain function, and hormonal balance during puberty.
The rich content of protein in the milk makes it good for you to:
How much milk should your child drink daily?
Trivia: The first milk bottle was invented more than 130 years ago in 1884.
The above fun-fact aside, here’s an interesting titbit — milk is composed of approximately 87 percent water and 13 percent solids. So, nutritional benefits of drinking milk every day aside, you’d also be helping them meet their fluid requirements and prevent dehydration.
Here’s the recommended quantity for your kids:
Unique ways to include milk consumption in the daily diet
Trivia: Nations that consume a good amount of milk have won more Nobel Prizes, says a 2013 study. With 31.855 rewards for every 10 million people, Sweden tops the list.
Does your kid make a fuss about drinking milk? Well, first of all, it’s normal behaviour. Some children may not like the taste of plain milk or may even be lactose intolerant or allergic, preventing them from drinking milk. There’s a way out for everyone. You can give your lactose-intolerant young ones calcium-fortified soy milk, almond milk or oat milk as alternatives to cow or buffalo milk.
As for the fussy little ones, try some unique ways, such as: