YES

by Brennen Kerns

“Milk is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, including ‘nutrients of concern,’ which are under-consumed by many populations,” Jillian Kubala MS, RD, said in an article for Healthline. It has been debated in the medical world how much milk we truly should drink, or, if we should drink it at all.

Here are some nutrients facts: One glass of whole milk contains 28% of our RDA (Recommended Daily Allowance) for calcium, 24% of our Vitamin D RDA, and eight grams of protein. That is just a fraction of the health benefits. Milk has been associated with good health for a long time. There is no doubt milk provides crucial nutrition.  Cows, goats, and sheep are among the popular livestock used in North America and Europe, according to Jillian Kubala MS, RD. 

Additionally, an article published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition that included over 28 different studies across seven countries, reported that milk had health benefits. “Children and teens who drank whole milk compared to kids who consumed reduced-fat milk were less likely to be overweight or obese,” according to St. Michael’s Hospital of Unity Health Toronto.  Milk can reduce the risk of obesity in children and is a source of 9 essentials nutrients.

In addition, strong and healthy bones can be the effect of proper milk consumption.

“A healthy diet for bone health should include both calcium and vitamin D, as the calcium helps to strengthen bones and vitamin D aids in the absorption of calcium,”  according to experts at dentalassociatesnova.com. 

Milk comes in a variety of forms—some healthier than others, but they are all incorporated in many aspects of our diets. Many forms of desserts include shakes, malts, and sundaes. A wide variety of dinners, sauces, flavorings like buttermilk chicken or pancakes are a great example of milk’s contribution to the food industry. Not only is milk’s nutritional value crucial, it’s also delicious in so many varieties.