Dairy Product Facts

Whether you like a cold glass of milk, a hot chocolate, a flavorful cheese or a plain or fruity yogurt, dairy should be part of everyone's life. With the consumption of low fat dairy comes a variety of goodness. Dairy product facts speak for themselves.

Benefits of dairy

Dairy products have important nutrients that benefit your body.

• Calcium helps to build and maintain strong bones, teeth and nails.
• Phosphorus also keeps bones strong and aids energy levels.
• Protein for growth and development, strong muscles and general maintenance of the body.
• Vitamin B12 for the production of red blood cells and the nerve system.
• Vitamin B2, also known as riboflavin, for healthy, glowing skin

Milk facts

Milk comes in different forms according to the fat content.

• In addition to calcium, carbohydrates, protein and fats, milk contains: vitamin B1, B2, B6, B12, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus and zinc.
• The fat content of whole milk is 4 percent, standard milk comes in a little lower with 3.5 percent, semi skimmed milk drops to 1.7 percent, while skimmed milk contains only 0.1 percent.
• The calcium content remains unaffected when fat content is lowered.
• Low fat milk is unsuitable for young children because it contains fewer fat soluble vitamins.
• Milk should always be pasteurized to eliminate diseases such as tuberculosis, gastro-enteritis and Malta fever, among others.

Cheese and yogurt facts

Cheese and yogurt are made from milk.

• It takes 2.6 gallons of milk to make two pounds of cheese.
• Making cheese is a complex process that combines chemical engineering, theology, flavor chemistry, molecular genetics, enzymology and microbiology.
• There are over 1,000 different types of cheeses in the world, 400 of which are manufactured in France.
• Even though cheese is a diary product, because of the way it's made, even people who are lactose intolerant can eat it.
• The same goes for yogurt because live bacteria are added to the milk for yogurt production.
• Yogurt stays fresh for up to seven days after the tub is opened. When buying yogurt after the expiration date, check how the substance looks and smells. When in doubt, throw it out.

Calcium

Studies have shown that eating low fat dairy can help reduce the risk of osteoporosis, high blood pressure, better weight management and certain types of cancers. Calcium is also needed to ensure a normal heartbeat and for the contraction and relaxation of muscles. In addition calcium helps the nervous system, stabilizes blood pressure and strengthens the immunity system.

Protein

Dairy is a good source of quality protein and amino acids. Amino acids tryptophan converts to niacin, which is a vitamin and helps the body convert carbohydrates and fats into protein metabolism and energy. Tryptophan is also a precursor of serotonin, which is a mood controller and can help you to fall asleep.

Low fat dairy products are packed with powerful nutrients and should be a part of a healthy, daily diet.