Dairy products include milk and anything made with milk. This milk can be from a mammal, such as cow, coat, and buffalo. A processing process is involved to improve the shelf life of the products, and the process is called a dairy factory.
Some of the commonly consumed dairy products include the following:
- Milk
- Cottage cheese (Paneer)
- Cheese (such as – Mozzarella, Cheddar, Feta, etc.)
- buttermilk
- Cream
- Yogurt
- Butter
- Condensed milk
- Sour cream
- Ice cream, and others.
There is a lot of debate about whether or not to include
dairy products in daily food or not? Nutritionists suggest that these products are a rich source of calcium and protein. But, remember not to include ice cream as rich in these nutrients. Milk derivatives also provide a series of vitamins and minerals that constitute a good reason to include these food products in the daily diet.
- protein: Necessary for body growth and cell/tissue repair.
- Iodine: It is needed by the thyroid gland and helps regulate the rate of metabolism.
- Vitamin A: needed to maintain good eyesight and a healthy immune system.
- B12 vitamin: necessary for the production of healthy cells.
- Vitamin C: Helps in the formation of healthy connective tissues.
- Calcium: Necessary for normal bone growth and strength.
- Phosphorous: necessary for the release of energy.
- Magnesium: necessary to facilitate normal muscle function.
- Riboflavin: necessary for healthier skin.
Dairy products are essential for maintaining good bone health
These products are rich in calcium, which is necessary to facilitate bone growth and development. During childhood, when the process of bone development is at its peak, it is very important to include it in the children’s diet. For the same reason, it is also essential for expectant mothers. Early and adequate calcium intake helps prevent bone problems such as osteoporosis. For older people, maintaining healthy bone is critical. Calcium from dairy sources is much healthier and better than those taken in supplement form. Therefore, including dairy products in the diet of all age groups is essential.
Dairy products do not promote obesity
A healthy, well-balanced diet does not promote obesity. A healthy diet is incomplete without a full glass of milk. It is simply a mistake to think that regular intake of dairy products can lead to obesity and fat deposition. However, some studies have found that including milk in the diet is essential for healthy eating and does not promote obesity. The key is to eat everything in moderation. Milk is not high in fat: whole milk is about 4% fat, semi-skimmed milk is 1.7%, and skimmed milk is about 0.3% fat. Cheese can contain a lot of fat, but when eaten in moderation, it can be a rich source of protein and calcium.
Fortified dairy products
Today, technology has made it possible to offer milk, yogurt and other dairy products in packages fortified with vitamin D. Vitamin D aids in the absorption of calcium and makes dairy products much healthier to eat. Calorie-conscious people can make good use of low-fat products and enjoy a balanced diet.