Milk

Milk is a pale liquid produced by the mammary glands of mammals. It is the primary source of nutrition for infant mammals including humans who breastfeed before they are able to digest other types of food. Early lactation milk contains colostrums which carries the mother's antibodies to its young and can reduce the risk of many diseases. It contains many other nutrients including protein and lactose. Milk contains protein’ calcium’ phosphorus’ potassium’ sodium’ iodine’ vitamins A and D amongst others lactose milk sugar and riboflavin. The basic types of milk come in three varieties Whole milk 3.5 percent fat contains the full amount of fat given when the milk is taken from the cow. Low fat milk 1.5 - 1.8 percent fat maintains most of the virtues of whole milk, with most of the fat removed. Nonfat or skim milk 0.3 percent contains only a small track of fat yet remains highly nutritious. Milk is good for the bones because it offers a rich source of calcium, a mineral essential for healthy bones and teeth. Cow's milk is fortified with vitamin D which also benefits bone health. Calcium and vitamin D help prevent osteoporosis. Cleopatra took milk baths to help her skin stay soft supple and glowing. You can do the same or you can drink a few glasses of whole milk each day to get its benefits. Milk has several nutrients which help skin look its best. It has lactic acid which can act as an exfoliant and enzymes to help smooth skin. It also has amino acids that help keep skin moisturized. Milk can help prevent damage from environmental toxins because it has antioxidants. However if you have a sensitivity to milk or dairy products, milk can actually aggravate your skin. Milk is a great source of calcium which is essential for healthy bones. Not only do young children need it while their bones are growing but adults need it to keep their bones strong and to prevent osteoporosis. Milk is also great for strong teeth and it helps prevent tooth decay and cavities. In order for the calcium to be absorbed by the body vitamin D must be present. If you have a vitamin D deficiency buy milk that is fortified with extra vitamin D to ensure that your body absorbs the calcium. Milk contains protein which helps to rebuild muscles. Drink a glass of milk after you exercise to give your body what it needs to recover. It will help to keep soreness at bay while replenishing fluids that you lost during your workout. Studies show that women who drink low fat or skim milk lose more weight than those who exclude milk from their diet. It is a great appetizer and it makes a healthy snack. Add a glass to your dinner, or drink a glass while eating a piece of fruit. Milk is a great way to de-stress at the end of the day. A glass of warm milk will help to relax tense muscles and soothe frayed nerves. Milk has also been proven to reduce symptoms of PMS and boost energy. The next time you are feeling frazzled try drinking a glass of milk while you soak in a bubble bath. Milk has properties that lower high blood pressure and risk of strokes. It reduces the liver's production of cholesterol and it can act as an antacid. Vitamins A and B in milk can help build good eyesight. Milk has also been show to help lower risk of certain cancers. There are several varieties of milk on the market, such as whole 2%, low-fat and fat free. If you are concerned about the growth hormones used in milk, choose to go the organic route. With all of the types of milk available you should be able to find something that fits your diet and nutritional needs. We know that warm milk helps get a good night’s sleep and is a powerful natural remedy to relieve cough and cold. What is unknown to many are the several health and beauty benefits of cold milk. Sipping cold milk can provide instant relief from acidity. Applying cold milk can also immensely improve the texture of your skin. Here are ways you can incorporate cold milk in your daily diet and beauty regime. Milk contains the right quantity of fat and moisture that can soothe your skin. Below are a few home remedies with cold milk.