Milk
Background
Humans have been drinking animal milk for thousands of years. Over time, we have commercialized milk production to make it safe and large-scale. Today, there is a variety of milk available including skim milk, 1%, 2%, whole milk, lactose free milk and a variety of non-dairy milk alternative beverages! Goats milk is also widely available, though the most common type of milk consumed is cow’s milk.
Benefits
- A great source of calcium, the nutrient it is most known for! Calcium is needed for strong bones, muscles, and other important roles like generating your heartbeat.
- A source of phosphorous, which is an important micronutrient used in bones, teeth, and general growth and development.
- A great source of potassium, which is crucial to your nervous systems, muscle function, blood pressure and more.
- An excellent source of Vitamin D! Vitamin D helps strengthen our immune system and is needed for proper absorption of calcium.
Nutritional Value of 1 cup (250 ml) of 1% Milk
- 110 calories
- 13.0 g carbohydrates
- 0 g fibre
- 9.0 g protein
- 2.5 g fat
- 31% DV calcium
- 17% DV Vitamin D
Did You Know
Vitamin D is one of the most common nutrients for Canadians to be deficient in. In Canada, all cow’s milk is required to be fortified with Vitamin D as an easy way for Canadians to get an excellent source of this nutrient. Some non-dairy beverages like soy milk must also be fortified with Vitamin D to be considered a milk alternative.
Recipes
