Tuesday, April 12, 2011

Milk - It does a body good

In an effort to avoid confusion and shed some more light on the milk debate. I recently posted on my new favorite soy milk. I wanted to make sure I did not persuade anyone to milk alternatives when traditional milk is a better option. Milk is terrific for children. It becomes less necessary as we age. So many people these days have milk or dairy issues and it is wonderful to know there are other great options out there.

Your best bet when buying milk is to buy Organic. Organic milk is defined by the USDA as milk from cows that have been exclusively fed organic feed, have not been treated with synthetic hormones, and have adequate land to roam. If you want organic milk, you may be much more likely to get the real thing at the farmer's market. Better yet, a great outing with the family is a field trip to your local farm.

Drink it raw, if you can. Raw organic milk from grass-fed cows is the best tasting and by far the healthiest option for most people, but it may not always be available or safe. The key to getting safe raw milk is that it must come from a trusted source: cows must be grass-fed and the collection process must be clean. To find a raw milk supplier near you, visit www.realmilk.com.

Consider goat milk. There are arguments that goat's milk is easier to digest and that it causes fewer allergies. Additionally, some studies claim increased levels of essential fatty acids, antioxidants and vitamins, as well as better bioavailability of iron.

Remember that soy milk is not milk. Soy, almond and cashew milks can be healthy, delicious beverages. They contain lots of vitamins and health benefits. Do your research and listen to your body as to what option in best for you!

1 comment:

  1. Thanks for this, Mindy! And soy milk and almond milk can have WHOPPING amounts of sugar, so make sure to get unsweetened. Milk is such a personal decision...I've started drinking/eating dairy again but I'm gonna cut it out again, I think.

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