The white magic called milk

What we used to hate the most in childhood actually turns out is the most beneficial drink of all time – milk. We used to run away from that one glass of milk that our mothers used to chase us with, not realising how healthy it will make our body.

Milk is an important part of our diet, although the intake decreases when we grow up. Some people don’t like the taste and some also think that they no longer need it. But one must not forget the rewards of drinking milk. It is a great source of vitamins and nutrients and has several health benefits.

There are several varieties of milk available in the market that one can enjoy with their morning meal, including cow’s milk, soya milk, coconut milk, almond milk, rice milk and flavoured milk too. Sunita Roy Chowdhury, senior dietician with Rockland Hospitals shares some few benefits of milk.

Pasteurised milk: Pasteurised milk is an excellent source of protein, calcium and Vitamin D. Pasteurisation helps in killing all the bacteria present in milk.

Soya milk: It is made from the extract of soya beans. Soya milk is naturally low in saturated fat and is cholesterol-free and high in protein too. It is thicker than cow’s milk but safe for those who suffer from dairy product allergies or who are lactose-intolerant. Soya milk can be used in coffee, can be made as curd and paneer too.
Almond milk: An expensive buy which cannot be afforded by all, almond milk is high in vitamin E and can be used in different desserts, rice cooking and in various gravies too. Almond milk is free of saturated fat, cholesterol and lactose.

Coconut milk: Unlike other kinds, coconut milk cannot be consumed like regular cow milk but is very commonly used down South, in the Konkan region, Maharashtra. It is usually an important ingredient for thickening gravies and has a very typical taste. Coconut milk is rich in medium chain triglycerides which help in digestion. It is also the kind of milk that provides no load on the digestive system.

Rice milk: Also referred to starch and regular intake is not good for health. It is good for those who are suffering from diarrhoea. Just mix it with lemon and salt and it will give the required amount of nutrients.  Looks like there is no need to shy away from milk after all!