Dairy products such as milk, cheese and yogurt are important dietary sources of essential vitamins and minerals. Dairy products can be eaten alone or can enhance the flavor of other foods. According to Dr. Jonny Bowden, dairy products are essential for recovering from certain diseases and maintaining good health. Consuming dairy products in a well-balanced diet promotes digestion and strengthens the immune system. Consult with your doctor before increasing your intake of dairy.
Benefits of Calcium
Low-fat and nonfat dairy products supply the body with the mineral calcium. It is vital to consume adequate amounts of calcium in childhood and continue to do so into adulthood. Calcium plays an important role in building strong and healthy bones. Calcium prevents the loss of bone mass and the resulting weakening of bones common in the disease osteoporosis. According to the University of California at Berkeley, dairy products also contain lactose and vitamin D, which enhances the absorption of calcium.
Function of Protein
Low-fat and nonfat versions of dairy products are sources of high-quality protein. The maintenance and health of your muscles, organs, hormones and enzymes requires a significant amount of protein. Proteins are composed of amino acids that you require for growth and all bodily functions. Dairy products from animal sources are considered complete proteins. Complete proteins supply the body with all nine essential amino acids.
Benefits of Conjugated Linoleic Acid
Cheese offers a wide variety of nutrients such as calcium, magnesium, zinc, selenium, folate and vitamins A and D. Cheese from grass-fed cows is rich in conjugated linoleic acid. According to the University of California at Berkeley, conjugated linoleic acid helps fight cancer and burns fat. Try including cottage, ricotta, cheddar, Swiss, Parmesan, Pecorino, Neufchatel, brie and feta cheese into your diet.
Benefits of Probiotics
Yogurt is a dairy product fermented from milk. The fermentation process transforms lactose into lactic acid, which gives yogurt its texture and taste. Yogurt is rich in enzymes and healthy bacteria. Yogurt is an excellent source of bacteria such as bulgaricus and lactobacillus acidophilus. In "SuperFoods Health Style," Steven Pratt says the live cultures in yogurt support and improve the immune and digestive systems. The bacteria controls inflammation, which is a cause of heart disease.
Considerations
Choose raw, organic, unpasteurized and non-homogenized dairy products from grass-fed cows. These dairy products do not contain any added antibiotics, steroids and hormones. According to Dr. Jonny Bowden, dairy products that are pasteurized and homogenized destroy beneficial enzymes, proteins, vitamins and healthy bacteria. The lack of nutrients increases your chance of prostate and ovarian cancer.
References
- "The 150 Healthiest Foods on Earth"; Jonny Bowden, Ph.D.,C.N.S.; 2007
- "SuperFoods Health Style"; Steven Pratt M.D. and Kathy Matthews; 2006
- "The Wellness Encyclopedia of Food and Nutrition"; The University of California at Berkeley; 1992
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