Milk is a dairy product that provides essential nutrients in the diet. Whole milk is usually avoided by dieters because of its fatty properties, but skim milk is available for those watching their weight, and it contains many of the essential nutrients beneficial for good health.
Significance
Milk has been a part of the human diet for centuries. It contains many of the vitamins and nutrients essential for a healthy body. For instance, milk contains vitamin D, which is important for healthy bones, and calcium, which works with vitamin D to strengthen bones.
History
Pasteurization of milk is a part of history. Pasteurization was invented by Louis Pasteur, who created heating methods to rid milk products of harmful microbes, including tuberculosis bacteria and salmonella. Consumers should avoid drinking raw cow's milk that has not been pasteurized. Milk found in grocery stores has been pasteurized and is safe for human consumption.
Source
Milk products usually come from cows. However, milk can also be extracted from goats.
Warning
Some people are allergic to milk. Lactose-intolerant people are unable to properly metabolize milk products, and they should purchase alternatives to any dairy products.
Substitutes
Those who can't drink milk can find calcium elsewhere. Good, non-dairy sources of calcium include collard greens, bok choy, fortified soy milk, baked beans and vitamin supplements.
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