Milk beneficial properties and contraindications. What are the benefits of dairy products? Cow's milk is harmful to humans

Milk is a unique natural product that a person becomes familiar with from the first hours of life, receiving mother’s milk.

At an older age, milk becomes a frequently consumed product for many children and adults. Everyone is familiar with the types of milk: cow, goat, camel, mare, deer, etc. But there is also milk of plant origin: coconut, soy, rice...

Let's try to understand and clarify the data on the benefits and harms of milk.

The benefits and harms of cow's milk

Since childhood, we all hear about the health benefits of cow's milk. And a number of arguments are given for this. Recently, more and more material has appeared with facts about the dangers of cow's milk. Let's try to analyze what prevails: benefit or harm?
1. Milk contains a lot of calcium. But this calcium is not absorbed by the body. Milk protein (casein) significantly increases the acidity of gastric contents. The enzyme for breaking down casein ceases to be produced from about 10 years of age, and the body uses calcium to neutralize the acid. There is not enough calcium in milk, so the body extracts calcium from the bones. Therefore, drinking milk not only does not prevent osteoporosis (loss of bone tissue due to loss of minerals, including calcium), but contributes to its development. This is confirmed by statistics: in countries with low milk consumption, the percentage of patients with osteoporosis is much lower than in countries with high milk consumption.
2. It is believed that the benefits of milk are improved digestion. But milk increases the acidity of gastric juice, and thereby creates the threat of erosions and ulcers.
3. Commercials try to convince people that drinking milk is good for the body. But the body itself convinces us of the opposite: milk is poison for it. After all, the body gets rid of poisons through secretions: saliva, sweat, phlegm, nasal discharge. People who drink milk may notice excessive sweating, phlegm buildup, and nasal congestion in the morning. If you don't consume dairy products for a week, all this goes away.
4. Many studies confirm that milk is the cause of some types of cancer (breast, prostate, testicular cancer). Some scientists attribute this to the carcinogenic properties of milk sugar or lactose. And others - the influence of the hormone estrogen contained in milk. After all, many cows whose milk is used in the dairy industry are pregnant. In addition, many cows develop leukemia (blood cancer).
5. Even according to official statistics, 5% of cows have mastitis, which means pus gets into the milk. Drinking milk with pus cannot be beneficial.
6. The content of growth hormone in cow's milk is significantly higher than in women's breast milk. In addition, dairy producers often use the introduction of hormonal drugs to cows to increase the size of the udder and increase milk yield. Growth hormone in adults, and especially in older people, can also cause cancer.
7. Some cows are given antibiotics for therapeutic purposes, which also end up in the milk. The consumption of such milk contributes to a decrease in immunity and the development of resistance to antibiotics.
8. The calming effect of milk is explained by the action of opiates, which are formed from the milk protein casein during digestion.
9. In the human body, with age, the production of the enzyme lactase, necessary for the absorption of milk sugar, or lactose, gradually decreases. This is what causes milk intolerance, which is characterized by abdominal pain, bloating and diarrhea.
10. The statement that lactose promotes the development of lactobacilli in the intestines, which prevent putrefactive processes, is also not entirely true. Unprocessed lactose serves as a breeding ground for putrefactive bacteria rather than fighting them.
11. Milk proteins can cause an allergic reaction to milk. Milk is a fairly strong allergen. This allergy can manifest itself as skin rashes, itchy skin, difficulty breathing, sore throat, swelling of the eyelids and lips, and nasal congestion.
12. The benefits of drinking milk for colds are questionable, since milk increases the production of mucus from the nose, i.e. further aggravates the patient's discomfort.

Preservatives added to milk, or “aseptic packaging” (impregnated with disinfectants or antibiotics) for long-term storage of milk also cause significant harm to the body.

From what is written above, it is clear that for an adult, milk is more harmful than a useful product. However, everyone must decide for themselves: to drink milk or give it up.

The benefits and harms of goat milk

Goat milk is a healthy food product for adults and children.

Goat's milk contains more calcium than cow's milk, therefore it helps strengthen hair and nails; protects teeth from destruction. It is goat's milk that should be drunk for bone fractures. Calcium is also necessary for nursing mothers to ensure good lactation. Goat milk contains an abundance of manganese, iodine, phosphorus, molybdenum, copper, fluorine, sodium, magnesium, potassium, and these trace elements are important for the nervous system, cardiovascular system, and thyroid gland. And although there is less iron than in cow's milk, goat's milk is better absorbed, and the body receives a sufficient amount of iron.

Goat milk increases performance and improves memory. It is recommended to drink it for depression, neuroses, stressful situations, and insomnia.

Lysozyme, which is part of goat milk, reduces the content of hydrochloric acid in the stomach, so it is recommended for use for stomach ulcers and frequent heartburn.

When consuming goat's milk, favorable soil is created for the development of normal microflora in the intestines - it has a positive effect in cases of dysbacteriosis and immunodeficiency.

Goat milk does not contain the protein fraction that is found in cow milk and causes allergies, so goat milk can be consumed without any fear even by allergy sufferers.

It also contains cobalt, which is part of vitamin B 12, and the vitamin is involved in hematopoiesis and metabolism - which means goat milk protects against anemia (anemia).

Those who consume goat's milk are not at risk of vitamin deficiency - after all, it contains a whole arsenal of vitamins: A, B1, B2, B3, B6, B9, B12, C, D, E, H, PP. It helps the body recover after surgery and illnesses.

The therapeutic effect of milk is also obtained for colds and bronchitis.

People who constantly eat fast food should include goat's milk in their diet to normalize digestion and prevent gastritis and peptic ulcers.

Goat milk has virtually no harm to the body. Goat's milk should be consumed with caution in case of blood thickening (it increases hemoglobin) and in case of pancreatitis (a disease of the pancreas) - its fat content is 4.4%, and these fats can aggravate the process. The fats contained in milk are completely absorbed in the body, so you should refrain from consuming it if you are overweight.

Some people report intolerance to goat's milk, but this is most often due to the smell or taste of the milk. However, both taste and smell depend on the feed and conditions of keeping and caring for the goat. Under good conditions for keeping a goat, its milk does not have any specific smell or taste.

It is most effective to consume fresh milk, but without heat treatment it can only be drunk when you are sure that the goat is healthy and kept in good conditions.

Goat's milk stays fresh at room temperature for 3 days, and in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.

The benefits of goat's milk, its advantages in comparison with cow's milk, how to choose the right one, whether it needs to be boiled before drinking - video

The benefits of milk for children

Breast milk

Breast milk is the best type of feeding for a newborn baby, because it allows the baby to adapt to life outside the womb.

Modern pediatrics recommends breastfeeding at least until 6 months of age as the only type of food, and from 6 months to one year, breastfeeding is maintained with the introduction of complementary foods in accordance with the child’s age. After one year, you can breastfeed your baby for as long as the baby wants, but breast milk will only supplement adequate, age-appropriate nutrition. WHO (World Health Organization) recommends breastfeeding your baby for at least 2 years.

The benefits of breastfeeding are obvious, proven by many years of experience and scientific research:

It protects the child from infections, because... breast milk contains antibodies to some pathogens of infectious diseases, special protective cells (macrophages, lymphocytes), interferon (protective protein against viruses) and lysozyme (an enzyme that destroys bacterial cells). In addition, mother's milk is a pure product, free of germs.
The acidic reaction of breast milk is favorable for the growth of lactobacilli (beneficial microorganisms) in the baby's intestines.
There is less mortality among breastfed infants.
Breast milk stimulates the development of all senses in the baby.
Breast milk contains less microelements (potassium, sodium, chlorine) compared to milk of animal origin, and this makes it easier to create homeostasis (maintaining a constant environment in the body).

Breastfeeding is prohibited if the mother is HIV-infected, is a carrier of the hepatitis B virus, or is receiving opiates or certain medications (check with your doctor).

Cow's milk

If you compare cow's milk and mother's milk, the difference in the content of calcium and phosphorus draws attention: calcium in cow's milk is 120 mg, and in women's milk - 25 mg, phosphorus, respectively, 95 mg and 13 mg. This means that with cow’s milk, almost 6 times more calcium and phosphorus than required enter the baby’s intestines. Most calcium is excreted from the body in feces. But much more phosphorus is absorbed from the intestines than the child’s body needs. A child’s kidneys cannot remove “extra” phosphorus without calcium. This means that the baby does not receive calcium from cow's milk, but excretes it. Therefore, no matter how much vitamin D is given to a child fed cow's milk, he will develop rickets.

After a year, the kidneys begin to “ripen”, electrolyte metabolism improves, and cow’s milk ceases to be a dangerous product.

Therefore, if breastfeeding is not possible for any reason, then it is preferable to give the baby formula rather than milk of animal origin.

Cow's milk can be given to a child after 3 years of age, when he still has a sufficient amount of the lactase enzyme in his body to digest it, to break down the milk sugar (lactose) contained in milk. With age, lactase activity decreases, and after 15 years it is practically absent.

In addition, it is to lactose in cow's milk that children often develop allergies.

Goat milk

Goat's milk is closest in composition to mother's milk. The protein and fat molecules in it are smaller than in cow milk, so it is absorbed faster. Proteins are mainly beta-casein (as in breast milk). It contains practically no lactose, so it does not cause allergies in children.

Despite this, if breastfeeding is not possible, it is not recommended to replace it with goat milk due to the high fat content of the milk. Infants do not yet produce lipase (an enzyme that breaks down fats).

Is milk good or bad for men?

Not only children, but also adults love to drink milk. Many men drink it in large quantities, especially those who lead an active lifestyle.

Recently, data have emerged on some aspects of the harmful effects of milk on the body of men.

For example, the higher the fat content of the milk, the more cholesterol it contains, which forms cholesterol plaques in the vessels that impede the blood supply to the organs. Atherosclerosis developed in this way leads to stroke, myocardial infarction and impotence. In this regard, after 40 years of age, it is better for men to consume skim milk.

Many studies confirm the connection between milk consumption and the incidence of prostate and testicular cancer. Some scientists explain this by saying that the milk protein casein and the milk sugar lactose are carcinogenic (the ability to cause cancer). Other scientists link cancer to exposure to hormones in cow's milk. Hormones get into milk, firstly, due to the fact that producers administer hormonal drugs to cows to increase milk yield, and secondly, milk from pregnant cows is used.

These data are confirmed by statistics: in countries where milk consumption has increased, the incidence of cancer increases proportionately.

It’s not just cow’s milk that has an adverse effect on the male body. Consuming large amounts of soy milk causes signs of feminization in men (the appearance of features characteristic of the female body). Soy milk helps reduce sperm concentration in men.

Coconut milk has no contraindications for consumption by men, except for intolerance to the coconut itself and intolerance to fructose. Apparently, this is the only thing men should drink. Especially after 40 years.

The benefits and harms of baked milk

Baked (or stewed) milk has been prepared from whole milk for a long time. To do this, milk is first boiled and then simmered for a long time at a temperature slightly below 100 o C. At the same time, the milk acquires a pleasant aroma, creamy color, and a crispy, tasty crust forms on the surface. After cooling, the milk can be consumed.

You can buy baked milk in the store, or you can make it yourself. You can cook it in the oven, in a slow cooker, and even in a saucepan on the stove.

Baked milk can not only be drunk, but also used in culinary recipes. You can make fermented baked milk based on baked milk. Porridges, soups and jelly cooked with baked milk acquire an unusual pleasant aroma. To get a delicious cocktail, you can mix baked milk with fruit juices.

Baked milk contains all the same substances as whole pasteurized or fresh milk: microelements (calcium, phosphorus, iron, sodium, potassium, magnesium and others), proteins, lactose, vitamins (A, B, C, E, D, PP and beta-carotene). Vitamin C, however, is destroyed during heat treatment, and very little of it remains. When simmering in milk, the amount of water decreases significantly, but the content of fat (up to 6%), calcium, iron and vitamin A increases.

Proponents of the beneficial effects of milk on the body recommend consuming baked milk for children, pregnant women, the elderly, people with diseases of the cardiovascular system, intestines, and diabetes. They consider baked milk a source of microelements, proteins and vitamins.

Baked milk is an easily digestible, high-calorie product. The calorie content of baked milk is 67-84 kcal per 100 g, it is absorbed better than boiled or steamed milk. It can satisfy hunger. You can get a lower-calorie drink if you make it from skim milk.

Baked milk is contraindicated only for persons with lactose intolerance and allergy to milk.

Powdered milk - benefits and harms

Powdered milk is obtained by condensing and then drying fresh cow's milk in special apparatus. For use, the powder is diluted in warm water (ratio 1: 3).

Powdered milk is in great demand in winter in those areas where whole fresh milk is supplied in insufficient quantities.

Today, manufacturers prepare whole milk powder, instant milk and skim milk powder.

Whole milk powder contains 26% protein, 25% fat, 37% lactose, 10% minerals, 4% moisture; its calorie content is 549.3 kcal.

Skimmed milk powder contains 36% protein, 1% fat, 52% lactose, 6% minerals, 5% moisture; its calorie content is 373 kcal.

It has been analytically proven that the difference between whole fresh milk and milk prepared from dry powder is insignificant. It contains the same vitamin composition and the same microelements. Powdered milk contains 20 essential amino acids. The amount of cholesterol in dry and fresh milk is approximately the same. 100 g of milk prepared from dry powder covers the daily requirement of vitamin B 12, so it is recommended to use it for anemia (anemia).

Some scientists recommend drinking reconstituted milk (made from powdered milk) in the morning or evening, without eating other foods. You can add honey, sugar, cardamom, fennel to reconstituted milk - this will have a beneficial effect on the nervous system. It can be used to prepare confectionery and bakery products.

Powdered milk can only cause harm to people with lactase deficiency in the body.

Milk prepared in violation of technological standards for its production will also cause significant harm. Some manufacturers add low-quality vegetable fat rather than milk fat; This disorder can only be detected in the laboratory. Therefore, when purchasing, preference should be given to brands from well-known large manufacturers.

Condensed milk - benefits and harms

This sweet delicacy is probably known to everyone. Condensed milk is prepared from cow's whole fresh milk by heat treatment.

100 g of this high-calorie product contains saturated fatty acids (8.5 g), proteins (7.2 g), carbohydrates (56 g), vitamins important for the body (B 2, B 3, B 6, B 9, PP , B 12, E) and trace elements (phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, calcium, sodium, sulfur, etc.).

When preparing condensed milk, a temperature of 60 o C is used, which allows you to preserve the maximum amount of microelements and vitamins contained in whole milk. The beneficial properties of vitamins and microelements are preserved throughout the year. Therefore, condensed milk can replace whole fresh milk and provide the body with the necessary nutrients.

The calorie content of condensed milk is 328 kcal per 100 g of product. Compared to whole milk, condensed milk is not only higher in calories, but also easier to digest.

Therefore, diabetics and overweight individuals should avoid its use. By eating 1 can of condensed milk, you can get 1200 calories, but nutritionists advise those who intend to lose weight to gain no more than 1400 calories per day. Therefore, it is recommended to consume only 1-2 tsp. condensed milk per day, using it instead of sugar.

Condensed milk is added to ice cream, cakes, pastries, cookies and candies. It can also be added to coffee and tea.

Proponents of the positive effect of milk on the body recommend consuming 1-2 tablespoons of condensed milk, supposedly to strengthen the immune system. In their opinion, the vitamins and minerals contained in milk contribute to a faster recovery of strength after physical and mental stress.

Nowadays, manufacturers often, unfortunately, violate production technology, deviate from GOST, add cheap vegetable oil, dyes, preservatives, sweeteners to condensed milk, or use powdered milk for preparation. Sugar substitutes and a dye (titanium dioxide E 171), which is commonly used in the manufacture of rubber, paper and varnishes, can be used.

Of course, such surrogates can cause significant harm to the body, rather than benefit. The name on the label should only be: “Whole condensed milk with sugar” and contain 34% protein and 8.5% fat. Any deviations in the name and composition indicate that it is a surrogate.

Therefore, when purchasing condensed milk, you need to carefully study the label.

Tea and coffee with milk - healthy or not?

The British have a well-known tradition of drinking tea with milk. Many people in other countries love this tasty and high-calorie drink. There are also people who like to drink coffee only with the addition of milk.

Scientists also have different opinions about the benefits and harms of these delicious drinks for the body.

Some researchers believe that only milk can neutralize the stimulating effect of caffeine contained in tea and coffee on the cardiovascular system. And they emphasize that this is especially important for people who drink tea and coffee in large quantities. This is also important for people with high blood pressure who find it difficult to give up drinking coffee - they can try drinking it with milk. Caffeine helps flush calcium out of the body. This means that less calcium will be washed out when drinking tea (coffee) with milk, which is important for older people.

The advantage of coffee with skim milk (no sugar) can be seen in the fact that it can be consumed when trying to lose weight. After all, the energy value of 50 ml of skim milk will give only 13-16 kcal! The drink will make your diet more enjoyable.

German scientists, on the contrary, argue that tea with milk not only does not benefit the body, but only causes harm. Milk in this drink sharply reduces (by 80%) the amount of antioxidants. And, as you know, antioxidants help remove toxins from the body and prevent cancer and cardiovascular diseases. This means that it is milk that turns tea from a healing drink into a harmful one.

Opponents of the German scientists dispute their conclusions, based on the fact that only 16 people participated in the study, i.e. research is not reliable.

However, there are other facts. The animal protein casein contained in milk decomposes at high tea temperatures, and the drink loses some of its beneficial properties. And if the tea is green, then the milk protein combines with theaflamin and forms a substance that is difficult to digest. The fats contained in milk dissolve faster at the high temperature of tea and are absorbed faster.

The neutralizing effect of milk on caffeine deprives tea (and coffee) of the vasodilating effect on blood vessels. The expected invigorating effect of another cup of tea (coffee) also disappears. In addition, coffee tannin, when combined with milk proteins, forms a substance that has a harmful effect on the liver. People with lactase intolerance and people with an allergic reaction to milk or coffee should avoid drinking such drinks.

Scientists continue to study the benefits and harms of these drinks. In the meantime, generally healthy people can afford to use them.

The benefits of milk with honey

Many people, on their own or on the recommendation of a doctor, use honey with milk for colds and coughs (1 tablespoon of honey per glass of warm milk). If a cold is accompanied by a rise in temperature, then they try to use linden honey. Only the milk should be warm, not hot, because... Honey loses its healing properties when exposed to strong heating and boiling.

It is not recommended to give this drink to children under one and a half years old. And for older children, you can reduce the dose of honey. It is better to drink the prepared drink at night, because it also has a calming and mild hypnotic effect.

The effectiveness of this treatment has been proven by many years of experience. What is the secret of its impact? Honey contains many microelements and helps improve immunity. Proteins are needed to produce antibodies against viruses. And milk proteins are absorbed better than from any other food.

This drink should not be consumed if you are allergic to honey or milk, or for people with lactase deficiency.

The benefits of mare's milk

Mare's milk is widespread in eastern countries as a medicinal dietary product. The popularity of mare's milk is quite high both in Russia and in other countries.

This is a white (with a bluish tint) liquid with a somewhat tart-sweet taste. Mare's milk differs in composition from other types of milk of animal origin: it contains 2 times less lactose and proteins. It contains less fat than cow's milk. But this fat has a lower melting point and smaller fat molecules, making it easily digestible.

Protein contains 2.2 g, carbohydrates - 5.8 g, fat - 1 g in 100 ml of milk.

But the main and important difference between mare’s milk is that it is rich in linolenic, linoleic, and arachidonic acids. These acids inhibit the development of tuberculosis bacteria.

The composition of this milk is close to women's milk, and it is absorbed even faster than women's milk. Therefore, mare's milk can become a natural substitute for human milk and is used in infant formula.

About forty biologically significant components are contained in the milk of mares. These are vitamins (A, E, C, B 1, B 2), microelements (potassium, zinc, sodium, copper, cobalt, iodine, phosphorus, iron, aluminum, calcium, etc.). The calorie content of this milk is 41 kcal. It improves immunity and tissue respiration.

Mare's milk is a healing drink. It helps slow the growth of malignant tumors, improves tissue regeneration and blood circulation, increases male potency, prevents colds, and increases hemoglobin. It improves immunity and tissue respiration, and even slows down the aging of the body.

The results of the product's effects on respiratory diseases are unique. This miracle drink is indicated for tuberculosis, pleurisy (in remission), chronic pneumonia and bronchitis.

The benefit of mare's milk is that an even more valuable medicinal and dietary product, kumiss, is obtained from it through fermentation.

Contraindications for drinking mare's milk are increased acidity of gastric contents and allergies. Many people cannot drink mares’ milk simply because of the specific smell, but this does not cause harm to the body.

The benefits and harms of soy milk

There are many useful natural substitutes for cow's milk. Among the existing types of plant milk, soy milk is closest in taste to cow milk. It contains 0.8 g of protein, 7 g of carbohydrates and 0.3 g of fat; its calorie content is only 34 kcal.

This milk is obtained from soybeans. It has a sweetish, quite pleasant taste and a slight specific smell. You can use it to make tofu cheese, cottage cheese and kefir.

Soy milk contains valuable proteins and amino acids, minerals and vitamins, and a large amount of plant fiber. The content of vitamin E in soy milk is close to the daily requirement for humans, and this vitamin is associated with the body’s anti-cancer protection. Therefore, people who include soy milk in their diet are less likely to suffer from cancer. The content of vitamins B1, B6 and B12 is slightly lower - they improve the function of the nervous system. Soy milk is completely lactose-free, so it is used in infant formula for babies with an allergic reaction to milk of animal origin. Soy milk contains calcium in small quantities, so manufacturers additionally fortify the milk with calcium.

The low calorie content of soy milk allows us to recommend its use for obesity, atherosclerosis, hypertension and coronary artery disease. The easy digestibility of this product makes it possible to use it as a dietary food for peptic ulcers and chronic cholecystitis.

Soy milk is popular and in demand in East Asia, North and South America, southern European countries and some African countries. In Japan and China it is preferred over cow's milk.

And yet, some scientists also point out the negative qualities of this product. Phytic acid contained in soy milk in significant quantities helps magnesium, calcium, zinc and iron interact with each other. And this interferes with the absorption of these minerals.

Soy milk contains phytoestrogens - a plant analogue of female sex hormones. Therefore, drinking soy milk may help menopausal women alleviate menopausal symptoms. However, it is not recommended to consume soy milk for persons with an increased risk of developing hormone-dependent tumors (estrogen dependent). These individuals include people with a family history of prostate cancer and uterine cancer.

Some scientists associate excessive consumption of soy milk with suppression (especially in children) of the endocrine system and the development of thyroid disease.

Despite the fact that soy milk is a very healthy product, its effect on the human body still requires study. Serious debate among scientists about its effect on the body has been going on for many years.

Soy milk: composition, benefits, advantages - video

Benefits of coconut milk

Coconut milk is a white, sweet liquid. It is artificially made from the flesh of the coconut, as opposed to coconut water and coconut juice, which are formed naturally in the cavity of the fruit.

Depending on the manufacturing technology (first or second pressing), it can be very thick or liquid, like white water.

In Thailand, Indonesia, Brunei, Malaysia and the Philippine Islands, dishes made with coconut milk are popular. Europeans also love it; in France it is called Asian cream due to the large amount of fat in the thick milk.

Thick coconut milk is used in the preparation of sauces for meat and fish dishes, desserts and sweets. Liquid – for fruit and non-alcoholic cocktails, soups, added to salads and main courses.

Coconut milk has a rich, delicate taste. It contains vegetable fats and oils - 14.9 g, carbohydrates - 2.7 g, proteins - 1.8 g. Milk contains vitamins B, A, E, ascorbic acid, manganese, copper and iron.

Despite the fat and calorie content of coconut milk (150-200 kcal per 100 g), its fatty acids and oils are well absorbed and do not contribute to weight gain. That is why nutritionists recommend it to obese patients. The drink causes quick saturation; one glass of milk is enough to provide the body with nutrients. And its pleasant taste makes it easy to include coconut milk in the diet of any patient.

Coconut milk is recommended to be consumed for vitamin deficiency and chronic fatigue, to improve immunity, for nervous disorders and depression. It improves memory and concentration. Lauric acid contained in milk has an antiviral effect.

Coconut milk, when consumed regularly, reduces the development of cardiovascular diseases; it does not contain cholesterol.

Enzymes and plant fiber from coconut milk improve digestion. It is digested better than cow's milk. And its antibacterial effect restores normal intestinal microflora and improves the healing of gastrointestinal ulcers. It is recommended to drink for gastritis and Crohn's disease.

Due to the manganese content in milk, the drink helps normalize blood sugar levels. The presence of antioxidants and magnesium helps reduce inflammation in the joints, relieve muscle tension and joint pain.

Coconut milk provides the body with phosphates, so necessary for bones. The calcium content of coconut milk is significantly higher than that of cow, goat or almond milk.

The optimal level of vitamin C in the drink is involved in the prevention of colds, and the high concentration of iron increases hemoglobin.

It is recommended to use the drink for urological problems.

If you are allergic to the animal protein of cow's milk, it can be successfully replaced with coconut milk. It does not cause allergies and can be consumed by children.

Coconut milk is also successfully used in cosmetology: it improves skin tone, moisturizes it, and improves hair condition. Milk also helps with psoriasis, eczema, and stretch marks.

There is currently no known harm from drinking coconut milk. This nutritious drink can undoubtedly have a significant positive impact on your health.

Coconut milk can only be harmful to people with fructose or coconut intolerance. The potential harm lies not even in the milk itself, but in preservatives and stabilizers. For example, guar gum is difficult to digest and toxic to the body, and is often added to milk preservation. Therefore, it is better to purchase natural coconut milk rather than canned milk, although it has a shorter shelf life.

Conclusion

Summarizing all of the above about different types of milk of animal and plant origin, we can conclude that milk is a nutritious and important drink for health. However, one cannot ignore its negative impact on the body. Every person has the right to choose, weighing for himself all the pros and cons in relation to this product, beloved by many. Before use, you should consult a specialist.

It is believed that drinking a lot of cow's (or goat's) milk is only possible if you are absolutely healthy. This is wrong. Excess lactose is unpleasant for a person of any age. But the quantities did not harm when fighting insomnia. All thanks to phenylalanine amino acids, which have a sedative effect on the nervous system. Warm milk with honey an hour before bedtime will help you calm down and fall asleep.

Despite the identical name, mother's milk, which supports the baby, and animal milk differ in composition.

When fighting, you can also resort to the benefits of milk. Easily digestible immunoglobulin, formed in protein compounds, supports the immune system and activates the suppression of viruses.

Fats contained in milk help to reduce acidity and normalize the microflora of the gastrointestinal tract. But there is no need to be afraid of excess weight if you drink milk frequently. The high content of vitamin B2, which is responsible for intensive metabolism, will help produce useful energy through the breakdown of carbohydrates and excess fat.

Do not forget also about calcium contained in milk of any origin. However, you need to carefully consider the permissible doses of milk when trying to compensate for the lack of calcium in the skeletal system. Because if there is an excess of it, the reverse process of breakdown and removal of calcium from the body can begin.

When used, milk definitely has a positive effect on the body: it soothes, moisturizes, softens and rejuvenates the skin. Milk baths and ointments based on dairy products have been valued for many centuries.

About the dangers of milk

The main enemy of the body in case of excessive consumption of milk is lactose. It causes allergies in many people, because... there are no elements that break it down (enzymes) and the process of removing it is difficult. Once settled, it becomes a “home” for bacteria and the development of inflammation.

Also, milk protein and casein can harm the body, because... They are broken down only by the released acid, the excess of which disrupts the mucous membrane of the gastrointestinal tract.

Pasteurized milk (processed at high temperatures) has almost no beneficial properties and does not contain the required substances.

And the dangers of milk are scientifically proven. The main rule for consuming dairy products is moderation and individual sensitivity.

Whatever harm was attributed to milk. It, they say, “glues the walls of the intestines together,” because of it, “poisonous mucus is formed in the body,” and the fathers who invented separate nutrition did not allow milk to be taken with bread.

Fortunately, all these lumps of dirt did not stick to the lightest drink, since they were thrown by people insignificant in their illiteracy. All arguments against milk were unsubstantiated. The loud scandal was just a desire to become famous, challenging the contradictions of the whole world.

In fact, the unique properties of milk were known back in the time of Hippocrates, and modern science only proves the rightness of the great doctor and seer. And he goes further, creating new healthy products based on milk. At the moment, more than 100 types of dairy drinks have already been prepared.

Milk

Since milk was originally invented by nature for feeding babies, it is easy to guess that it contains all the substances necessary for the body, including immunological protection, and all of them in a balanced and digestible form. And as a result we have the following.

Calcium is best absorbed from milk, so it is recommended to take it for any problems with the skeletal system - from fractures to the prevention of osteoporosis. Milk helps with insomnia.

It expels excess fluid from the body. Hot milk is an indispensable remedy for a cold. Milk is also good for blood formation. And to reduce stomach acidity. It is useful to take for diseases such as cardiovascular failure, atherosclerosis, obesity, bronchial asthma, liver and kidney diseases.

However, milk also has contraindications. If the body does not produce the enzyme lactase, it is simply impossible to drink milk. And it is not necessary. Intestinal diseases accompanied by diarrhea will be aggravated by milk. It is not recommended during operations - for some time before and after. And, of course, if you are allergic to milk.

Fermented milk drinks

Although all of them are prepared from milk, during the fermentation process they develop additional properties that distinguish them from whole milk. The main difference is better digestibility. The fact is that during fermentation, bacteria convert milk protein into more tender flakes that are better digested in the body. By the way, this is why artificially fed infants in Soviet times were prescribed kefir for feeding, which was prepared in special dairy kitchens.

Of course, all lactic acid drinks are prepared in different ways. Lactic acid bacteria, rods or fungi are added to them for fermentation. Some use a combination of microorganisms, for example, Varenets is fermented with both bacteria and lactic acid bacillus. But despite this, in general they are not much different from each other. Except for the taste. And the beneficial properties are almost the same, the difference is very small.

The most remarkable healing property of fermented milk drinks is intestinal health. Lactic acid microorganisms create precisely that beneficial microflora that successfully fights pathogenic microorganisms and inhibits their reproduction and development. I remember how one of the oldest gynecologists in the country strongly advised every woman to douche with kefir so as not to get sick. And this makes a lot of sense.

In addition, while many people are allergic to whole milk, I personally have never heard of allergic reactions to lactic acid drinks.

Curdled milk

It was one of the first drinks made from milk. This product is “prepared” by lactic acid streptococci. Curdled milk is good because it is very well absorbed in the body and has antibacterial properties. This drink can be safely called “the head of everything.” Indeed, quite a lot of different drinks have been created based on yogurt.

Mechnikovskaya yogurt is one of the varieties of yogurt. It is considered more medicinal, although, in my opinion, the difference is small; just for the fermentation of Mechnikovskaya, in addition to streptococci, they also use the Bulgarian bacillus. However, in fairness it must be said that it contains more vitamin A and beta-carotene. But also fat!

Ryazhenka

This is another type of yogurt, which is also called “Ukrainian yogurt.” It differs from the usual one in that milk and cream are used for preparation. Their mixture is heated to 95 degrees and fermented with pure cultures of lactic acid streptococcus. Therefore, fermented baked milk is a fattier product and has more calories - 84 kcal per 100 g of product.

Varenets

This type of curdled milk is prepared on the basis of baked milk. Varenets is fermented using streptococci and lactic acid bacillus. The result is a very unique drink that has loyal fans.

Kefir

This is the most common fermented milk drink, which is fermented with special kefir grains. Odes are written about kefir, it is tirelessly researched, revealing new medicinal properties, it is modernized, enriched with useful substances. However, the essence remains the same!

Kefir has complete proteins (like other fermented milk drinks), is very well absorbed, has antibacterial properties, and stimulates the digestive tract. Kefir has a funny contradiction - it has both a laxative and a strengthening effect. Remember! One-day kefir weakens, and three-day kefir strengthens.

Yogurt

A relatively recent invention that has become very popular. In fact, this is also yogurt, which is fermented with a special yogurt starter made from Bulgarian bacillus and a special strain of streptococci. It has almost all the properties of other fermented milk drinks.

Acidophilus

But here the difference will be more significant. In terms of chemical composition and calorie content, acidophilus is similar to kefir. But! The acidophilus bacillus with which this drink is prepared takes root better in the intestines, lives in it longer, which means it will maintain cleanliness and beneficial microflora in the intestines for a longer period than other lactic acid drinks. In addition, acidophilus bacteria themselves produce antibiotic substances in the intestines. In addition, they are resistant to the effects of some antibiotics, such as chloramphenicol, which means that after treatment with such antibiotics, the microflora in the intestines will not change. Moreover, it is acidophilus bacteria that successfully fight fungi, preventing them from becoming active and multiplying.

In general, of most fermented milk drinks, it is acidophilus that has the greatest medicinal properties. But there are not very many regular fans of acidophilus products - it must be that not everyone knows about their medicinal properties.

What are the benefits of dairy products? Since ancient times, milk and dairy products have been famous for their amazing beneficial properties.

Dairy products are used in folk medicine and traditional treatment as an effective remedy for various diseases. There are now hundreds of different dairy products available in stores.

Nutritionists say that dairy products are vital for humans, because they contain proteins, fats, amino acids, and vitamins that are very beneficial to the human body. It is very important that dairy products have a beneficial effect on the intestines, which helps strengthen the immune system and prevent various diseases.

Dairy products are certainly very healthy, but despite this, you need to consume them in moderation and limit your consumption, if you have food allergies, please keep this in mind.

The benefits of milk and dairy products

Cottage cheese, sour cream, butter, feta cheese are those dairy products made from natural milk with beneficial properties and a unique taste. We all eat them every day. Rapid absorption makes dairy products indispensable for baby food. They are also used in the dietary nutrition of adults.

Since milk protein can be easily digested, the benefits of consuming dairy products cannot be overestimated. For example, milk can reduce the symptoms of gastritis by lowering the overall acidity of gastric juice. The diuretic effect of milk is expressed in a decrease in blood pressure, which has a positive effect on the general condition of the body.

The main vitamin of milk, B2, is involved in energy metabolism, converting carbohydrates into energy. In cases of intolerance to certain components of milk, as well as allergies, you should refrain from consuming dairy products. In these conditions, taking dairy products can be harmful, causing itchy skin, redness in the form of a rash, asthma attacks and other unpleasant symptoms.

Types of fermented milk products:

fermented baked milk;
kefir;
curdled milk;
cottage cheese;
Varenets;
serum;
yoghurts.

These are the main types of fermented milk products.

Who are they useful for? For all healthy people, people recovering from illnesses. Since these are dietary products and are easily digestible, they are very useful because they normalize the intestinal microflora, preventing the occurrence of intestinal infections. Kefir has a calming effect and can be used for insomnia and nervous stress.

Harm from the use of fermented milk products can be caused by excessive consumption. For those who have gastritis, kefir can be replaced with Varenets or sweet yogurt. Measures must be taken in everything to avoid unpleasant consequences.

Natural dairy products include cottage cheese, feta cheese, sour cream and all curd products made from milk.

What vitamins are included in fermented milk products?

1) Calcium. All dairy products are record holders for calcium content. It is simply necessary for our bones, for the nervous system, for normal blood clotting. Especially for the growing body of our children, so that the bones develop properly and the teeth are strong.

2) Vitamin A. A very valuable vitamin for immunity, for the beauty of skin, nails, and strengthening vision.

3) Vitamin D. Everyone knows that this vitamin is necessary for the absorption of calcium; dairy products also contain calcium and vitamin D, some foods contain only calcium, so for its good absorption we must also consume foods containing vitamin D.

4) Protein. This is the main element our muscles and bones are made of. The main builder of our body.

5) Vitamin B12. To maintain the health of the nervous system, normalizes blood flow.

6) Potassium. Regulates blood pressure as well as fluid balance.

7) Niacin. This vitamin produces enzymes that convert proteins, fats and carbohydrates into energy. Also good for the nervous system.

Useful properties of cottage cheese

So, cottage cheese, who is it good for? Of course, to all healthy people. And these are children, teenagers and elderly people who do not have serious illnesses. And for those who already have diseases such as hypertension, kidney disease, atherosclerosis, anemia and obesity, a natural dairy product such as cottage cheese simply needs to be urgently introduced into their daily diet.

You will receive detailed recommendations from your nutritionist and therapist. It is best to use low-fat cottage cheese.
Cottage cheese reduces cholesterol levels, which normalizes metabolism, adds calcium to bones, strengthening them, reducing the risk of fractures and restoring cartilage tissue.

Cottage cheese is a wonderful dairy product and should be included in your diet throughout your life. If you always remember that excessive consumption of dairy products can cause disruptions in the digestive system and do not break this rule, then good health and excellent well-being will become your companions for a long time.

Be sure to eat dairy products, they are vital for any person, for immunity, healthy teeth and bones, for normalizing intestinal microflora, they contain a lot of useful substances and vitamins for our health.

All parents encourage their children to drink milk to boost their defenses and improve their mood. Thanks to this, absolutely everyone is familiar with the product. It’s not for nothing that the first thing a child tries is mother’s milk. Today we will talk about the benefits and harms of the drink.

Composition of milk

The product from the cow is rich in macro- and microelements, of which there are more than fifty. The most valuable are the following: sulfur, chlorine, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, potassium and copper.

Calcium is also an important element. It is necessary for people who suffer from osteoporosis and deficiency of this mineral compound in the body. Calcium strengthens bone tissue, teeth and enamel, nails.

The drink contains many vitamins. Let's highlight vitamin PP, retinol, ascorbic acid, tocopherol, pyridoxine, thiamine, riboflavin, vitamin D12, vitamin H.

Amino acids include methionine, lysine, tryptophan and others. All of them must be supplied to the body with food, since not every amino acid can be produced independently.

Calorie content of cow's milk is 52 Kcal, goat's milk is 67 Kcal. These indicators are typical for a drink with a fat content of 2-2.5%. The higher this indicator, the more the energy value rises.

The benefits of milk for the gastrointestinal tract

Patients with diseases of the gastrointestinal tract often refuse to consume dairy products due to their dislike for them. However, such a move is extremely erroneous.
The thing is that milk envelops the mucous membranes of the stomach and protects the internal organ from ulcers. Against this background, gastritis, ulcers and other similar ailments are prevented.
Adults need to take milk to regulate acidity and relieve painful cramps when eating spicy or unhealthy foods.
To ensure that milk is well absorbed and does not lead to indigestion, it should be taken in small sips. In this case, the product must be at room temperature. After removing from the refrigerator, let the drink sit for a while.
Milk contains a lot of B vitamins. This includes folic, pantothenic, nicotinic acids, pyridoxine, riboflavin, thiamine and others. All of them take part in energy, fat, and carbohydrate metabolism. Thanks to this, metabolism is normalized, food stops fermenting in the intestines.
Low-fat natural milk is used to remove cholesterol, accelerate metabolism, and lose weight. If you include the drink in your diet, you can improve the functioning of your esophagus and significantly lose weight.

The benefits of milk for the nervous system

Milk normalizes a person’s psycho-emotional environment. Against this background, anxiety, irritability, insomnia and other ailments of this kind are relieved.
The drink has sedative (calming) properties. Drinking milk is beneficial for men and women who often experience negative reactions.
The product contains many amino acids that normalize human sleep. To do this, just drink warm milk with honey at night, and your worries will subside. This move will also relieve nightmares.
Very often, the milk drink is used to treat headaches and severe migraines, vegetative-vascular dystonia, and hypertension. Similarly, milk is consumed warm in combination with honey.

It is not recommended to drink fresh milk during viral infections, otherwise harmful microflora will begin to develop in the body. Give preference to pasteurized or baked product.
The drink will strengthen the immune system during seasonal colds, and also replenish vitamin deficiency due to vitamin deficiency. It is recommended to give children half a glass of milk; adults are allowed to increase the amount by 3 times.
Research has proven that athletes get sick less often. The thing is that they consume milk, thereby accelerating the production of immunoglobulin. This compound suppresses viral infections.

The benefits and harms of milk for bone tissue and heart

The main properties of the product lie in the fact that it contains a lot of calcium and other useful substances. Scientists have found that calcium improves the structure of bones, teeth, and nail plates. This substance also lowers blood pressure.
However, milk should not be consumed in large quantities by people who have crossed the age threshold of 40 years. When calcium accumulates in the body, it causes blockage of blood channels. All this contributes to the development of osteoporosis and atherosclerosis.
The drink contains a lot of casein. This is a type of protein compound. Casein harms blood vessels and heart muscle. Despite the accumulation of potassium, the entire human circulatory system can be severely damaged.
Experts in the field of healthy nutrition advise consuming milk in the amount of 1.5-2 glasses per day for people under 40 years of age. After this threshold, the amount is reduced to 1 glass per day.

The benefits of milk for pregnant women

If the expectant mother does not have enough calcium while carrying a child, she will soon be faced with crumbling teeth, brittle nails, and depletion of bone tissue. Milk replenishes calcium balance and prevents all of the above problems.
The drink also accelerates the absorption of other beneficial substances obtained from food. Incoming lactose is responsible for carbohydrate balance, transforming saccharides into energy rather than fat.
Milk has a positive effect on the fetus. The skeleton, nervous system, and heart muscle of the child are formed. The iron contained in the composition provides serious prevention of anemia in mother and baby.
Pregnant women often experience toxicosis in the early stages of pregnancy. Milk improves the flow of bile and relieves the urge to vomit.
The product has a laxative effect. Against this background, the digestive tract is cleansed, old stagnation is removed, and constipation is eliminated.
A mild diuretic effect removes excess water, fighting swelling of the limbs and the whole body. Also, internal organs are cleansed of toxic substances and radionuclides.
If you are surprised by heartburn during pregnancy, it is enough to take half a glass of milk at room temperature. More often, such a disease appears in the second half of pregnancy.

It is worth knowing that excessive consumption of animal products leads to the development of cancer cells. British scientists have found that milk contributes to the development of prostate cancer.
The problem is that the drink is oversaturated with a special substance that provokes the active growth of insulin-like factor. Thus, the risk of developing cancer cells increases several times. This phenomenon can be suppressed by eating more red meat.

Harm of milk for women

If we consider all the same studies, it was published that the fair sex, who often consume the product, are most susceptible to the formation of ovarian and breast cancer.
This phenomenon is caused by a high content of galactose - this is the enzyme that breaks down lactose. The body is unable to completely process the substance. Therefore, galactose accumulates as a toxic compound.
There is no direct connection between these factors; the cause may well be reduced immunity. It is also possible to develop uterine cancer due to supersaturated fats. However, modern medicine claims that milk protects against breast cancer.

Harm of milk for children

Since ancient times, cow's milk has been a healthy product in the children's diet. Unfortunately, modern research shows the opposite effect. When consuming milk, the body suffers from a lack of moisture. This develops the risk of diabetes and allergic reactions.
Please note that giving animal milk to children under 2 years of age is not recommended. The benefits of drinking the drink before bed also came into question. The calming effect is achieved thanks to casein. But when the enzyme breaks down, harmful opiates are formed in the body. The substance also predominates in large quantities in cheese.

Many nutritionists recommend including milk in the daily diet for people who want to say goodbye to extra pounds. The composition copes well with the feeling of hunger, saturates the body with calcium and prevents fat deposition.
Linoleic acids in milk are beneficial for your figure. Based on the data obtained, there are currently several special diets. To achieve maximum results from the drink, you can add spices in the form of turmeric and cinnamon.
Do not forget that milk in combination with a banana is most often drunk by men to build muscle mass. For women, such a cocktail will contribute to excess weight gain. The drink also provokes a sharp jump in blood sugar levels, often leading to obesity.

Harm of milk during lactation and pregnancy

If you adhere to official data, you need to consume up to 1 liter of milk daily. In this case, a pregnant girl will be able to replenish her daily calcium requirement. More detailed studies to date have found that excessive consumption of the product produces mucus in the body.
From this, experts concluded that milk lovers can expose their child to the development of bronchitis, sinusitis, tonsillitis, joint and kidney disease. Accumulated mucus is harmful regardless of age. Often such accumulation leads to the formation of pneumonia.
Traditional medicine, on the contrary, claims that with the help of milk you can get rid of mucus in the lungs. Some women who drank milk before pregnancy in rare cases develop intolerance to the product. It is a mistake to believe that animal milk increases lactation.
Consumption of a paired product leads to a deterioration in the quality of milk during lactation. The process occurs due to the presence of estrogen. There is nothing wrong with this; the substance is destroyed some time after milking the animal. Remember, milk is one of the most allergenic foods.
Be careful when consuming milk, follow the daily intake. If you have any abnormalities in your child, immediately stop taking the animal composition. Therefore, to replenish your daily calcium intake, pay attention to other foods. Eat more almonds, sesame seeds and cauliflower.

Milk is valuable for the body due to the accumulation of calcium. Benefits are observed for the nervous system, digestion, heart muscle, and immunity. Pregnant girls should consume the product in moderation. But before any manipulation, study the harm so as not to encounter negative consequences.