Exploring Milk's Health Benefits: Should Thais Drink It Daily?
The question of whether milk is beneficial has come to the forefront again, sparking debates among health enthusiasts globally. Milk, long promoted by the iconic “Got Milk?” campaign, has been hailed as a potent source of essential nutrients. However, recent discussions question if consuming milk every day is necessary or beneficial, particularly for Thai residents who have diverse dietary patterns and health profiles.
Milk, particularly cow’s milk, boasts a rich nutrient profile. A single cup of 1% fortified cow’s milk provides significant nutrients such as magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, selenium, and various vitamins including A, B12, D, and E, along with a substantial 310 milligrams of calcium. Calcium is crucial for developing and maintaining healthy bones, especially for growing children, teenagers, and women—a demographic critical in managing osteoporosis, a prevalent concern among older Thai women. Christine Palumbo, a registered dietitian, emphasizes milk’s role in improving bone mineral density apart from supporting hair, teeth, and immune functions (source).