Milk plays a crucial role in our diet, and is the sole nutrition for newborns. Many of us know that milk is rich in CALCIUM, which is vital for building and maintaining strong bones. However, milk also provides many other nutrients, including Vitamin A, Vitamin B12, Iodine, Riboflavin, Potassium, Magnesium, Zinc, and Phosphorus, as well as high-quality proteins and carbohydrates.
You are never too old to gain the rewards of drinking milk and, when fortified, it ensures you get the vitamins and minerals your body needs. If you love drinking milk, the good news is that you are doing your health a great favor!
So, why is it important to enjoy two glasses of fortified milk daily?
✔ Milk Fuels Your Body by providing you with a powerhouse of nutrients important for healthy bones and teeth
✔ Milk Fuels Your Mind by strengthening your mental performance, knowing that it is a source of hydration and, when it is fortified, it offers the essential vitamins and minerals needed to improve brain health and function
✔ Milk Fuels Your Morning by giving you an energy boost during breakfast time and mid-morning snack to keep you up and running between meals
✔ Milk Fuels Your Thirst, as it’s the second best source of rehydration after water!
Moreover, research shows consumption of milk, cheese and yogurt is associated with a reduced risk of heart disease, stroke, and hypertension, as well as type 2 Diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and colorectal cancer. Consumption of dairy has been also linked with a healthy body weight, and has been shown to play an important role in improving physical performance.
DID YOU KNOW?
People in the Middle East still have vitamin D deficiency at a rate of 86%**!
Therefore, it is crucial to choose the right kind of fortified milk for you and your family.
Your suggested milk choices:
For adults
- Semi-skimmed or low fat milk, such as KLIM low fat
- Skimmed or fat-free milk
For children
- Aged 1 to 3: Specialized growing-up milk, such as NIDO 1+ or NAN 3
- Aged 3 to 5: Specialized growing-up milk formula, such as NIDO 3+ or NAN4
- Age 5 and above: NIDO fortified milk
Other types of milk include: soy milk, almond milk, rice milk, and coconut milk. Among these milk alternatives, choose fortified versions whenever possible.
Young or old, it’s never too late to enjoy the goodness of fortified milk. So make sure to always start your day with a glass, and end it on a milky note!
- Maria Baghdoyan, Nutritionist, Nestlé Middle East