Cow milk forms the basis of all types of dairy products. People have been drinking it since 6,000-8,000 BC. Earlier, milk and other dairy products were consumed only by the wealthy people. However, with time, it came to be within reach of the poor people as well. In the beginning of 5th century A.D, the milk of both sheep and cow came to be prized. It was in 14th century that cow’s milk began to be more popular than the sheep. In the early part of the 17th century, dairy cows were brought into America from Europe. Milk is rich in a number of nutrients, which make it a highly health beneficial food. We bring you the health benefits of cow’s milk, in the lines below.
Health Benefits Of Drinking Cow’s Milk
- Cow’s milk is highly rich in calcium content. Calcium is essential for the growth and development of bones. It joins with phosphorous to form calcium phosphate, which is an integral element of hydroxyapatite, which in turn provides structure and strength to the bones.
- The calcium present in cow’s milk has several other advantages as well. It helps in protecting the colon cells from the chemicals that cause cancer. It is preventive against the migraine headaches and also reduces the PMS symptoms at the time of the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle.
- Calcium is beneficial in preventing obesity amongst children. It also helps overweight adults to weight, especially around the midsection.
- The calcium present in milk helps in oxidation of body fat and thus, decreases the secretion of parathyroid hormone. Hence, the level of this hormone is maintained at a low rate.
- Calcium is highly beneficial against breast cancer. It also plays an integral role in blood clotting, muscle contraction, blood pressure regulation and cell membrane function.
- Cow’s milk contains the high-quality protein in rich quantity, which is of great importance to the body.
- Milk can prove extremely helpful in fighting against gout, which is a common type of arthritis.
- Cow’s milk contains riboflavin (vitamin B2) and vitamin B12. Both the vitamins are functional in the production of energy for the body. The vitamins are also functional in cardiovascular protection.
- Vitamin B12 plays a significant role in the production of red blood cells. Further, it prevents anemia and helps in the full development of nerve cells. Besides, it boosts the cells to metabolize carbohydrate, fat and protein.
- Cow’s milk contains iodine in rich quantity, which is an integral component of the thyroid hormones triidothyronine and thyroxine.
- The vitamin A present in cow’s milk is necessary for the growth and development of epithelial and mucosal tissues. These tissues protect the body against toxins and invading organisms. Shortage of vitamin A leads to several diseases, like frequent cold, ear infections, rheumatoid arthritis and others.
- One cup of cow’s milk provides 10.8% of the daily body’s need for potassium. Potassium is required for the contraction of muscles, including the heart and is also necessary for nerve transmission.
- Milk, being rich in calcium and potassium, prevents the formation of kidney stones in the body.
- Cow’s milk is generally seen to have allergic reactions in some people. The reactions are seen even if the milk is not consumed in the pure, isolated form. For instance, yogurt is a common allergenic food. The most common allergy symptoms found with the intake of cow’s milk are itching, swelling of lips, throat or tongue; skin rash, nasal congestion and dizziness.
- Milk contains 4.7% lactose, which cannot be digested by many individuals, owing to the lack of the enzyme, lactase.
- In many places, cow is treated with a compound called recombinant bovine growth hormone (rBGh). Some studies have shown that this hormone leads to some health risks, like mastitis, infertility and lameness.
- Cow’s milk can be consumed in a variety of ways. Some of the most widely eaten milk products are yogurt, butter, cheese and ghee.
- Cow’s milk should be boiled before drinking. Boiled milk stays fresh for a longer time in the refrigerator.