It is typically our first form of food and nutrients. We're born crying out for it...Milk. Milk does a body good. That's what they say at least. Is it true? Well...studies continue to tell us all about the negatives of consuming cow's milk but there are definitely undeniably healthy attributes to the dairy supplement including weight loss.
Milk is submerged with protein.
A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition showed that adults who drank the highest amounts of dairy per day lost more weight than those who consumed less.
The study also showed that higher levels of vitamin D found in the blood were linked to weight loss.
The study included over 300 overweight individuals ranging in age from 40-65. Participants had to fill out questionnaires regarding their daily dairy intake. The dairy section comprised 12 foods, such as low- and regular-fat milk, chocolate milk, low- and regular-fat yogurt, and yellow and white hard cheeses.
"Our study suggests that both higher dairy calcium intake and increased [blood] vitamin D are related to greater diet-induced weight loss," said researcher Danit R. Shahar, of Ben-Gurion University of the Negev in Beer-Sheva, Israel.
The correlation between vitamin D and weight loss was amazing. Prior to the study the overweight individuals all had low levels of vitamin D. Has the study progressed those with the highest levels of vitamin D were the ones with the greatest weigh loss.
"Low vitamin D is associated with weight gain, and raising vitamin D is looking more and more like it is able to help with weight loss," says Vincent Pera, MD, director of the Miriam Hospital Weight Management Program in Providence, R.I
New age dieticians argue that cow's milk is full of herbicides, pesticides, antibiotics and variety of bacteria and viruses.
While others argue that is what homogenization and pasteurization is for. However, those processes are also known to destroy whatever nutrients are left. If you are afraid of the possible risks that may reside in natural dairy products there are several non-dairy alternatives out there.
A liquid that is growing in popularity...Almond Milk. Almond milk is made from the grinding and soaking of almonds. It contains less fat and calories than regular milk. Although, it contains more carbohydrates than regular milk.
Almond milk as an array of nutritional benefits ranging from free of lactose and cholesterol to rich in vitamins A, B and E. It is also said to improve digestion, strengthens the muscular tissues and lowers the risk of cataracts, heart diseases and cancer.
Another great substitute to cow's milk is soy milk. Soy milk is an extract of Soya beans, which are known for their health benefits. Soy milk, like almond milk, is also lactose-free.
Soy milk contains monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats (good fats), which include omega-6 and plant omega-3 fatty acids. Daily consumption of Soy milk can significantly lower cholesterol levels in the blood.
Being low in saturated fat, soy milk is known for its aid in weight loss. The lack of carbohydrates also helps individuals trying to lose weight.
For vegetarians who stay away from milk and eggs, soy milk contains high levels of vitamin B12 that will help boost your energy.
Almond milk and soy milk now come in a variety of flavors making them much more appealing.
You can substitute either for dairy and get the vitamins and minerals you need. Regardless, all three forms of "milk" have proven to show they help in losing weight. You don't have to stick to just one. Switch it up if you want. Just make sure you are getting enough calcium, protein and vitamin D to keep your bones and body healthy and fit.