Drinking milk is a great way to fulfill day-to-day dietary requirements, thanks to its rich nutrient profile and high calcium content. Dairy foods, such as milk, yogurt and cheese, are the main food source of calcium for most people in the U.S.
The National Institute of Health recommends a daily dietary allowance of 1000 mg for adults under 50, and 1200 mg for older adults.
One cup of milk provides around 300 mg calcium. Calcium-fortified milks can provide larger amounts of calcium in a smaller volume of milk - ranging from 280 mg to 400 mg per 200 ml milk.
Low-fat milk contains 1% fat as opposed to the 3.25% fat of whole milk. Low-fat milk has a higher calcium content by weight than whole milk. An 8-ounce cup meets 29% of daily value of calcium.
Calcium is a mineral most often associated with healthy bones and teeth, although it also plays an important role in:
*Clotting blood
*Nerve function
*Regulating normal heart rhythms
*Supporting healthy blood pressure
*Maintaining heart health
Calcium deficiency may lead to disorders like osteoporosis, a disease in which bones become fragile and brittle later in life. Osteoporosis affects both men and women.
Calcium in milk
