From the creamy taste of fresh milk to the flavours of cheese, yoghurt’s delight, and the satisfying indulgence of ice cream, dairy offers a sensory experience enjoyed by many people and encompasses a variety of delicious and nutritious foods derived from milk.
Dairy products are a cornerstone of many diets and more than just a delicious addition to our meals. It’s a source of essential nutrients and has long been recognised as a key player in bone health.
Dairy products contain calcium, protein, vitamin D and potassium, which are good for your health. However, dairy milk is also high in saturated fat and cholesterol and for some, dairy products can unfortunately trigger digestive discomfort due to a condition known as lactose intolerance.
Therefore, Health for Mzansi shares a few articles where we delve into the world of dairy, exploring both its health benefits and the possible challenges, as well as dairy alternatives.
Plant-based milk vs dairy: Best of both worlds
Being one of the most popular and versatile dairy products in South Africa, dairy milk is an important source of calcium, protein, and other nutrients.
However, with the rise of plant-based diets and people becoming more conscious about the environment and their health, plant-based milk has become a trending alternative as a healthier and more ethical choice. One of the main reasons people choose plant-based milk alternatives is due to concerns about animal welfare and environmental sustainability.
Love yoghurt? Here’s what it means for your health
Research has shown that women who regularly consume yoghurt tend to make many “other” healthier eating choices, suggesting that eating yoghurt is a gateway to a better quality diet and a more optimal lifestyle.
“There’s an array of research that shows that the healthy bacteria, called probiotics, in fermented foods like yoghurt, improve the community of microbes in the gut, known as the gut microbiota,” says dietitian Maretha Vermaak.
A dairy-free society? Whateva’, says SA Feedlot!
Go dairy-free. This was a plea of the Veganuary movement which was asking South Africans to choose a plant-based diet. This, the organisers say, will help to create a kinder, more sustainable world.
However, it is not that easy to say “let’s just go dairy-free” and do proper research first into the contribution of the dairy industry, says an expert in the agriculture sector.
Can oily fish, cherries or warm milk help you sleep?
Research conducted in the 1970s suggested that a glass of warm milk before bed could improve sleep quality. This research was performed on a very small group, however, and little research has been done since. Drinking milk does increase melatonin levels, which could help. But there isn’t enough evidence to support the claim that a glass of warm milk makes you nod off.
This insightful article busts some myths about foods that can assist in good sleep, and explores ways to establish a healthy sleep routine.
Why you need to prioritise bone health
Much like doing regular maintenance in your house, it is important to keep up the framework of your body – your bones. Our bones support us and allow us to move. They protect our brain, heart and other organs from injury. Calcium, found in dairy products, can aid in building strong and healthy bones. Other foods that are good for healthy bones include fish, red meat, and liver.
This article looks at the risk factors known to be associated with poor bone health, such as preventable injuries and osteoporosis, and the best nutrition to maintain healthy bones.
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