Is it beneficial for the elderly to drink pure milk?
The bodily functions of older adults are in a state of decline, and they are constantly losing calcium in their bodies. Drinking pure milk helps them replenish the nutrients their bodies need. Not only does it lubricate the intestines and promote bowel movements, but it also nourishes the spleen and replenishes qi. For older adults, it is the best tonic. However, milk should not be consumed with many other foods as it can affect the gastrointestinal system and potentially harm health if not consumed properly. This article provides a comprehensive introduction to the types of milk suitable for older adults and the dietary restrictions they should adhere to.
Is it good for older adults to drink pure milk regularly? Milk is considered the best longevity food for older adults. It contains all the essential nutrients the human body needs, and the quality and composition of these nutrients are very suitable for the body, especially for older adults. Milk has a high absorption and utilization rate, making it an economical and safe nutritional health food. Every older adult is calcium-deficient, and the best way to replenish calcium is through dietary intake. Drinking fresh milk is the best way to do this. Due to the lack of physical labor and the presence of osteoporosis, drinking milk can effectively replenish calcium in older adults. Additionally, exposure to sunlight can help the body produce vitamin D, which effectively promotes calcium absorption.
Older adults can also choose yogurt made through lactic acid fermentation. Yogurt is easier to digest and absorb due to the fermentation process, which makes the fatty acids and calcium more accessible. Long-term consumption of yogurt can help lower serum cholesterol, prevent constipation in middle-aged and elderly adults, and improve immune function and cancer resistance. The recommended time to consume yogurt is about 1-2 hours after a meal.
However, excessive intake of casein and lactose in milk can have adverse effects on the body and may even lead to cataracts. Therefore, it is recommended that middle-aged and elderly adults consume about 250 grams of milk per day and not exceed this amount. For those who are allergic to milk, calcium can be replenished through foods such as shrimp, fish, shellfish, and soy products.
When choosing milk for older adults, there are several options to consider:
Many people frown upon the fat content in milk and avoid whole milk, thinking that it will lead to weight gain. However, the rich aroma and creamy texture of milk come from its fat content. Vitamins A, D, E, and K in milk are also present in the fat. The conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), butyric acid, and sphingomyelin in fat have health-promoting and anticancer effects. Studies have shown that people who consume more whole milk are less likely to develop cancer. Whole milk retains most of the nutrients in milk, including fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K, as well as natural calcium, which is beneficial for calcium absorption in the body.
Middle-aged and elderly adults are suitable for choosing low-fat or skim milk with lower fat content. This is due to the presence of abnormal lipid metabolism in some individuals. Additionally, the high fat content in whole milk may affect calcium absorption. While milk fat contributes to its rich and creamy texture, low-fat or skim milk may have a thinner and less flavorful consistency. The recommendation for older adults to consume skim milk is mainly to limit energy intake. In some countries, people often consume milk as a beverage, leading to excessive intake and increased fat consumption, resulting in energy surplus. Therefore, skim milk is a suitable choice for individuals who need to limit their fat and cholesterol intake, such as those with high blood lipids or atherosclerosis.
Studies have found that individuals who consume low-fat milk or milk products at least once daily have a 37% lower risk of renal dysfunction related to heart disease. Additionally, the protein, vitamin D, and magnesium in milk are beneficial for heart health. Scientists have discovered that consuming at least four cups of low-fat milk daily can reduce the risk of heart disease. However, not all dairy products are beneficial for heart health. Those with higher fat content, such as whole milk, can increase cholesterol levels in the body. Beneficial dairy products refer to those with a fat content of 2% or less, while whole milk typically contains about 4% fat. Furthermore, individuals who consume four cups of dairy products daily have a 40% to 60% lower risk of becoming obese.
