5 Healthy Dairy Products for Your Body

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Dairy products are those derived from or containing the milk of mammals such as cows, sheep, or goats. Humans have long consumed these products for their rich nutritional value.

According to Healthline, dairy products offer an array of essential vitamins, minerals, probiotics, and antioxidants. Calcium, which is good for stronger bones, is one of the essential minerals.

Given these benefits, you should consider adding dairy products to your diet. But which is the best? Citing Well Good, Eating Well, the UK's National Health Service (NHS), and Healthline, here are some of the healthiest dairy options you can choose.

1. Milk

Milk is easily one of the healthiest dairy products you can find. It's even better if the milk comes from cows that are grass-fed or pasture-raised, Healthline points out.

Consuming this dairy product can help you meet your calcium, protein, and vitamin D needs. In addition, Well Good suggests that people with lactose intolerance choose lactose-free milk for their daily intake.

2. Cheese

Like most dairy products, cheese is packed with calcium and protein. In addition, this dairy product is particularly high in fat and low in carbohydrates.

Eating Well, citing the USDA, explains that you can get about 10 percent of your daily value of calcium, 4 grams of protein, and 5 grams of calcium from a slice of cheddar cheese.

While cheese can still be part of a healthy diet, the NHS suggests you eat it in moderation, as cheese can be high in saturated fat and salt.

3. Yogurt

You can add fermented dairy products like yogurt to your diet to improve your health. Healthline notes that yogurt, in general, carries probiotics that are beneficial in maintaining your digestive system.

It is important to note that plain or Greek yogurt is one of the best choices. In addition, according to Well Good, you may want to choose minimally processed dairy products—in this case, yogurt—without any added sugars or additives.

4. Kefir

Kefir is basically the Tangier version of yogurt. It also differs in that kefir has a thinner consistency, making it more of a drink than a snack.

In addition to probiotics, this dairy product is also a good source of protein, calcium, and vitamin D. Even better, kefir is lactose-friendly because the product contains only a small amount of lactose, according to Eating Well.

5. Cottage cheese

Last but not least, cottage cheese is another great dairy for your body. The dairy product is easy to digest and, more importantly, is high in protein and low in calories.

According to Healthline, cottage cheese is especially popular among athletes and fitness enthusiasts. The protein content is said to promote muscle growth and recovery. Not to mention, this dairy product can also help you lose weight!

Incorporating these top five healthiest dairy products into your diet can provide a range of health benefits, from improved digestion to stronger bones. These nutrient-rich foods can also help you establish a healthier eating routine.

Healthline | Well Good | Eating Well

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