Terri Ramsey Beavers The dairy-free market is growing. Fridges and freezers are now stocked with soy, almond, coconut, oat, and other milk alternatives. Available products include coffee creamer, ice cream, yogurt, cheese, among others.
What’s the cause of this dairy-free trend?
Many people are concerned about dairy consumption and its link to potential health risks. However, including dairy in the diet can be vital in supporting the immune system. Keep reading to learn about different types of dairy and their health benefits!
Health Concerns
Primary health concerns related to dairy are related to dairy’s fat content. Certain dairy types, such as cheeses, ice cream, and whole milk have a higher saturated fat content.
Consuming too much saturated fat raises cholesterol levels and increases the risk of heart disease.
The key to reducing saturated fat consumption is by eating the recommended amount of dairy and picking the right dairy products. Most individuals need 2 to 3 cups of dairy each day.
When buying dairy products, prioritize low-fat, and skim milk varieties.
Health Benefits: Calcium
One of the beneficial dairy ingredients is calcium.
Calcium is an essential mineral that contributes to strong teeth and bones. Bones support the body and allow individuals to engage in physical activity, which is important for staying healthy. Strong bones also protect the organs from injury.
Strong bones contribute to strong bone marrow, which is the tissue inside the bones that produces blood cells.
Blood also plays a vital role in the immune system. Blood supplies the body with oxygen and nutrients, while simultaneously ridding the body of waste. Certain blood cells are designed to fight infection or help repair cuts and wounds.
This is another reason the body needs calcium.
Calcium promotes strong muscles and facilitates their movement, including the muscles that pump blood throughout the body.
Probiotics
Probiotics are live bacteria that exist in the body or can be consumed in foods like yogurt.
Probiotics help the body maintain a healthy bacterial community. These bacteria may boost certain immune cells, such as T Cells. T Cells are important for immune system communication, as well as killing infected cells.
Probiotics have also been beneficial in preventing digestive infections.
Protein
Other dairy ingredients that promote immune health are protein.
Protein helps fuel the immune response, and aids in tissue repair as well as fighting infection. Proteins are comprised of smaller compounds called amino acids. Amino acids contribute to the creation and activation of immune cells.
Recommended Types of Dairy
Calcium, probiotics, and protein are just a few of the ingredients in dairy that can benefit the immune system. But what are the best sources of dairy?
The best dairy sources will have lower fat content, without a decrease in calcium and other nutrients. Similarly, some dairy products will be high in sodium and added sugars, too much of which can be harmful.
These nutrients are also acquired through lactose or dairy-free alternatives.
If you need help determining dairy made of the highest quality ingredients, visit www.ingredia-usa.com.
Help Your Immune Health
As you can see, dairy is a crucial part of the diet because it provides essential nutrients. There are many types of dairy available, so find the one you enjoy most and boost your immune health!
For further advice regarding health and wellness, be sure to check out the rest of our site!