DRINKING MILK CAN HELP YOU LOSE WEIGHT!
A growing body of research shows that when cutting calories to lose weight, including three servings of lowfat milk, cheese or yogurt each day helps people burn more fat and lose more weight than just cutting calories alone. The mix of nutrients found in dairy foods, especially calcium, may be responsible for helping the body break down and burn fat.
For more information about the exciting connection between milk and weight loss, visit the 24/24 Milk web site.
And making sure you and your family get proper nutrition and plenty of exercise will help you successfully face the everyday challenges that come your way. A healthy diet combines a variety of foods including whole grains, fruits and vegetables, protein and dairy products. Good health starts with dairy. Whether you’re 2, 14, or 30, you should strive to eat three servings of dairy foods each day. In addition to helping you achieve and maintain a healthy weight, research has shown that eating lowfat dairy foods can help reduce your risk of high blood pressure, osteoporosis and certain cancers.
Milk provides a powerful nutrient package of calcium plus eight key nutrients that fuel your body, not just your bones. Milk is one of the best sources of calcium because it also provides vitamin D, which helps the body absorb calcium. Milk is also an excellent source of riboflavin and phosphorus, and a good source of potassium, vitamin A, vitamin B12, niacin and muscle-building protein.
The best diet includes a variety of great-tasting, healthy foods, balanced with physical activity. Activities such as walking, running and lifting heavy objects not only help you stay in shape but they also keep your muscles toned and strong. And don’t forget to stretch! For every bit of time you sit at your school or office desk, in front of the TV or even doing homework, try to get in a good amount of exercise and stretching to keep your muscles warm and active. Of course, every body is different so we recommend you consult with your family physician before undertaking a new diet or exercise program.
For more information on achieving optimal health and wellness, read some recent articles from the Hood Nutritionist, check out our list of Helpful Links or visit the Hood Answer Mom.
ABOUT THE HOOD NUTRITIONIST
Elizabeth M. Ward, M.S., R.D., is a freelance writer and nutrition consultant. She is the author of Expect The Best: Your Guide to Healthy Eating Before, During & After Pregnancy (Wiley, 2009); The Pocket Idiot’s Guide to the New Food Pyramids (Alpha Books, 2006); and The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Feeding Your Baby and Toddler (Alpha Books, 2005). Ward writes on a regular basis for several publications including Men’s Fitness and WebMD.com, and is a blogger for USAToday.com. Visit www.ElizabethWardRD.com and www.expectthebestpregnancy.com for more information.