11 Reasons to Drink Milk on World Milk Day, June 1

Milk is a miraculous food source that contains many nutrients the human body needs daily, such as protein, calcium, healthy fats, potassium and B vitamins. Following a decision taken by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), 1 June has been celebrated as World Milk Day throughout the world since 2001. According to Euromonitor 2018 data, in countries such as Ireland, Finland and England, per capita consumption of drinking milk exceeds 100 litres annually, while in Turkey annual per capita milk consumption remains at 27 litres. Although total milk production in Turkey has nearly doubled over the last 20 years, reaching 22 million tonnes in 2018, only 10 million tonnes of this amount goes to industry. However, from a food security perspective, production and consumption of packaged milk and dairy products need to increase.

11 Reasons to Drink Milk

Milk is an important protein source: 1 litre of milk contains 32 grams of protein. Proteins found in milk play an important role in cell and tissue formation, in the development of hair and nails, contribute significantly to growth and development, and help healthy muscle development and function. It replaces water lost in the body: Milk rehydration, that is, replacing water lost in the body, is composed of a large number of water molecules. It strengthens the immune system: With over 40 nutrients it contains, milk is a natural protector against many conditions such as respiratory tract infections, influenza and common cold, which are frequently seen particularly when the immune system weakens as a result of seasonal changes. It promotes bone development and prevents osteoporosis: Milk is a repository of calcium needed for strengthening bones and maintaining bone health. Consuming 2 glasses of milk daily helps prevent osteoporosis. It protects against heart disease: Milk and dairy products contain many nutrients such as protein, calcium and phosphorus that are effective in lowering blood fats and blood pressure. When used regularly on a daily basis, it plays a protective role against coronary heart disease and helps balance hypertension. It prevents mineral loss during pregnancy: Minerals that decline in mothers' bodies during pregnancy can be replaced with 2 glasses of milk daily. It protects teeth: With its high content of calcium and phosphorus, milk fights microorganisms created by acidic and sugary foods, preventing tooth decay. It improves skin: Thanks to the vitamins and minerals it contains, it protects skin health by reducing the risk of acne and skin inflammation. It prevents weight gain: Milk, which is a food with a high glycemic index, increases the feeling of fullness when consumed 2 glasses daily, preventing excessive weight gain. It provides energy: Among the nutrient groups we need for adequate and balanced nutrition, milk alone contains carbohydrates, protein and fat together, which are effective in energy production. It improves school performance: The B12 vitamin it contains positively affects the nervous system and nerve transmission, increasing children's perception and learning capacity, while zinc and tyrosine positively affect cognitive development, attention, activity, behaviour and motor development.