World Milk Day
In 2001, the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) selected 1st of June as World Milk Day, which highlights the important contributions of the dairy sector to sustainability, economic development, agricultural livelihoods and nutrition.
Dr. Suat Günsel University of Kyrenia Hospital Dietician Asena Mertdağ stated that milk constitutes one of the 4 essential food groups. Mertdağ stressed that milk and dairy products are of great importance for bone health, especially during childhood, pregnancy, breastfeeding and in old age.
The Importance of Milk
Dietician Asena Mertdağ stated that increasing the consumption of milk and milk products is important to ensure adequate and balanced nutrients and energy intake.
Mertdağ stated that “It is obvious that the products in this group are the source of some important minerals, mainly calcium and phosphorus, protein and riboflavin, and some group B vitamins, and it is clear that they are an important food group for public health. In addition to its contribution to growth, development and its effectiveness in differentiation of tissues; Mertdağ noted that it has positive effects on calcium absorption and immune functions, decreases blood pressure and cancer risk, it is effective in controlling body weight and protects against dental cavities.
Dr. Suat Günsel University of Kyrenia Hospital Dietician Asena Mertdağ stated that is the best source of calcium for all age groups. In addition to the role of strengthening the bones in childhood and adolescence, it also reduces the risk of osteoporosis in later ages.
The Importance of Healthy Milk Consumption
Dr. Suat Günsel University of Kyrenia Hospital Dietitian Asena Mertdağ stated that the nutritional elements, especially the vitamins in milk, play an important role in vital functions and that they are very sensitive to many physical and chemical effects such as heat and light. Mertdağ also explained that processed milk and exposure to ultraviolet rays during transportation causing loss of nutrients is an undesirable condition in terms of health. Therefore pasteurized milk and long-life milk (UHT) should be preferred.
How should milk be stored and consumed?
Mertdağ completed the statement with the following suggestions: “Pasteurized milk, known as daily milk, should be stored below 10 ºC until consumption and should be consumed within 2 days. UHT milk is sterilized under technological conditions and can last four months at room temperature, unless they are opened or damaged. Adults should consume 2 servings whereas children, adolescents, pregnant and women after menopause should consume 3-4 servings of milk and dairy products. Instead of soda, drinks and desserts containing sugar, milk, milk products and desserts including milk should be preferred. “