Dr. Suat Gunsel University of Kyrenia Hospital Paediatrician Seyhan Erişir Oyguncu MD. stated that milk is a food product that has a high nutritional value and children must consume milk during growth. Oyguncu MD. also explained that the food products which provide the essential needs of the body must be obtained through a balanced diet.

Seyhan Erişir Oyguncu MD. expressed that since 1991, the 21st of May has been celebrated as the ‘’Milk Day’’ in our country and some other countries, whereas the 1st of June has been determined as “ World Milk Day” in 2001 by the Food and Agricultural Organisation of the United Nations to underline the importance of milk in a diet.

Oyguncu MD. stated that: “Protein, vitamins and minerals that milk contains are essential nutrients that the body needs . Babies should be breastfed for the first 6 months but once they start to consume solid foods they must be given dairy products such as; yoghurt, cheese, butter etc. in order to support their growth and also children over 1 year old must start to drink milk.

MILK CONTAIN PROTEINS AND VITAMINS THAT STRENGTHEN THE IMMUNE SYSTEM

One big cup of milk (250 ml) contains 8 grams of protein, 146 calories, 8 grams of fat and 13 grams of carbohydrates. Protein plays an important role in the development and regeneration of cells and tissues, hair and nails. The high amount of calcium (185 mg in one cup of milk) and magnesium helps the development of bones and teeth as well as preventing osteoporosis and contributing to the development of the brain functions, neural transmission and muscles. Milk also helps to protect the bone and the dental health of pregnant or breastfeeding mothers. With the help of the proteins and vitamins it contains (vitamins A, B1, B2, B12, D) milk strengthens the immune system. Milk is also rich in magnesium and potassium which helps to expand the vessels and lower the blood pressure. The choline that it contains improves sleep, muscle movement, learning and memory. Choline also helps with the continuity of the plasma membrane, neural transmissions and prevention of chronic inflammation.
Due to all these reasons, milk and milk products must be consumed in every stage of life to ensure a healthy lifestyle.’’