“I use dairy products for many reasons, one of which is because research shows that, out of all natural protein sources, milk is nutritionally the best. Milk is an easy way for humans to get many of the important nutrients, like protein, iodine and calcium. In itself, milk isn’t necessary for humans; it’s the components it contains. Milk just happens to be an excellent source of a lot of important nutrients in one package.”
One basic element of nutritionally good food is nutrient density. It’s food that, in addition to energy, provides you with essential nutrients, like vitamins, minerals, fibres, fatty acids, and proteins.
Milk protein is the best natural source of protein, as we can absorb its amino acids nearly completely, and our systems can use them effectively.
Image above: Essential amino acids: leucine, methionine, isoleucine, phenyl alanine, valine, tryptophan, histidine, threonine, lysine
Source: FAO DIAAS protein quality system. Enjoy various protein sources as part of a varied diet and a healthy lifestyle.
Milk protein is especially useful when our bodies go through significant changes, such as in children, when their bones are growing, and in advanced age to keep muscle mass from disappearing. Protein intake should be on your mind during pregnancy as well as if you do a lot of sports or are trying to lose weight.
“It’s great that more and more people are thinking about their diet’s climate impact. Nutrition is something you should always consider when looking at the climate impacts. A diet that meets nutritional requirements – everything in moderation – is an easy and functional rule of thumb.”
In Finland, dietary climate impacts and nutrition were the focus of the government-funded Ruokaminimi project, carried out by the Natural Resources Institute and Finnish Environment Institute. According to the project, there are many ways to have a climate-friendly and nutritious diet. Milk was included in many of the various diet options.
