Top 10 Health Benefits of Milk

9. Natural Antacid

Drinking milk daily can help keep your digestive system on track. . The vitamin A in milk supports the function of the digestive system functioning. It produces retinoids and certain types of retinoids like retinoic acid help control digestive tract inflammation.

Plus, the vitamin D in milk promotes the growth of new cells. Plus, it helps control the levels of calcium in your system; calcium is required by the nerve cells to transmit signals and regulate digestion.

Also, milk works as an excellent antacid by neutralizing the digestive acids in the stomach, in turn reducing heartburn and preventing inflammation in the digestive tract.
 
For overall digestive health, it is recommended to drink pasteurized milk, preferably cold. While milk is good for many, it may cause problems like flatulence, diarrhea and abdominal pain in people with lactose intolerance. In such cases, consuming over-the-counter lactase supplements is one of the best options to enjoy the benefits of milk.

10. Reduces Cancer Risk

Several studies reveal that milk reduces the risk of cancer in both men and women. The high amount of calcium, vitamin D and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) in milk is known to have anti-cancer benefits.

A study conducted by the scientists at the University of Otago found that regular consumption of school milk reduced the risk of bowel cancer by 30 percent among people who drank it daily while at school.

Milk also reduces the risk of colorectal, breast and colon cancer. Some studies have suggested that low-fat milk may reduce the risk of ovarian cancer, but this risk reduction has not been found in all studies.
 
In fact, in a study published in the Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition, researchers found milk consumption to have increased the risk of prostate cancer in Western countries.

To enjoy the various health benefits of milk, you can drink milk as well as include milk products like cheese, yogurt, butter, cottage cheese and flavored milk in your diet. If you are lactose intolerant though, you can try lactose supplements to reap similar benefits.